Malawi Champions Gender Equality in Education at African Union Summit

By Elywin Chighali Mhango

Secretary for Education, Associate Professor Mangani Chilala Katundu, delivered a compelling address at the 9th High-Level Meeting on Gender Equality in Education, held at the African Union Headquarters. In his remarks, Katundu stressed the urgent need for equitable access to quality education for all, particularly focusing on the persistent challenges faced in achieving gender parity across the continent.

Kicking off his speech, Katundu acknowledged the importance of the dialogue surrounding gender equality in education and welcomed attendees while highlighting the impressive efforts of the African Union’s Continental Education Investment Fund for African Women (AU CIEFFA). He took pride in Malawi’s recent launch of the AfricaEducateHer# Campaign at Buke Primary School in Balaka District—an initiative aimed at promoting girls’ education with support from civil society organizations such as Oxfam, CAMFED, CRECOM, and FAWEMA.

Despite these positive steps, Katundu pointed out that significant gender disparities in education remain, with numerous barriers, particularly impacting girls. He cited daunting issues including poverty, gender-based violence (GBV), and discriminatory practices that contribute to educational inequalities. “Education is a fundamental human right and essential for achieving gender equality,” he stated, referencing both the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

During the dialogue, Katundu called for collective actions from member states to tackle the root causes of gender inequality in education. He proposed various strategies to address GBV and create safe learning environments, emphasizing the need for enhanced guidance and counseling services for victims and greater community engagement, especially with traditional leaders.

He urged all member states to prioritize gender equality in their educational policies and practices, commending countries that have enacted laws against child marriage, which severely limit girls’ educational opportunities. “We must ensure that girls not only stay in school but also succeed academically, becoming empowered decision-makers for the future,” he asserted.

The event also featured numerous stakeholders engaged in discussions aimed at sharing best practices and identifying key challenges in promoting gender equality in education. Among the senior officials attending the continental dialogue was Dr. Levis Eneya, Director of Higher Education in the Ministry of Higher Education, who also contributed to the discussions.