Atsikana Walani Technical College, located in Lilongwe, Malawi, is transforming the lives of many Malawian young women and refugees by equipping them with skills in traditionally male-dominated fields. The school, established by a local non-governmental organization (NGO) from Germany that has operated in Malawi since 2016, offers courses such as Tailoring and Fashion Designing and Electrical and Solar Installation, among others.
With 80 students evenly divided between Malawians and refugees, the college's mission is to bridge employment gaps for women, especially those from marginalized communities from districts. In addition to technical skills, the school also offers computer literacy and entrepreneurship training to enhance students' economic independence and digital competence in this fast evolving digital world.
The school works closely with the Technical Entrepreneurial and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TEVETA Malawi) to ensure its courses are accredited and aligned with market demands. Plans are underway to introduce additional courses, such as carpentry, interior design and building fabrication, to further expand opportunities and skill-sets for students.
Recognizing the challenges faced by women in technical fields, the college provides mental health support and fosters a strong sense of community among its students. Project Manager Belinda Mzembe emphasized the visible results already achieved with the first cohort, as students display dedication and commitment to their education.
Catherine Phiri, the Tailoring and Fashion Designing Instructor, employs gender-inclusive teaching methods that combine theory and practice. Despite limited resources, her students have already begun creating their own products, demonstrating significant progress in a short period of time. Collaboration among staff further enhances the learning experience, creating a supportive environment.
One student, Ekuso Folomani, studying Electrical and Solar Installation, shared how the school has changed her perspective on gender roles and boosted her confidence. She now believes women can excel in male-dominated fields, inspired by the female lecturers at the college. Additionally, the school also facilitates internships to help students apply their skills in real-world scenarios, with plans to provide startup materials for graduates.
Atsikana Walani Technical College operates with support from local donors, including the Moravian Church in Germany, but welcomes additional contributions to expand its resources and facilities. Currently, the school has two classrooms, workshops, and a clinic under development to address healthcare and mental health needs.
By fostering equality, breaking gender barriers, and empowering women through technical education, Atsikana Walani Technical College is paving the way for brighter futures for its students and the communities they serve.
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