In Malawi, the education system differs from Taiwan, with similarities in the division into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. However, there are age-related distinctions in Malawi. In Malawi, children aged 6-14 are considered primary school students, categorized into Grade 1-8, completing a total of 8 years. Generally, those aged 15-18 are considered secondary school students, spanning Grade 9-12, completing a total of 4 years. After completing secondary education, students can pursue university studies by either passing the national examination or directly applying to universities, completing an additional 4 years.
In Malawi's primary education, the first 4 years are often taught in the local language (Chichewa), transitioning to English for the remaining 4 years to align with national standards. According to government regulations, children must receive eight years of free compulsory education starting at the age of 6. Most primary schools in Malawi are public, with only a few being private, often run by religious organizations.
Upon completing primary school, students have the option to attend secondary school, but they need to bear the expenses themselves, contributing to a lower enrollment rate compared to primary education. During secondary education, Malawian students study subjects such as farming, Bible studies, biology, chemistry, Chichewa, English, geography, life skills, mathematics, physics, social studies, and development. Graduates interested in attending university must pass the Malawi School Certificate of Education examination with excellent grades.
Malawi has six public universities, three public colleges, eleven private universities, and one private college. However, the university enrollment rate is generally low, with only a small percentage of eligible students choosing to pursue higher education. To support university studies, the government recommends locals apply for student loans through the Higher Education Students Loans Grants Board (HESLGB), applicable to public and qualified private universities.
Despite the availability of free primary education, Malawi faces challenges, resulting in high dropout rates at different education levels. Factors include a shortage of teachers, limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and cultural and economic factors discouraging students from continuing their education beyond the compulsory years. The lack of emphasis on post-primary education contributes to lower enrollment rates in secondary and tertiary education. Additionally, socio-economic factors, early marriages, and pregnancies, especially affecting girls, further contribute to the dropout rates in Malawi.
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