By Chiyembekezo Kachitsa
In a recent announcement by the Republic of Malawi’s Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, primary and secondary schools across several districts will temporarily suspend classes due to Tropical Storm Jude. The suspension will be in effect from Monday to Thursday, 10th to 13th March 2025.
The affected districts are: Zomba, Mangochi, Machinga, Mulanje, Phalombe, Thyolo, Chiradzulu, Nsanje, Chikwawa, Blantyre, Neno, Mwanza, Dedza, Ntcheu, and Salima.
The decision was taken to prioritize the safety of students and staff as Tropical Storm Jude approaches, which may lead to considerable disruptions. The ministry kindly emphasizes the necessity of safety measures and encourages parents and guardians to ensure their children’s safety during this time.
The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Dr Rachel Chimbwete Phiri stated, “The temporary suspension of classes is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of learners and teachers in these districts. While we anticipate resumption of classes on Friday, 14th March 2025, further communication to confirm resumption will be issued as we monitor the situation with District Councils and schools to resume classes if deemed safe.”
Students residing in boarding schools within the specified districts are encouraged to stay on campus to minimize unnecessary travel.It is recommended that the management of boarding schools take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of students during this time.
With Tropical Storm Jude coming, the education authorities are on high alert to keep students safe. Additional updates will be communicated as the situation evolves.
