“When a Child Is Given Safety, Food, and Education, Their Future Can Be Completely Transformed”

26 February 2026

Every morning at 6:30, the head teacher of For a Change Primary School opens his office. Even before the school day officially begins, he has already walked around the school grounds, checked that everything is in order, and ensured that the children receive breakfast at 7:00. At 7:30, teaching begins.

But his work goes far beyond schedules and administration.

A Calling to Serve

Before joining this school, he worked in the Malawian public sector and served at four different schools in various roles. When he was asked to become the head teacher of this school, he did not need much time to think about it.

He saw it as an opportunity to serve — to be there for the children under the care of For a Change Foundation.

That spirit of service remains at the heart of his leadership today.

The Impact of Poverty in the Classroom

Poverty leaves deep marks on children’s lives — and this is felt in the classroom.

Some children lack things that even a committed foundation cannot fully compensate for. Others, especially those without sponsorship, do not always feel seen or supported at home. Many students come from vulnerable or broken families where education is not automatically encouraged.

This lack of moral support affects their motivation. If a child does not hear, “You can do this,” at home, it becomes harder to believe it.

And yet — this is exactly where change begins.

Children Who Protect Their School

What touches him most? The children’s pride.

They cherish their school. They protect its name and its property. They feel responsible for it.

He recalls a moment that has stayed with him. Some students saw youths from the village removing light bulbs from a moving vehicle that was transporting electrical equipment for the school. The children noticed and reported it immediately. Action was taken — and all the bulbs were recovered.

“This is the generation we want to nurture,” he later said with pride.

These are children who understand that their school is valuable. That integrity matters. That they are part of something bigger than themselves.

Education Changes a Mindset

The head teacher has witnessed real transformation.

He speaks about a shift in mindset. Children are more motivated. They want to attend school. They want to succeed.

“When a child is given safety, food, and a chance to learn,” he says, “that child is given the opportunity to change his or her future.”

The support of the foundation goes far beyond education alone. School uniforms, clothing, learning materials, and medical care are provided. It brings stability. Dignity. Hope.

Without this support, the school could not function as it does today.

A Community That Believes

The teachers work as if they are answering a calling. This brings responsibility — and a deep motivation to give their very best to the children.

The local community also plays an important role. Parents volunteer by cooking and providing labor. Together with teachers and committee members, they work as one.

There is a shared belief that when these children succeed, they will one day contribute to the development of Kwanjana. That hope unites and sustains everyone.

Looking Ahead

The dream for the coming years is clear:

  • High-quality education

  • God’s Word at the center

  • Technological development, including an ICT classroom

  • Sports such as football, netball, volleyball, and athletics

  • Music, art, and creative subjects

But above all, he emphasizes the importance of role modeling. Teachers must be examples. They must show what a love for learning looks like.

A Personal Word of Gratitude

To everyone reading this — and especially to those who financially support the work — he wants to express his deep gratitude.

“Your support means life for this school. It means perspective. It means that children learn to believe in a better future.”

He closes with thankfulness — for every faithful partner, and above all, with gratitude to God for the strength to continue this work.

“May the Lord abundantly bless you.”