President Mutharika Announces Free Secondary Education from 2026

Malawi’s President Peter Mutharika has announced that his administration will roll out free secondary school education beginning in January 2026.

Speaking during the Mulakho wa Alomwe cultural festival held at Chonde in Mulanje, Mutharika said the new policy is designed to eliminate absenteeism caused by lack of school fees and to empower young Malawians through access to education.

The initiative fulfills one of Mutharika’s key campaign pledges to expand free education beyond the primary level. Once implemented, it is expected to ease the financial strain on thousands of families and open opportunities for students who might otherwise have dropped out due to cost barriers.

Although full details of the program have not yet been disclosed, early indications suggest that the government will assume responsibility for paying tuition fees for all secondary school learners. Analysts believe this could significantly boost enrollment rates and reduce the number of students leaving school prematurely.

However, the announcement has drawn mixed reactions. Critics warn that while free education is a positive step, it could stretch Malawi’s already overburdened education system. Education commentator Phunziro Mvula previously cautioned that removing parental contributions might foster dependency and weaken community participation in school development.

Despite such concerns, the Mutharika administration insists the policy will be implemented as planned. The government views the initiative as a transformative measure that will equip Malawi’s youth with essential skills to contribute meaningfully to national growth.

As Malawi prepares to launch this new phase in its education journey, observers both locally and internationally will be watching to see how effectively the policy is rolled out. Its success will hinge on sustainable funding, efficient management, and a strong commitment to maintaining educational standards.

With this bold step, President Mutharika’s government signals its determination to invest in the country’s future one where every young Malawian has an equal chance to learn, grow, and thrive.