Private primary and secondary schools thinking they can outsmart the system by operating outside the official academic calendar—beware! The Ministry of Education has issued a stern warning to those who dare defy the harmonized schedule. Reports have surfaced that certain secondary schools have jumped the gun, already opening for the first term, in blatant disregard of the set calendar.
In a public announcement issued on September 6, 2024, the Ministry firmly reminded all education stakeholders that the 2024/25 academic year officially kicks off on September 16, 2024, and will run until December 20, 2024.
The Ministry expressed deep concern over the rebellious actions of some private schools, which have prematurely started classes, thereby violating the harmonized schedule.
Dr. Mangani Chilala Katundu, Secretary for Education, made it crystal clear in a strong statement: all public and private schools must comply with the official calendar—no exceptions!
“The Ministry would therefore like to request all schools to follow the 2024/25 Academic calendar or risk revocation of their licences,” Dr. Katundu stated.
The Ministry’s firm stance is a decisive move to uphold uniformity across Malawi’s education sector, safeguarding students, parents, and teachers from unnecessary chaos. This decision has been met with widespread approval, hailed as a crucial step in preserving order and elevating standards within the nation’s schools.
By issuing this strong reminder, the Ministry of Education is doubling down on its commitment to enforce the harmonized academic calendar, ensuring that all institutions stay within the regulated framework and that no school operates outside the established rules.
