The Malawian government has introduced free secondary education in all public secondary schools, abolishing key school related fees from January 1.
According to authorities, the policy aims to improve access to education and support national development.
Free secondary education will significantly advance Malawi’s human capital development as envisioned in Malawi 2063, Secretary for Education, Science and Technology, Dr. Ken Ndala said.
The government has subsequently also announced the removal of several other fees including fees charged by the Malawi National Examination Board (MANEB), the School Development Fund (SDF) and other user fees.
Malawi joins at least 9 African countries with similar policies, including Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Zambia and South Sudan.
A statement released by the Malawian government said it has already released funds to schools ahead of the opening of the second term on Monday, January 5, 2026, with more funds expected by end of the month.
“However, government boarding secondary schools will continue charging boarding fees, while Open Secondary Schools will maintain their prescribed fees, the government statement noted.
Recruitment of more teachers is also planned for the 2026/27 financial year to support the expanded system.
While many Malawians have hailed the new policy, some have raised questions about its sustainability.
Read the statement below:
