A Fresh Start Through Learning: Fanny’s Journey Back to School

Fanny smiling confidently at Nakamba CBE, embracing her second chance at learning

In Mulanje District, many children face barriers that make staying in school difficult. For 14-year-old Fanny, challenges at home forced her to stop attending school while in Standard 5.

Coming from a large family with limited resources, Fanny often struggled to access basic school materials and consistent support for her education. Over time, these challenges affected her confidence and participation in class, eventually leading her to drop out of school during the third term in 2024.

“I wanted to continue learning, but things became very difficult for me,” Fanny explains.

Fanny’s story began to change through the Complementary Basic Education (CBE) programme under the Girls Get Equal (GGE) 2.0 – Realising Rights and Building Resilience project, implemented by CRECCOM with support from NORAD through Plan International Malawi.

The community mother group, trained by the project, identified Fanny as one of the out-of-school learners who could benefit from joining the nearby Nakamba CBE centre, established by the project.

The flexible learning environment provided her with an opportunity to rebuild her confidence and reconnect with education at her own pace.

“I was encouraged to join the CBE classes so I could continue learning and work towards returning to school,” she says. “Now I feel hopeful again.”

She actively participates in class and her performance has been outstanding since she joined.

At the centre, Fanny participates in interactive lessons alongside other learners with similar experiences. With guidance from trained facilitators, she is steadily improving her literacy and numeracy skills while regaining confidence in herself and her future.

“Fanny is one of the most committed learners at the centre,” says CBE facilitator Catherine James. “She actively participates in class and continues to show strong determination to succeed.”

Fanny now dreams of returning fully to formal education and one day becoming a teacher to support other children facing similar challenges.

Her journey reflects the importance of community-based education programmes in creating second chances for vulnerable learners. Through support, encouragement, and safe learning spaces, the CBE programme is helping children like Fanny rediscover hope and continue pursuing their education.