In the vicinity of Nkhulambe Primary School, situated near the bustling Nkhulambe trading center in Phalombe district, the close proximity to business activities was posing a series of challenges. The regular passage of numerous business people brought with it an unwelcome atmosphere, with illegal practices such as the sale of marijuana and alcohol occurring in the vicinity. Motorcycles passing by also contributed to noise pollution, disrupting the learning environment for the students.
Furthermore, the school found itself contending with the intrusion of animals, including goats, chickens, and pigs, which were feeding on the flowers around the school premises. Recognizing the pressing need for change, the head teacher for Nkhulambe primary school, Precious Seure along with the school management committee and the parent-teacher association, convened a meeting to address these issues and create a more conducive environment for learning.
Inspired by the Girls Get Equal project's student leaders training by CRECCOM in 2022, students were empowered to identify and address challenges affecting their school.Upon identifying the primary issue of inadequate security due to the constant flow of business people, the student leaders communicated their concerns to the head teacher, who then engaged the parent-teacher association and school management committee. Subsequent meetings involving these stakeholders and parents were instrumental in mobilizing resources for a transformative solution—the construction of a fence around the school.
During the students' holiday period, the community, led by the parents and supported by the school management committee, worked diligently to construct the fence. The committee played a significant role, sourcing sand from the Thana River, molding 20,000 bricks, and even providing firewood for the brick-making process. Additionally, 10 bags of cement were purchased at MK15,000.00 each.
The successful completion of the fence project has ushered in a new era for Nkhulambe Primary School. The school is now shielded from the disruptions that once plagued its environment, fostering an atmosphere conducive to learning. John Mwaonga, a 16-year-old student at the school, attests to the positive change, noting that businesspeople no longer use the school premises as a thoroughfare to Nkhulambe trading center, marking a significant improvement in the overall school environment.