The Role of NGOs in Advocating for Children’s Rights in Education

It is undeniable that Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) play a significant role in promoting access to education for children in Malawi. Almost always, these NGOs operate in areas and situations where…

The Impacts of User Fees on Education Accessibility

The formal education system in Malawi follows an 8–4–4 structure for primary, secondary and tertiary education levels, respectively. The broader Early Childhood Development (ECD) encompasses the age range of 0-8…

Roadmaps and Goals Beyond Today: Reflections on Ending Child Labour

There is no doubt that the international, regional, and domestic communities agree that child labour is a problem that needs to be addressed. This commitment and unity of thought are…

Understanding the Right to Education in Malawi

In Malawi, and most probably in most African countries, it is a common sight to meet and see children going to school in the morning. Their colourful school uniforms reflect…

Off the record, on point: The art of informal data collection

Introduction A colleague has just defended her work at the University of Bayreuth. In her work, she used several research methods. However, what captured my attention and prompted my thoughts…

More than a 16 days Dose: Rethinking models of addressing gender-based violence

Introduction Gender-based violence (GBV) is a global epidemic that continues to devastate lives, particularly those of women and children. Despite numerous campaigns, policy frameworks, and international initiatives, GBV remains a…

Complementing the child labour legal framework through participatory approaches

In last week’s contribution, it has been established that Ghana’s legal framework accords children enough promise for protection from child labour. However, the fulfilment of this promise is being frustrated…

Child labour laws in Ghana: What’s next?

Child labour situation in Ghana The ILO’s 2020 report on child labour indicates that the sub-Saharan region now has more children in child labour than the rest of the world…

Child Lab(our): A Systematic Model for Addressing Child Labour

Introduction Our daughter became overexcited after receiving the first letter addressed in her name, an invitation to attend a school entrance examination. She has always wanted to receive a letter…

Trading Economy for Public Health? Malawi’s Most Recent Dilemma

Introduction In the complex policymaking landscape, nations often confront a profound dilemma when economically crucial industries collide with public health imperatives.[1] This challenge is exemplified in Malawi’s agro-based economy, where…