MALAWI: High Illiteracy Levels in Malawi: a Concern for Auxiliary Bishop of Mzuzu
Children presenting gifts to Auxilliary Bishop Nyirenda
Susan Moyo
The Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Mzuzu Rt. Rev. Yohane Suzgo Nyirenda has expressed sadness after noting that Malawi has a high number of people who are not able to read and write. Bishop Nyirenda made the remarks on Sunday 07 January, during the National Epiphany celebration which took place at St Albert the Great Parish in Mzuzu.
Bishop Nyirenda said despite government efforts in providing free primary education the country has a good number of people who uses finger print when signing documents.
“It is my plea to parents and guardians that they send their children to school to build a better Malawi, “he said.
According to statistics from Ministry of Education and Malawi National Commission for UNESCO shows that 27 percent of Malawians are not able to read and write.
Bishop Nyirenda also highlighted the need for children to take part in church roles and activities. He said, “This celebration is critical in the Church because it identifies talents among our children, therefore it is important for us leaders to teach and guide these children with different roles in the church and society”.
Father Joseph Sikwese who represented Pontifical Mission Societies Director at the event echoed bishop’s sentiments.
“We had a colorful celebration, children have demonstrated their capabilities, let’s help these children’s know God and serve at their younger age so that they grow better Christians, “he said.
Speaking on behalf of children, Virginia Longwe, expressed gratitude for taking part in church roles. “Through the homely, we have challenged our parents and guardians to stop abusing us and also to give us space to lead different roles in the church”, she said.
Prior the day, children under St Albert the Great Parish cheered the sick and less privileged people around Mzuzu city as part of the celebration.
Epiphany Sunday was set aside to teach about the role of children in the church and society, praying and for collection of money that helps the needy children across the globe through the Pontifical Missionary Society of the Holy childhood.
The 2024 Epiphany Celebration was held under theme “Go and invite everyone to the Banquet “.
