Education Minister Msaka Meets EU, US, Japanese delegation to strengthen cooperation in the education sector

Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Bright Msaka, on Wednesday held separate courtesy meetings in Lilongwe with representatives of the European Union, the United States Government and the Government of Japan to strengthen cooperation in the education sector.

During his meeting with European Union Ambassador Daniel Aristi Gaztelumendi, the minister commended the EU for its substantial investment in education, noting that €110 million has been committed, so far. He highlighted curriculum reform, infrastructure development and the integration of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TEVET) as priorities of support.

In discussions with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Jonathan Fischer, Msaka acknowledged American support to the school feeding programme, which he said has improved learner performance and retention. He also appealed for assistance to complete the remaining 17 schools under the Secondary Education Expansion for Development Project (SEED).

Fischer reaffirmed the United States’ continued support, including scholarships and a US$28 million contribution towards the lean season response.

Meeting Japanese Ambassador Naito Yasushi, the minister called for sustained collaboration in STEM education and infrastructure expansion, particularly in view of increased enrolment under free secondary education. He further sought support to elevate Domasi College of Education and Nalikule College of Education to university status.

The Ambassador reaffirmed Japan’s commitment through programmes supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), including infrastructure development, mathematics curriculum enhancement and academic exchanges.