Female students at Mzuzu Prison were thrilled on January 26, 2023 when they received a donation of learning materials, a sewing machine, and two 15-meter-long rolls of cloth for school uniforms.

The donation was made by Stimulus for Transformative Development (STRAD) and Mindset Change for Youth Development (MCYD), and was presented by Casewell Mapanje, who is an Executive Director for MCYD and a former inmate at Mzuzu Prison.

Mapanje served an 8-year jail term for house breaking and theft, but after passing the Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE), he was selected to attend Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST).

He was released on a presidential pardon in 2021 and is now working to support education in prisons.

During the event, Mapanje encouraged inmates to pursue education, stating that it will provide them with skills and opportunities upon release.

STRAD’s Executive Director, Masida Ziba, said the organization’s goal is to increase school enrollment among female inmates, and the donated cloth and sewing machine will help with the creation of uniforms.

Inspector happiness Singini, Mzuzu Prison’s Education Coordinator, thanked the organizations for the donation and said it will promote equality among learners.

One of the female students, Regina Mulwafu, also expressed her gratitude and said the donations will inspire them to do better in their studies.