A recent surge in vandalism across secondary schools has prompted (YONECO, in partnership with the Malawi Police Service and local education authorities, to intensify efforts to engage young people in constructive dialogue and promote peaceful ways of resolving grievances.
The initiative comes amid growing concern that the destruction of school infrastructure, including classrooms, desks, windows, and other essential learning materials, is negatively affecting students’ education and placing additional financial strain on already resource-limited institutions. Education stakeholders warn that such acts ultimately disrupt learning and undermine the very future students seek to protect.
Against this backdrop, YONECO and its partners organized an awareness session aimed at sensitizing learners on the social, academic, and economic consequences of vandalism. The session provided a platform for open discussions, encouraging students to reflect on how damaging school property not only affects the institution but also harms fellow learners, teachers, and the wider community.
Facilitators emphasized the importance of dialogue and peaceful engagement, guiding students on appropriate channels for communicating concerns to school management and authorities rather than resorting to violent demonstrations or destructive behavior.
Students were also oriented on their responsibilities to respect school rules and abide by the laws of the country.
School leaders welcomed the intervention, noting that collective action is necessary to protect educational resources.
“Vandalism affects us all. It destroys opportunities and disrupts learning. It’s time we take a stand and protect our community’s resources,” said the school’s Head Teacher during the session.
