Update: The 2026 Primary School Leaving Certificate of Education (PSLCE) examinations have started on a positive note across Malawi, with spot checks indicating no major disruptions, according to Nation Online. Over 254,000 Standard Eight learners began sitting for the exams on Monday, representing an increase from last year's 247,958 candidates, Nyasa Times reports. The Malawi National Examinations Board (MANEB) is administering the tests under strict security arrangements in partnership with the Malawi Defence Force and the Malawi Police Service.
In university news, the National Bank of Malawi launched its Mo Excellence scholarship programme for students at the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) and Mzuzu University (Mzuni), according to GazetteOnline. Each selected student receives K1.7 million to cover tuition, accommodation, a laptop, health support, and stationery. Furthermore, the five top performing students at Mzuni received an additional K1 million each. Bank board director Bessie Nyirenda stated that the institution recognises education as key to building the nation.
Meanwhile, LUANAR has partnered with the GRÓ Gender Equality Studies and Training Programme and the Embassy of Iceland to launch a new learning initiative, fundsforNGOs reports. The programme focuses on ending violence through human rights advocacy, combining an online course with an in person workshop in Lilongwe. Upon completing the course, participants can apply for 6,000 United States dollars in seed funding to support the most effective community advocacy project.