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Update: Malawi Introduces Draft Primary Life Skills Syllabus as UNIMA Releases ODeL Selection List

Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Photo: UNESCO

Update: Following earlier announcements regarding primary syllabus revisions, Malawi has introduced a draft curriculum for Life Skills, Health, and Well-being Education at the upper primary level, according to UNESCO. Developed by the Malawi Institute of Education with backing from UNESCO and the Royal Norwegian Embassy, the syllabus integrates Life Skills, Physical Education, and Home Economics into a unified learning area. The initiative aims to lower school dropout rates and equip students to navigate challenges including gender-based violence, early pregnancy, mental health concerns, and substance abuse.

In higher education, the University of Malawi (UNIMA) officially released its selection list of successful open, distance, and e-learning (ODeL) candidates for the 2026/2027 academic year, UNIMA reports. The publication allows incoming students to prepare for the upcoming academic session through the university's remote learning programmes.

Additionally, the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has completed the initial phase of its Tracer Study Training Workshop, according to the Council. The exercise received financial support from the World Bank through the Skills for A Vibrant Economy (SAVE) project.

The British Council has also announced a new round of Going Global Partnerships grants aimed at technical and vocational education and training (TVET), according to the British Council. UK-based further education colleges can apply for £25,000 to £30,000 to collaborate with TVET stakeholders in several African nations, including Malawi. The 15-month partnerships will commence in November 2026.

Sources

Malawian Apps

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