LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s Civil Society Education Coalition (CSEC) is appealing for the rescheduling of mass protested planed on July 10, 2024 arguing that the demonstration will disrupt the 2024 Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examination.
CSEC appeal comes amid concerned citizens’ planed demos against President Lazarus Chakwera’s Tonse Alliance government over social-economic ills since 2020.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, June 28 and signed by CSEC board chairperson and Executive Director Limbani Nsapapo and Benedicto Kondowe respectively observes that, ‘The coalition acknowledges the right of every citizen and group to demonstrate, as protected by Section 38 of the Constitution of Malawi and Article 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Peaceful protests are essential to democracy, allowing citizens to voice their concerns and seek change.”
Reads CSEC statement in part, “However, the planned demonstrations on 10th July 2024 coincide with the Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations, a crucial period for our students. The education sector has already been severely disrupted by pandemics and other challenges. Further disruption now would jeopardize the future of thousands of students who have worked hard for these exams.
“While the right to protest is vital, it must be balanced with other societal needs. The smooth administration of the MSCE exams is essential for our students’ academic and professional futures. Disrupting these exams would have long-lasting negative impacts on our education system and our youth”.
CSEC appeals, “Therefore, we urge the Concerned Citizens of Malawi to reconsider and postpone their demonstrations to a date after the MSCE examinations conclude on 26th July 2024. This would show a commitment to the national interest and the well-being of our students, who represent the future of our country.
“Together, let us ensure that our actions today do not hinder the opportunities and successes of our youth tomorrow. The Concerned Citizens of Malawi, who rally behind the youth and all Malawians at large, have a duty to protect the uninterrupted administration of the MSCE examinations”.
The mass protests’ organisers are yet to respond on the request.
2024 MSCE exams are expected to commerce on July 2 across the country.
