A Dowa-based woman, Mercy Dawe has become a beacon of hope for children after establishing a school that specializes in imparting children with computer basics and skills.
The school, called “Mvera Children Science Centre”, has turned into an instant spot for children who want to experience the unique and dynamic world of technology.
Established three years ago, Dawe has indicated that the school has also turned into a centre of excellence and discovery for children around Mvera Trading Centre located in the east of Dowa district.
“Our school provides a quality experience that inspires and fosters learning in children,” Dawe said.
Despite investing state of the art materials such as modern computers, furniture and other stuff, Dawe has told ProjectM that the school does not charge fees, saying the main goal is to see children excel.
“We only request a small contributory fee from parents just to assist volunteers who train the children because our main goal is to see children exposed to modern technologies,” she said.
Apart from offering computer training, Dawe together with her colleagues also offer a wide range of science enrichment programs and outreach programmes to schools around Mvera for free.
“We also have annual events and competitions where children showcase various science skills they have gained in class,” she added.
Dawe’s exploits through Mvera Children Science Centre, have already caught the attention of the government which through Local Government Minister who is also Member of Parliament for Dowa East, Richard Chimwendo Banda, has promised to offer assistance to boost capabilities of the school.
“I will soon go there officially and appreciate the wonderful job this establishment is offering to our children,” he said.
One of the children, who frequently patronise the school, Kochi Banda has hailed the impact the school has had on him since its establishment.
“Growing up in a rural area, I never thought I would have a chance to use a computer, thanks to this school I now know how to surf on the internet,” he said.
Among others, children at the school are taught computer basics ranging from internet surfing, typing and graphic designing, just to mention a few.
