World Connect

Secondary School Science Laboratory Project

Year: 2018

Country: Malawi

Project Status: Funded

Impact Sector: Education

Project Investment: $5,849.92

Project Launch: 7-2-18

Mpalale Community Day Secondary School has an intake of 238 students and the school campus comprises two classroom blocks and a staff room block. The school, however, does not have a laboratory and students only learn the practical aspect of science subjects in a nearby church and only when it is vacant. The laboratory would provide a conducive learning environment for the students. This would benefit not only the students but also teachers and the entire community.

Project Update: 9-17-18

The project is currently on track. The foundation of the building was constructed as were the walls, window frames, and door frames. Construction of the pillars on the veranda of the laboratory was also completed. Current work involves preparing the roofing, plastering, and flooring for the laboratory.

Final Report: 7-31-19

With an investment of $5,849.92, construction of a Secondary School Science Laboratory in Mpalale community was completed within the specified implementation period. A structure including a main hall and two store rooms and a laboratory technician’s office, is being used by students in forms three and four when conducting practical lessons for chemistry, physical science, and biology. This project has reduced the distance students used to travel to access laboratory services, which for some was 10 km away. They now have a structure to conduct practical classes, national examinations preparations, and mock examinations within their campus. Results from the second term of the 2018/2019 academic year show student’s performance improvements in Biology (7% increase), Physics (25% increase), Chemistry (6% increase), and Mathematics (25% increase) which clearly shows the immediate impact of the laboratory on students performance. The project will continue benefiting over 200 students every year for many years to come.