Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Bright Msaka SC, has launched the Gender Transformative Education Manual, a resource aimed at promoting equity, dignity and justice in education and supporting the creation of safe and inclusive learning environments for all learners in Malawi.

Msaka launched the manual on Thursday, 24 September 2026, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Lilongwe during a courtesy meeting with officials from Plan International.

He said the manual is an important resource in the Ministry’s pursuit of an education system where every child, regardless of gender, can learn and reach their full potential.

He said the manual demonstrates the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that every child learns in a safe and inclusive environment while challenging harmful norms that have limited learners’ potential.

Msaka added that despite progress, gender inequality continues to affect educational achievement, with girls facing challenges including early marriage, teenage pregnancy and gender based violence, while boys also face pressures arising from negative perceptions about masculinity.

As such he said these challenges require transformation, not just awareness, adding that the manual provides teachers with practical tools, reflective exercises and strategies to challenge stereotypes and foster safe learning spaces.

He further said the resource aligns with the National Education Sector Investment Plan and Malawi 2063, both of which emphasise gender equality as an important component of sustainable development.

The Plan International delegation was led by the organisation’s Regional Director for the Middle East and Southern Africa, Hajir Nur Maalim the Ministry for what he described as visionary leadership and steps demonstrating accountability towards inclusive, gender-transformative education.

Maalim said Plan International remains committed to supporting the Ministry in implementing gender transformative approaches and, together with its partners, will participate in the rollout and monitoring of the initiative in selected districts.

He pledged the organisation’s support in encouraging other stakeholders to back the adoption of the manual in teacher training, continuing professional development and school leadership, stressing that systemic transformation requires sustained partnership.

The Gender Transformative Education Manual: A Sourcebook for Primary and Secondary Schools was developed as a practical resource to help educators address gender stereotypes and promote more inclusive learning environments.

Its approach reflects the broader understanding of gender-transformative education as an effort to move beyond access and address harmful norms, attitudes and practices within education systems.