𝐅𝐀𝐖𝐄𝐌𝐀, 𝐌𝐖𝐅 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞

The Forum for African Women Educationalists in Malawi (FAWEMA), in partnership with the Malawi Washington Foundation (MWF), hosted a reception in Lilongwe on Tuesday to celebrate alumni who completed undergraduate programmes with support from the foundation.

Held at FAWEMA’s secretariat, the event recognised the academic achievements of young women who benefited from the scholarship initiative.

Speaking at the ceremony, FAWEMA Executive Director Mr Wesley Chabwera commended the graduates for overcoming difficult circumstances to achieve academic success. He described them as role models and ambassadors of change for girls and young women in their communities.

“We are happy to be part of your life-changing stories, and we believe that this transformation will inspire other girls,” said Chabwera.

He noted that many beneficiaries joined the programme when difficult socio-economic circumstances put them at risk of dropping out of school. Chabwera urged them to continue making a difference by mentoring and supporting others facing similar challenges.

“You are now empowered and, once you are established, you can consider supporting other girls,” he added.

MWF Board Chairperson Professor Linda Semu, who attended as guest of honour, also applauded the alumni for their resilience and determination in pursuing higher education.

“It gives the foundation great joy to see young women achieving this academic milestone, and it motivates us to continue supporting more girls,” said Professor Semu.

She encouraged them to remain focused and work diligently as they transition into their professional careers.

One beneficiary, Chimwemwe Chithyoka, thanked FAWEMA and MWF for their support, saying the scholarship had transformed their lives.

“Without the support from these institutions, our academic journey would have been nearly impossible. You gave us more than tuition and accommodation—you gave us a future,” she said.

The scholarship programme, implemented through a partnership between FAWEMA and MWF, aims to support vulnerable young women in accessing higher education and empowering them to become leaders and drivers of change in their communities.