Phalombe District Council says it is committed to improving education standards in the district through the construction and rehabilitation of school infrastructure.
District Commissioner Yobu Makina Gama said this on Wednesday during the handover of the site for the construction of a classroom block and library at Carmushka Community Day Secondary School (CDSS).
The K556.5 million project, which will be implemented by Twende Contractors, is expected to be completed within 120 days.
The works will include renovation of a classroom block partly damaged by Cyclone Freddy, construction of a drainage system to prevent flooding, and installation of solar panels to power the new facilities.
Makina Gama said the council is increasing investment in school infrastructure to create more space for learners.
“We are committed to improving education standards in Phalombe. We will continue increasing classroom spaces in both primary and secondary schools to provide a better learning environment for learners,” he said.
He also warned against theft and vandalism at the construction site, saying such acts could affect the quality and lifespan of the project.
“The council will not hesitate to arrest anyone found stealing or vandalising materials at the project site,” said Makina Gama.
Phalombe District Council Chairperson Luka Jeffrey called on residents to take care of the project, saying community support was important for its successful completion.
“Vandalism and theft of construction materials can result in poor workmanship and affect the lifespan of the project. We are therefore asking the community to safeguard this project,” he said.
Member of Parliament for Phalombe North, Feston Chauma, said the project was part of government’s efforts to improve development in the area.
He encouraged parents to support their children’s education and protect girls from early marriages.
“Parents have a responsibility to support their children in school. We must also protect the girl child from early marriages so that our girls can remain in school and complete their education,” said Chauma.
Sub-Traditional Authority Tamani welcomed the development but appealed to government to consider extending electricity to the area.
He also urged parents and traditional leaders to work together in preventing early marriages.
Meanwhile, Twende Contractors representative Sabina Lungu assured the council that the company would complete the work within the agreed 120 days.
The project is expected to ease pressure on existing facilities and improve the learning environment at Carmushka CDSS.
