Open Day at Katawa Primary

Just like Scotland, schools in Malawi have Open Days and special celebrations.  We were invited to Katawa Primary's "End of Term" Open Day.  Parents, school board members, family and friends of the children were all invited to attend.  It was interesting for us to see this celebration which was held in the Church.  Each class performed; singing a song, reciting a poem, acting out a play or having a debate.  After the entertainment, the Award Ceremony began.  Awards were given for good attendance, punctuality, cleanliness (in school uniform) and helpfulness. These awards were given to pupils in each class; pencils and jotters were presented to the individuals.

Next came the Academic Awards.  Everyone in the class was placed according to their performance and test results.  Pupils were called out in order to receive their gift.  Pupils who were first, second and third were presented with pencils and jotters while everyone else received a pencil. The class position is given right up to the last person in the class eg. 50, 60, even 70.  Can you imagine this happening in Scotland?

Many parents during the ceremony came forward to congratulate their child and give them a big hug and a gift; some received a large bag off Puffs, some a shiny wrapped gift box. A few of the girls in particular, appeared upset, even though they were awarded second, fourth and fifth.  Perhaps the previous session they had performed better.  Here in Malawi competition is seen as being healthy and a motivator to success.  For some of us now, it may seem harsh.  The event lasted around 2 hours 30 mins and I was extremely impressed by how well the pupils sat during this time.