From dream to degree: Christopher's educational journey

Sponsored student Christopher Chinsamba writes about his educational journey with Hope4Malawi

My dream during primary school was to be selected to a national secondary school. Among the schools I admired most were Blantyre Secondary School, Dedza Secondary School, and Zomba Catholic Secondary School.

After writing my Primary School Leaving Certificate of Education (PSLCE) examinations, I went on holiday to visit my mother's sister. My aunt had a son who was the same age as me, and we spent a lot of time together. One night, I asked him to show me photographs from his school. Since he was a student at Zomba Catholic Secondary School, he had many pictures of the school.

I was greatly inspired by the magnificent appearance of Zomba Catholic Secondary School. From that moment, I became determined to study there. Unfortunately, I had already completed my PSLCE examinations.

When the examination results were released, I was selected to attend a Community Day Secondary School (CDSS). I was very disappointed because I had hoped for something greater. As a result, I decided to repeat Standard 8. I worked extremely hard in class and dedicated myself to my studies. Fortunately, after sitting for the PSLCE examinations again, I was selected to Zomba Catholic Secondary School. I was overjoyed.

However, my excitement quickly turned into worry when I contacted my brother to find out about the school fees. I was shocked by the amount required. When I informed my parents, they were equally surprised and worried about how they would raise the money. They sold 70% of the maize we had harvested that year, but the proceeds covered only about half of the required expenses.

I began to regret that my selection had become a burden on my family. I even started considering transferring to a CDSS or another school where my parents could afford the fees. Instead of celebrating my achievement of being selected to a prestigious school, I spent my time worrying because I believed it would be impossible for me to attend Zomba Catholic Secondary School despite my good performance.

Making the dream of education come true

A few days later, Mrs. Kanjo, who was then a Standard 1 teacher at my primary school, Mpemba Primary School, came to my home with a message that I should visit the school.

On that day, together with some of my friends, I met representatives from Hope4Malawi. They promised to pay our school fees and provide pocket money throughout our secondary education. Most importantly, they fulfilled that promise.

Focused on a brighter future thanks to amazing support

Throughout my secondary school education, Hope4Malawi provided me with emotional, spiritual, material, and financial support. Because of this support, I performed well in the Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations at the end of secondary school and earned admission to study Social and Economic History at the University of Malawi. After being impressed by my admission to university, Hope4Malawi continued supporting me throughout my tertiary education.

They provided me with financial, emotional, and spiritual support throughout my university studies. I have now completed my final examinations, and if I pass them, it will mark the successful completion of my bachelor's degree. I am deeply grateful for the support I have received from Hope4Malawi from secondary school through university. Without this support, my academic journey would have been extremely difficult.

I would like to extend special thanks to Diana and the late Craig, who sponsored me through Hope4Malawi. The letters I received from my sponsors throughout secondary school and university motivated me to work harder and remain focused on my studies. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Sara and Mark Goodman for their guidance and encouragement throughout my educational journey.

Furthermore, I would like to thank Hope4Development for the opportunities they have given me to work with them as an intern since completing my secondary education. Through my experience with Hope4Development, I have grown in my Christian faith and gained valuable work experience that has contributed significantly to my personal and professional development.

Today, as I stand at the threshold of completing my bachelor's degree, I look back with gratitude and appreciation for everyone who has supported me along the way. Their generosity, encouragement, and belief in my potential have made it possible for me to achieve my educational goals and pursue a brighter future.

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Christopher has now completed his degree, finishing with a GPA of 2.94, and is looking forward to graduating on 26th August this year. 

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Can you help a child in Malawi?

Thanks to the support of our partners, sponsors, fundraisers and volunteers, Hope4Malawi's Youth Development programmes, building projects, resourcing initiatives, and student sponsorships continue to provide life-changing opportunities for children in rural Blantyre.

Contact us for further information on how to get involved.