Patience Kavalo
Thokozani Fikson and Dalitso Mataya, youth champions from the Kuyenda Collective, joined hundreds of young leaders at the 2025/2026 pre-budget consultations organised by the National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM). Held at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, the event provided a platform for youth representatives from across Malawi to voice their recommendations on national budget priorities.
The meeting was attended by the Minister of Finance, Honorable Felix Chithyola Banda alongside youth delegates representing various districts and organisations. Key discussions centred on the need for increased funding for education, student research, and youth empowerment initiatives.
Calls for dedicated funding for student research
One of the major concerns raised was the lack of adequate funding for student research. Many students are forced to undertake low-cost research projects due to financial constraints, limiting the potential for impactful and innovative studies. Youth representatives urged the government to establish a dedicated fund for student research, emphasising its importance in driving national development.
Youth advocate Thokozani Fickson calls for increased education financing
Education financing was another key topic, with participants highlighting the severe underfunding of the sector. Thokozani Fikson called for:
- Increased school improvement grants.
- The introduction of a special levy to address infrastructure deficits, improve access to resources, and ensure quality education for all.
In his response, the Minister of Finance acknowledged the critical role of education in national development. He assured attendees that the upcoming budget would prioritise:
- Strengthening the education system, from primary to tertiary levels.
- Modernising the curriculum.
- Improving access to quality learning environments.
- Expanding digital technologies to enhance access to information and digital education systems.
Youth champion Dalitso Mtaya advocates for comprehensive education reforms
Dalitso Mataya, a youth champion from the Kuyenda Collective, urged the government to invest in infrastructure, teacher welfare, and teaching and learning materials.
“These elements are crucial for delivering quality education and ensuring that students are equipped with the skills needed for the future,” said Mtaya.
Minister assures youth of inclusive budget process
In his closing remarks, the Minister assured attendees that youth concerns—ranging from education and empowerment to research and development—would be considered in the national budget.
He also emphasised the importance of youth participation in the budget process, announcing plans to invite young people to contribute to budget presentations in parliament later this year.
NYCOM survey highlights youth priorities
NYCOM presented findings from a youth survey conducted as part of the national budget consultation process. Out of 167 youth contributions, access to education emerged as the second-highest priority, with 83% of participants highlighting its importance.
The event underscored the growing influence of youth voices in shaping national policy and budget priorities. As Malawi moves toward finalising its 2025/2026 budget, the recommendations from this consultation are expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the needs of the country’s young population.