BEFIT–Breaking Barriers in Education

BEFIT making learning enjoyable: Vanessa smiles as she focuses on her tablet-based lessons.

Vanessa Mhango, an 9-year-old Standard 2 student at Mwenilondo Primary School in Karonga, has always faced challenges in her learning journey. She is a learner with physical and speech differences, which have made traditional classroom learning difficult.

Holding a pen and writing has been a struggle, and expressing herself verbally was often a challenge. Despite these obstacles, Vanessa’s determination to learn has always been strong.

But thanks to the Building Education Through Innovation and Technology (BEFIT) program, Vanessa’s learning experience has transformed. With a specially designed desk to secure her tablet, she can now engage with interactive, tablet-based lessons that are tailored to her pace and learning needs. For the first time, Vanessa is enjoying school and discovering the joy of learning.

Her teacher, Ellah Mhango, shares, “Vanessa is more confident and focused. The tablet-based lessons allow her to learn independently, and she is progressing every day.”

Vanessa’s aunt, Emily Sichali, adds, “Seeing Vanessa smile while learning is a dream come true. Programs like BEFIT are giving children like her a real chance to reach their potential.”

This story is a reflection of Ulalo’s mission which is empowering children and young people, including those with special needs, to thrive, reach their full learning potential, and positively contribute to society.

The BEFIT program, led by the Government of Malawi, strengthens foundational literacy and numeracy for learners in Standards 1–4 across public primary schools.

By using individualized, self-paced lessons delivered through Android tablets, the program ensures every child can learn in a way that suits them.

Ulalo proudly supports BEFIT in 48 schools across Mzimba North, helping break barriers and make education inclusive for all.