Mary Zimba Finds Hope Through Ulalo Secondary School Bursary

Mary Zimba beams with hope at home, ready to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse

For 14-year-old Mary Zimba from Bale, being selected to attend Rumphi Secondary School was a dream come true. It was an opportunity to access better education, pursue her ambitions, and open doors to a brighter future.

However, what should have been a moment of celebration quickly became a source of worry. Her parents could not afford the tuition and boarding fees, and the dream of secondary education seemed to slip away.

With her future uncertain, relatives suggested she enroll at a community day secondary school closer to home. For most students, this might have been a practical solution, but Mary faces walking challenges, making the journey to and from school exhausting and difficult. The suggestion, though well intentioned, added another obstacle to an already challenging situation.

Everything changed when Mary became a beneficiary of Ulalo’s Kula Secondary School Bursary initiative. The bursary covered her school fees, allowing her to return to Rumphi Secondary School after missing a week of classes due to financial constraints. Mary shared her excitement.

“I feel like a huge weight has been lifted. I can now focus on my studies and work toward my dream of becoming a nurse.” 

Today, Mary studies with renewed focus, knowing that the support she has received ensures her education is uninterrupted and that her potential is being recognized.

Through programs like the Kula Secondary School Bursary under the PATH project, Ulalo is helping children like Mary continue their education, prevent dropouts, and pursue their dreams despite the odds.