Site Handover for Construction of Dining Hall and Kitchen at Jalawe CDSS
Ulalo's Executive Director, James Gondwe, stands smiling after the groundbreaking ceremony
Construction of a Dining Hall and Kitchen at Jalawe Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) has officially begun in Mwaziko, Rumphi District.
This milestone was marked by a joyful small ceremony on Tuesday, 22 April 2025, attended by the Ulalo team led by Executive Director James Gondwe, the Consulting Engineer Atusaye Mogha, team from the Construction Company, the School Leadership, and the Community Project Committee.
The Dining Hall is designed with a capacity to accommodate up to 450 students and will serve as a multipurpose facility. In addition to providing a safe and dignified space for meals, the hall will be used for school assemblies, writing national examinations, and hosting meetings and other school functions.
Construction works have now commenced and are expected to run for six months.
Jalawe CDSS currently has 13 teachers (10 males and 3 females) who are dedicated to providing quality education under challenging conditions.
Proposed Jalawe Dinning Hall and Kitchen.
The project is financed with generous support from the International Project Aid.
Speaking at the handover event, Ulalo’s Executive Director James Gondwe emphasized the broader vision of the project:
"At Ulalo, we believe that a conducive learning environment is a key driver for student success. Through the generous support of our funding partner, International Project Aid, we are investing not just in infrastructure, but in the future of every student who walks through the doors of Jalawe CDSS. This Dining Hall and Kitchen will create a space where young people can focus on their learning without the challenges that come from poor facilities."
Traditional Authority Njikula, representing the community leadership, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the initiative:
"This project brings hope to our community. For a long time, our children have learned under difficult circumstances. We are grateful to Ulalo and International Project Aid for recognizing our needs and standing with us. This is a dream come true."
The contractor for the project presents designs during the groundbreaking ceremony.
The Headteacher of Jalawe CDSS, Mr. Benson Chiyombo, also shared his excitement:
"This Dining Hall and Kitchen will change everything for us. It will not only provide a safe place for our students to eat but also a central space for learning and community gatherings. We are committed to supporting the construction and making sure it benefits generations to come."
Beyond the construction itself, the project is envisioned to significantly elevate the learning environment at Jalawe CDSS, contributing to improved education outcomes and community empowerment.
Stay tuned for more updates as the construction progresses! Check out the pictorial of the handover ceremony.
