Link Education International

Link is a grassroots charity working to transform education across some of the poorest rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa. We have been working in Malawi in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology since 2006, and currently operate in Lilongwe, Dedza, and Mchinji. With our Malawian colleagues, we focus on improving teaching and learning as well as building up life skills and inclusion for the most marginalised. We are proud of our holistic approach, working with all levels of the education system. In 2015 we supported the development of Malawi’s first ever National Education Standards, and we continue to build on this and strengthen capacity with government inspectors and advisors to better support schools. In schools we work with school leaders to provide training and assistance with leadership, management and evidence-based improvement plans. Within communities we raise awareness of education rights and responsibilities, and help parents hold their school accountable for delivering quality education. More than 200,000 community members have participated in school performance assessments, planning meetings, and district conferences. Targeted work with marginalised groups has amplified their voices and advocated for vulnerable children’s needs, ensuring no child is left behind. “It’s like you knew what my child needed. We tried our best to keep this child in school but it’s so difficult. The teachers said they could not do anything for a child like mine. That was devastating because my child loves school, he loves to be among peers and to play despite his disabilities. So, it was very painful to be denied that opportunity. We are happy that he will get the opportunity through this project.” – Mother, Malawi

A good education is life-changing. For children facing multiple barriers to learning, partnership and collaboration are vital. Link connects governments, teachers and communities to find sustainable, local solutions. Together we are strengthening Malawi’s education system and helping more children than ever reach their potential – ensuring no child is left behind.