Youth Reporters Drive Change at Matiya Primary School

(July 16, 2024) When DRP-trained youth reporters discovered that Matiya Primary School in Zomba, Malawi had only one changing room for 800 girls, they saw an opportunity to make a difference.

The changing room was not only insufficient but also damaged, creating a challenging situation for the students.

The youth reporters took action by interviewing the school's Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) to understand their plans for addressing the issue.

Casten Mwepesa, the chair of the Matiya PTA, acknowledged the problem, stating, "After Chanco Radio reporters engaged us in an interview, we realized one changing room was not enough to cater to 800 girls."

Following the interview, the PTA took immediate steps to repair the damaged changing room, ensuring that the girls at Matiya Primary School have a functional facility. This initiative highlights the impact of youth journalism in bringing community issues to light and driving positive change.