The Beath Malawi Partnership will head to Africa in June

As part of a long-standing collaboration, the Cowdenbeath contingent will take supplies, equipment and friendship to two partner schools in Mapanga and Njale in late June.  

The Beath Malawi Partnership are making their first trip to the east African country since 2018 - a visit four years ago had to be cancelled due to the pandemic. 

Planned activities for the pupils include attending lessons, trying to learn Chichewa, which is the national language of Malawi, cooking traditional dishes and going on safari near Lake Malawi.

The partnership has seen Beath provide scholarships for pupils to attend secondary school, collect boots and strips for a girls football team and raise cash to help repair school buildings damaged by tropical storms.

The Beath Malawi Partnership catch up over Zoom. (Image: The Beath Malawi Partnership) Retired Beath High teacher Ian Mitchell said: "This is the first time Beath have visited in June / July with previous trips taking place in October when Malawi is normally at its warmest! 

"A new experience weather wise is expected. 

"Plans have been taking shape over the last few months with fundraising ongoing and discussions taking place with the school committees in both Malawian schools."

He thanked Fife Council and the Four Winds Trust for the support they have provided the partnership, which made their first visit in 2016.

Mr Mitchell continued: "The Beath - Malawi link has gone from strength to strength, despite several of the staff members leaving Beath, and frequently has 20 learners attending the weekly meetings. 

"Work on the sustainable development goals has taken place and the group have a greater understanding of the issues facing Malawi in general, and young people in particular. 

"The group have also held Zoom calls with their peers at Njale. 

"Support for scholarship pupils from both our partner schools remains in place - primary education is free in Malawi, secondary education is not, and many struggle with the cost of the fees." 

An update from the girls football league, which the Beath Malawi Partnership helped to set up. (Image: The Beath Malawi Partnership) As well as raising funds to fix the school buildings, the Beath pupils and staff helped set up a girls football tournament in the area around Njale PS. 

He added: "The one thing we can’t provide is a goalscorer for the Njale team!" 

Mr Mitchell went on: "Mapanga has never had an electrical supply, but it has now thanks to the efforts of the group. 

"There have been many changes in staff at both Malawi schools but there will be enough friendly faces to greet the Beath group. 

"They will provide a warm welcome in the warm heart of Africa. 

"In previous trips, we have been well supported by the Beath community in providing clothing for learners at both schools, particularly girls underwear and sports kit." 

If you would like to help, you can hand in donations at Beath HS reception or email Mr Mitchell at ian.mitchell@fife.gov.uk.