Malawi:
Early Grade Reading Activity

Donor: USAID • Timeframe: Aug. 2022 – February 2025

The Malawi Next Generation (NextGen) Early Grade Reading Activity solidified and built on earlier contributions to the implementation of Malawi’s National Reading Program (NRP) towards improving the delivery of high-quality early primary reading instruction in all Malawian primary schools. To achieve this goal, NextGen supported the Ministry of Education (MoE) in strengthening its national reading program. Utilizing a twin-track model, IDP supported interventions to ensure that the broader NextGen project applied an inclusion lens throughout all activities and materials to ensure that all Malawi learners benefit from its intervention while also conducting disability-targeted activities to address this population’s diverse and unique needs. IDP’s technical work was led by IDP’s staff person, Augustine Kanyendula, who served as NextGen’s Senior All Children Learning Specialist.

A group of children are seated in a semi-circle in front of a teacher seated next to a chalkboard.
Photo Credit: Reading for All Malawi

Highlights

  • Developed standards for Resource Centers to promote inclusion.
  • Integrated children with disabilities and inclusion into School Improvement Plans (SIPs).
  • Reviewed and provided recommendations for the national inclusive education policy.
  • Conducted mapping of disability related services and supports within the country.