C.S Georges Malaika

Breaking down barriers for girls and giving skills and clean water to the community

C.S Georges Malaika, a charity-funded kindergarten, primary and secondary school in Kalebuka, Democratic Republic of the Congo, confronts the cultural biases and systemic barriers obstructing girls' access to education whilst building skills and providing clean water for the community. Dedicated to empowering its 430 students, the school integrates technology and diverse educational strategies within a curriculum fortified by community service and local engagement.

Strategically located in an area with significant socio-economic challenges, the school has established itself as a pivotal entity in promoting gender equity and community development. Its comprehensive approach includes STEM subjects, languages, arts, and vocational training, ensuring that students are not only academically proficient but also equipped with critical life skills.

The school's success is evident in its impact, with 100% of its students passing national exams with an average score of 80%, and all graduating students continuing to higher education. These achievements are complemented by transformative community projects that take place at the Malaika Community Centre, which annually supports over 6,000 individuals with vocational training, health, literacy, and sports programmes. Initiatives like the vocational training programme and the clean water programme, which benefits over 36,000 people annually, show that Malaika does not just educate but also actively enhances the quality of life in the community.

Specifically, the Community Centre’s Nzuri Skills programme equips youth with vital mechanical, electrical, and vocational skills, fostering economic self-sufficiency, while its clean water initiatives, revitalising 31 wells, profoundly enhance community health and wellbeing. These illustrate the school’s steadfast commitment to sustainable development and empowering Kalebuka’s broader community.

Such initiatives have reshaped community perspectives, increasing enrolment rates and promoting gender equity. The school's comprehensive approach therefore enhances academic proficiency and equips students with crucial life skills, preparing them to be proactive leaders in societal development.

Should C.S. Georges Malaika win the World’s Best School Prize for Community Collaboration, the award will be utilised to expand its transformative programmes, reinforcing its mission to empower girls and transform communities in rural DRC by further integrating educational and community service efforts.