Our Programs
Our 2030 Goal:
Improve the Lives of 500,000 Youth
Our work is focused on maximizing the potential of youth.
Improve EDUCATION outcomes through:
Technology
Training
Teachers
Create thriving COMMUNITIES by:
Infrastructure
Transportation
Advocacy
Build a stronger HEALTH ecosystem by improving:
Healthcare
Nutrition
Sanitation
Foster ENTREPRENEURSHIP to promote:
Autonomy
Agriculture
Sustainability
Improving
Education Outcomes
We facilitate improvements in education infrastructure, by:
Promoting digital literacy, including closing the digital divide with EdTech;
Improving student success with better training, from early childhood education through to older students with scholarships and mentorships; and
Developing the number and capacity of teachers throughout Malawi.
Technology
Our EdTech initiatives give students, teachers and schools the necessary tools and resources to promote digital literacy. Teachers can seamlessly incorporate technology into their teaching curricula with laptops, tablets, and computers, and professional development opportunities help teachers become proficient in using technology in their instruction. This approach enhances early-grade learning, promotes digital pedagogy and skills, and creates confident and capable digital citizens - all essential components for success in the 21st century.
“As the headteacher of Enukweni CDSS, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the generous donation of the computer lab… With this resource, you did not just build a computer lab; you have built a future filled with innovation, creativity, and boundless opportunity.”
- Binala Lusale, Headteacher for Enukweni CDSS
Building Education Foundations through Innovation and Technology (BEFIT)
Early-grade learning plays a critical role in shaping a child's future. Ulalo is part of the consortium supporting the BEFIT program’s implementation, an Education Technology (EdTech) initiative being implemented by the Ministry of Education through the Directorate of Open Distance and eLearning (DoDEL) and Directorate of Basic Education (DBE). This initiative is instrumental in helping improve academic achievement among the children of Malawi.
Ulalo supports implementation of the BEFIT program in eight educational districts leveraging technology-enhanced learning to improve foundational literacy and numeracy among early-grade learners (Standards 1-4).
“During our time [as children], there were no such things [as computer tablets to help you learn]. Today our children are benefitting from this technology which is very encouraging, and I am very excited about it!”
- Happy Mhango, School Attendance Committee Member, Wovwe Primary School in the Nyungwe Zone of Karonga District
The Connected Education Program featuring the Internet and Communications Technology for Development (ICT4D) project
Connected Education establishes computer labs in secondary schools to promote ICT literacy, digital learning, and access to eResources.
Our digital literacy program is dedicated to equipping out of school young people with the skills they need to succeed in the digital age. Our static and mobile digital labs and STEM centers offer a dynamic curriculum that prepares students for higher education and the workforce. We provide hands-on training in a variety of digital skills, including computer literacy, coding, and website development. We also encourage innovation and problem-solving, challenging students to use their skills to address real-world challenges through ICT.
Ulalo's ICT4Daims to leverage Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to promote sustainable social and economic development. By bridging the digital divide, ICT4D seeks to empower communities and individuals, by providing access to information, communication tools, and access to reliable and affordable internet connectivity, regardless of where they live. By joining forces with the "Data Must Fall" campaign, ICT4D is reducing the cost of data and increasing connectivity, making the internet more accessible and affordable for all. Mainstreaming ICT4D across all our programs offers opportunities for skill-building and innovation such as to facilitate learning, provide access to educational resources, and support professional development for teachers.
Our 2030 Goal is to provide equitable access to reliable and affordable ICT infrastructure and services to at least 40% of our target communities across Malawi, enabling them to participate fully in the digital economy and reap the benefits of the digital age.
“Team4Tech is proud to partner with Centre for Youth & Development and to support them in their efforts to train teachers and to bring important technology into the classrooms of Malawi. Their important work and track record of success has attracted the attention of our corporate partners here in the United States, and we look forward to future collaborations.”
- Paul Campbell Programme Director, Team4Tech
Training
Ulalo Role Modelling and Career Guidance
Our Role Modelling and Career Guidance Initiative empowers students to reach for the stars! We inspire and motivate students to stay in school, work hard, and achieve their dreams. Our program focuses on STEM subjects and provides role-modeling handbooks and career guidance resources to help students navigate their future career paths. With our support, students can discover their passions and develop the skills they need to succeed in today's rapidly-changing world. Join us in empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators!
Ulalo Leadership and Life Skills
Our initiative is designed to equip young people with the skills and confidence they need to become leaders and make a positive impact on their communities. Through our comprehensive curriculum, we focus on personal leadership skills, building relationships, health and wellness, and creating a positive vision for the future and enabling young people to reach their full potential, pursue excellence in leadership, and make a lasting impact in their community.
Ulalo Exam Prep
Ulalo works hard to ensure student achieve to their fullest potential. With the PSLCE Examinations Improvement Initiative, Ulalo Supports primary school learners with extra tutoring, resources, and exam preparation strategies to boost Primary School Leaving Certificate Examination (PSLCE) performance.
Close to 500 students have received examination preparation training in the last two years.
Ulalo Bursary Program
At Ulalo, we believe that financial constraints should not be a barrier to a child's education. That's why we are dedicated to providing support to primary and secondary school students who may struggle with the costs of schooling. Our Ulalo Bursary Program offers financial assistance for school fees and necessary scholastic materials to ensure that every student has access to the resources they need to succeed. With our support, students can focus on their education and achieve their full potential, regardless of their financial situation.
“I never thought I'd have the chance to touch a computer or even dream of studying computer studies. The computer lab at my school has opened doors I never knew existed. It has inspired me to pursue a computer-related career, and I will work hard to
make this dream a reality."
- Paulina Banda, student, Bwengu Community Day Secondary School.
Teachers
Pre-Service Full Teacher Certification
Our Pre-Service Full Teacher Training Certification Program partners with primary schools to recruit volunteer teachers who undergo comprehensive and high-quality teacher training via Open and Distance Learning. After completion, graduates become qualified teachers and are deployed to target schools by the government. To ensure continuous professional development for teachers, we offer flexible training and development opportunities that keep educators up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices. From learner-centered/ variability pedagogy to digital skills, our program focuses on providing practical training that can be immediately applied to improve education quality. We believe investing in education personnel development is key to delivering quality education for all students.
This past year, 97 teaching volunteers have now been trained to become fully certified teachers.
"Without this intervention, I wouldn't have been able to realize my dream of becoming a teacher. This opportunity has changed my life. I am now one step closer to fulfilling my dream, and I am determined to make the most of it."
- Daud Soft Nyasulu, teacher in training student at Theodora van Rossum Teachers' Training College.
Building a Stronger
Healthcare Ecosystem
Our mission is to improve the health of Malawi, especially for our young people.
These programs are designed to bring quality healthcare within reach for all, (especially those in under-resourced areas), and to provide better nutrition and sanitation services, giving Malawian youth a much better chance at success in life.
Healthcare
Sustained Health & Empowerment
Ulalo's Sustained Health & Empowerment (SHE) program aims to improve the overall health and well-being of individuals and communities through education, access to health services, community empowerment and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.
“Ulalo’s support to our health facilities, Ekwendeni Mission Hospital and Kavuzi Health Centre, has helped us strengthen service delivery… rooted in shared values and a deep commitment to community wellbeing.”
- Mphatso Ngulube, Director of Health Department, CCAP Synod of Livingstonia
Ulalo Menstrual Hygiene Management Program
Ulalo implements the Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) program to support girls in managing their menstrual health by providing reusable sanitary pad kits and mentorship. This initiative aims to reduce absenteeism caused by a lack of menstrual hygiene products, ensuring girls can attend school consistently and focus on their education without disruption.
MHM has already distributed reusable sanitary pads to over 900 girls across 13 primary schools and counting.
"Previously, I would skip school, feeling embarrassed and afraid. Now, thanks to Ulalo, I am worry-free. I feel empowered and focused on my studies, and my grades have improved. I am grateful for the opportunities and determined to seize them."
- Amina from Chitokoto Primary School
Medical Aid and Relief Initiative (MARI)
Through our partnership with medical equipment providers, we make accessible and affordable refurbished equipment and supplies available to healthcare facilities. We understand the growing need for resources and equipment to keep up with increasing demand, and we strive to ensure that no one is left behind. We provide essential medical supplies, from gloves and gowns to disinfectants and syringes, to keep healthcare workers and patients safe. Our goal is to create a positive impact on communities by supporting healthcare facilities and making quality healthcare accessible to everyone.
“Ulalo’s support to Rumphi District Hospital has strengthened our ability to deliver quality healthcare… Their responsiveness and alignment with our actual needs is the kind of partnership we need more of in the health sector.”
- Dr. Arnold Jumbe, Director of Health and Social Services, Rumphi District
Nutrition
Sustainable School Meals Program
We believe that healthy and nutritious food is essential for students' overall well-being and academic success. Through our CANARASI project, our sustainable school meal program is designed to provide healthy, locally-grown meals to our partner schools. We provide farm inputs, sustainable farming training, and support for school kitchens and energy-saving cooking stoves. Our community-led approach ensures that the program is sustainable, with school meal committees and food preparation training. We take a holistic approach, promoting sustainable agriculture and food systems to improve students' access to nutritious food. Our goal is to boost attendance and enhance academic performance for junior primary school learners by providing them with the healthy meals they need to thrive.
Three local organizations (YISEA, Shine on Malawi and Kanthunkhako cooperative) have been empowered to implement the School Meals Program (SMP) in ten primary schools through a franchise model, strengthening local ownership and project sustainability.
So far, a total of 423 participants (397 women and 30 men) from all ten SMP schools were trained in the preparation of nutritious meals and good hygiene practices related to food storage, preparation, and feeding.
"Taking part in the implementation of the SMP [School Meals Program] has built our organizational capacity and allowed us to directly contribute to sustainable development better nutrition and food security in our community."
- Mr Rat Mtheto, Manager of Kanthukhako cooperative
“Since introducing diversified crops, our meals will be improved in quality and variety. Students are more energized and attentive in class. The harvest from our school garden has made a real difference.”
- Mr. T Kabila, SMP vice chair Ezweleni primary school
Sanitation
Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH)
Our programs aim to address two crucial aspects of health and hygiene: menstrual hygiene management and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). In communities where access to menstrual hygiene products and education is limited, we promote menstrual hygiene through education, affordable menstrual products, and positive attitudes towards menstruation. Similarly, our WASH program tackles the lack of clean water, proper sanitation, and good hygiene in communities, improving infrastructure, raising awareness, and promoting positive behavior changes. Join us in creating a healthier, more inclusive world by supporting our efforts towards menstrual hygiene management and WASH.
Creating Thriving
Communities
Ulalo works with over 80,000 households to break the cycle of poverty and create conducive environment for young people.
Community Activation
Our program creates thriving communities and empowers them to create positive change from within by providing them with the necessary skills, resources, and support. We believe that every community has the potential to take ownership of its development and address the challenges it faces. Our community program focuses on three main areas:
Infrastructure - Building secure, inclusive environments through child child protection and gender equality initiatives
Transportation – Reducing transportation barriers
Advocacy – Engaging leaders, community groups and improving governance, financial systems, and sustainability for long-term community development
Ulalo offers a range of workshops, training sessions, and community events to help community members and families identify and prioritize their development needs and take collective action to address them. Our program inspires and empowers communities to work together towards a shared vision of a better future. Join us in creating sustainable change from within!
Infrastructure: School Development
Featuring MALOKOTERA & JALAWE SECONDARY SCHOOLS
We strive to provide quality education to all children in a safe and supportive environment. Our program collaborates with communities to improve school infrastructure, including classrooms, hostels, computer labs, and water and hygiene facilities. These upgrades enhance the learning environment for students and teachers, promote educational success, and attract and retain high-quality teachers. Our community-led approach considers each community's needs and priorities, working closely with local schools, authorities, and members to identify pressing needs and create improvement plans. Our expert team provides technical guidance to ensure high-quality projects.
Transportation: Ulalo Bike Rental Project
The World Bank recognizes that access to schools is a crucial factor affecting enrollment and attendance. In Malawi and other Sub-Saharan African countries, many students face mobility constraints that make attending school difficult, particularly for those living far from their nearest school. Our bike rental initiative tackles this issue by providing rental bicycles to secondary school students, especially girls and those who walk over 8 kilometers to school. By addressing the mobility challenge, we aim to improve the students' chances of achieving their educational goals and building a better future. We are committed to ensuring that all students have access to quality education, regardless of where they live.
The initiative provided 118 bicycles to benefit 165 students (112 boys and 53 girls) across seven secondary schools of Choma CDSS, Ekwendeni CDSS, Engucwini CDSS, Enukweni CDSS, Ezondweni CDSS, Jombo CDSS and Luzi CDSS.
It has also substantially reduced absenteeism among students. Prior to receiving bikes, students missed an average of 3 days per month. After receiving bikes, absenteeism dropped to 1 day per term, highlighting the program’s direct impact on school attendance.
“The journey [to school] was tiring. I often missed my first lessons, and my grades suffered. Many times, I thought about quitting. It is never easy to complete secondary school with such an unbearable distance. I have seen friends give up. I almost did too. Now, I reach school early and don’t miss classes. I feel safer and more determined to complete my education.”
- Fairness Nkhoma, student from Elangeni, Mzimba at Ezondweni Community Day Secondary School.
Advocacy
Ulalo’s advocacy work is rooted in amplifying community voices and influencing policies that directly impact education access and quality in Malawi. We advocate for fair and equitable teacher allocation, greater accountability in bursary programs, especially under the Government’s Constituency Development Fund and transparent distribution and usage of learning materials like textbooks. In the area of technology, we promote the recognition of digital rights for all learners, call for increased investment in EdTech, and push for the inclusion of both open-source and licensed software in national education curricula. We also advocate on communication equity, urging the reduction of internet costs and the recognition of community networks as viable, affordable alternatives for digital connectivity in underserved areas. Over the course of the last year, 13 petitions were written and submitted to the government on these issues.
Fostering Financial Freedom and Entrepreneurship
“The CANARASI Project, as implemented by Ulalo, is a shining example of effective, multi-sectoral collaboration… Ulalo’s leadership has been strategic, inclusive, and impactful.”
- Owen Kumwenda, Deputy Director of Agriculture, M'mbelwa District Council
Ulalo is a champion of ensuring Malawian citizens, particularly women, are employed in fulfilling jobs, and able to be financially independent. These entrepreneurship and financial development programs provide skills and training in a variety of areas to increase productivity of Malawi and the overall potential and success of its people.
Ulalo is proud to offer entrepreneurship, sustainable agriculture, and environmental sustainability through its CANARASI project.
CANARASI Project
The CANARASI project is a multi-faceted project that assists Malawians in numerous areas. Ulalo has partnered with Chancen durch Bildung and the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development-BMZ to realize the ambitious CANARASI project, valued at over 700 million kwachas.
Financial Literacy, Enterprise Development and Economic Empowerment
The CANARASI project empowers young people with the skills they need to thrive in the modern world. We recognize the challenges and opportunities that young people face today, and our comprehensive curriculum equips them with the confidence and practical know-how to navigate them successfully. From personal development and effective communication to leadership skills and financial literacy. Our hands-on approach ensures that our students receive practical training in a range of productive skills, such as digital literacy and entrepreneurship, which are essential for future success. Our goal is to prepare young people for life beyond the classroom, helping them to reach their full potential and make a positive impact on their communities.
20 Village Agents were trained in Village Savings and Loan (VSL) methodologies and small business development. They support 40 VSL groups, reaching over 600 community members, who now have access to financial services and business knowledge to start small-scale enterprises.
Being part of a VSL group helped me start a small vegetable business. I can now support my children’s education and meet basic needs with more ease. Community member now has access to small loans and capital to do small business especially women.
- Mrs. Florence Chipeta Member thunduwike staff VSL group
Sustainable Agriculture
The CANARASI project aims to increase gainful self-employment and wage-employment of youth and adults through ensuring access to high quality professional education and training integrating digital, technical, business, life and soft skills.
At our core, we believe that financial stability and independence are essential for building a better future. That's why we're committed to empowering individuals and communities with the tools they need to achieve their financial goals. Through our Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA) and Agriculture development programs, we provide access to financial services, training, and support, helping people take control of their finances, save money, growth crops and invest in their future.
100 School Meals Committee members and 20 lead farmers across all ten participating schools were trained in Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) techniques under the CANARASI project.
The training equipped communities with practical knowledge on soil improvement and sustainable farming practices. school gardens are more productive, and community members apply these skills in their own homes too.
- Mrs. Tiyezge Mapiri community member Karanga Primary school
Environmental Sustainability
The highly anticipated Community Activation, Natural Resources, and Social Infrastructure (CANARASI) project was launched by the Mzimba North District Agriculture Extension Coordinating Committee (DAECC) in 2024.
The initiative, slated to run for three years, aims to bolster social infrastructure and promote sustainable resource management in communities surrounding the Vwaza Marsh National Park area.
Environmental sustainability, a key factor in the project, involves composting fertilizers, rainwater harvesting and watershed management, and will include the introduction of 30 beehives, as well as the development of tree nurseries promoting reforestation and pollination of much needed crops.