Finish school project in 2 months—Chilima
Vice-President Saulos Chilima has ordered Nangaunozge Building Contractors to finish construction works at Machinga Secondary School in two months.
He said this on Wednesday when he toured the school.
Said Chilima: “If you are not interested to finish the work, please tell us so that we engage others.
“After two months I will come to see the progress. We will pay you the balance after you finish constructing the eight hostels and the kitchen as per the contract agreement.”
The Veep also noted that the boys and girls’ hostels are close to each other, saying education policy does not encourage such arrangement.
Chilima advised the Ministry of Education not to select Form One learners to the school next year unless construction works are finished on time.
He also assured chiefs that government was addressing the hijab issue through the Ministry of Civic Education and National Unity.
Machinga Secondary School head teacher Micah Zingani said construction work stopped a year ago.
“The school was supposed to have six hostels for girls and six for boys, but only two girls’ hostels are functional,” he said.
Ministry of Education spokesperson Chikodi Chimala said construction started with phase one comprising teaching area, staff houses, hostels, kitchen and maize mill.
Nangaunozge Building Contractors representatives, who were present during the tour, refused to comment.
On his part, Paramount Chief Kawinga expressed hope that Chilima’s visit will help speed up the school project.
He also commended government for directing the Ministry of Local Government to transfer back ownership of Mangochi Turn-Off Market from Balaka District Council to Machinga District Council.
