Minister of Education, Science and Technology Honourable Bright Msaka, SC, has emphasised the need to strengthen practical subjects in secondary schools, saying they play a critical role in equipping learners with skills that can support their future careers and livelihoods.

Msaka made the remarks on Friday in Lilongwe while monitoring the final day of the 2026 Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations at Bwaila Secondary School, where candidates were completing practical subjects.

The minister said he had seen some of the products that had been produced by students, which gave a promise that learners were capable of creating useful and innovative items , he said the ministry’s agenda is to ensure that, from an early stage, learners are able to identify their pathways based on their abilities and interests so that they can be nurtured.

He added that Subjects such as Woodwork and Metalwork provide learners with an opportunity to develop technical skills that respond to societal needs and create pathways beyond formal employment.

He added that the practical projects produced by candidates demonstrated creativity, innovation and critical thinking, showing that learners have the ability to develop solutions that address challenges within their communities.

One of the candidates at Bwaila Secondary School, Levison Itiyezi, said practical subjects had helped students become more creative and discover talents that could benefit them beyond school.

Itiyezi said skills acquired through subjects such as Woodwork and Metalwork could open opportunities in areas such as carpentry and welding, as learners develop confidence and sharpen their abilities while still in secondary school.