Dzenza Community Day Secondary School (CDSS), located in Dedza District, Malawi, faced significant challenges due to the lack of electricity. The installation of a 9 kWp solar power system with a 15 kWh battery has transformed the school, enabling night and early morning classes, improving administrative efficiency, and enhancing overall educational outcomes for its students.
Project summary
THE NEED
Before the solar power installation, Dzenza CDSS faced numerous challenges due to the lack of electricity. Students were unable to study at night or attend early morning classes, teachers were limited in their ability to use electrical appliances for teaching, and the administration faced difficulties in performing tasks that required electricity. These issues not only disrupted daily activities but also contributed to poor results in national examinations. Additionally, the school incurred high costs and inconveniences by having to travel long distances for tasks that needed electricity.
The solution
To address the issues, a 9 kWp solar power system with a 15 kWh battery was installed at Dzenza CDSS. This solution provided a stable and reliable source of electricity, enabling students to study at night and attend early morning classes. It also allowed teachers to use electrical appliances for teaching, thereby improving the quality of education. Furthermore, the administrative tasks that required electricity could now be performed on-site, reducing costs and improving efficiency.
Impact
The installation of the solar power system has had a transformative impact on Dzenza CDSS. Students can now engage in self-boarding near the school, allowing them to study at night and attend early morning classes, which has improved their academic performance. The administration has become efficient, with tasks that require electricity being performed on-site, reducing costs and travel time. Overall, the school's educational outcomes have significantly improved, serving 278 students and contributing to better results in national examinations. This project contributes to the SDGs 4 and 7.
Impact story
Brighter Days at Dzenza CDSS
“The solar power project has brought great benefits at the school. Learners now have sufficient time to study in the evenings, fostering a spirit of hard work and collaboration through study groups. We anticipate excellent results in the upcoming national examinations. Teachers can now incorporate electric gadgets like overhead projectors and computers into their lessons, enhancing the quality of education….”