Investigating Barriers Faced by Eligible Learners in Accessing Government Bursary Programs: A Qualitative Study of Chitipa Education District, Malawi

Author

Emmanuel Mwakisalu, Dr. C. Maria Ugin Joseph


Abstract

 Access to education remains a critical determinant of socio-economic development and social mobility. In Malawi, government bursary programs have been established to support learners from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and promote equitable access to secondary education. Despite these interventions, many eligible learners continue to face challenges in accessing bursary support. This qualitative study explored the barriers faced by eligible learners in accessing government bursary programs in Chitipa Education District, Malawi. Guided by Human Capital Theory, Social Reproduction Theory, and Equity Theory, the study adopted a phenomenological research design to understand participants' lived experiences. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions involving learners, teachers, parents, and education officials. Thematic analysis revealed five major barriers: limited awareness and information dissemination, socio-economic constraints, administrative and bureaucratic challenges, institutional weaknesses, and socio-cultural factors. The findings suggest that while bursary programs have the potential to improve educational access, their effectiveness is undermined by systemic and contextual challenges. The study recommends strengthening awareness campaigns, simplifying application procedures, improving transparency, and enhancing school-level support mechanisms to ensure equitable access to bursary opportunities.



Keywords

Educational equity, bursary programs, educational access, secondary education, qualitative research, Malawi, Chitipa District



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References


  • (2020). Global Education Monitoring Report 2020: Inclusion and education: All means all. Paris: UNESCO.
  • Ouma,, & Gatimu, M. (2019). Information asymmetry and access to bursary programmes in Kenya. African Journal of Education, 39(1), 22–36.
  • Omotayo, (2021). Access to educational financial aid in Nigeria. Journal of Education Policy, 15(2), 45–60.

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