Jacaranda Foundation opened its 35th Luc’s Library at the Bangwe Factory, a production unit under the Malawi Council for Disability Affairs (MACODA) in Blantyre. The new facility is designed to support students with disabilities and those without disabilities who are being trained at the factory thereby reinforcing the Foundation’s commitment to inclusive education and practical skills development.
Luc Deschamps, Executive Director of the Jacaranda Foundation, said the initiative followed MACODA’s request for a library and represents a strategic step in expanding literacy and practical skills across Malawi. He described it as a great opportunity to continue establishing libraries that will help students read, understand and gain deeper knowledge of their courses and related fields.
MACODA Director General, George Chiusiwa commented on the collaboration, saying, “This partnership aligns with MACODA’s mandate to protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities in Malawi. Most importantly, it aligns with our goal to promote inclusive education and practical skills development for persons with disabilities. The Luc’s Library will be a critical resource in empowering learners to read more, understand their courses and pursue opportunities with confidence.”
A student representative Mayamiko Ninowa said, “This library will be a game changer for me; it gives us access to resources that will sharpen our sewing and design skills.” Another student, Eneless Limbani, added, “I’m excited to explore the books and practice new patterns; it’s a big boost to our studies and future career prospects particularly for those of with internet challenges.”
The event underscored the shared commitment of Jacaranda Foundation and MACODA to expand educational access and practical training for students with disabilities, with hopes that the library model can be replicated across similar facilities in Malawi.
In addition to the library handover, Jacaranda Foundation Founder, Mary Da Silva made a surprise donation of electric sewing machines to Bangwe Factory Tailoring School.