Investigating the Effectiveness of Bursary Scheme on Education in Public Secondary Schools of Dedza District, Malawi, with a Particular Reference of Bembeke and Tsanjalare Community Day Secondary Schools

Investing in education can be financially rewarding, but numerous students face challenges affording it independently.The purpose of this research was to investigate the influence of bursary funds in addressing education in public secondary schools of Dedza district, Malawi, with a particular reference of Bembeke and Tsanjalare Community Day secondary schools.This study was inclined to Human Capital Theory that emphasizes that for any country to develop, the government of the country must invest in education of its people.The study adopted qualitative and quantitative design where data was collected through interviews and questionnaire to gather insight into the multifaceted effectiveness of bursary funds on education landscape.The study observed that the majority of the beneficiaries were allocated for bursary because of their performance, the reason for this was to ensure that the financial aid is directed towards students who have demonstrated the ability and potential to succeed, making the best use of the available resources and supporting the broader goals of educational institutions.The majority of the respondents also agreed that bursaries made a positive impact on academic performance, retention rates and overall academic performance.This is because bursaries took away financial pressure on students and they were able to give their full attention on their studies.Bursaries also reduced a need for part time works in order to find school fees, allowing students to stay in school.Lastly, the study suggested provision of other academic resources like books, school uniforms, examination fee and sanitary pads, implementation of mentorship programs and provision of counselling sessions.