A resilient and responsive health system depends significantly on a well-trained, competent, and ethical health workforce. In Malawi, the Christian Health Association of Malawi (CHAM) plays a pivotal role in the pre-service training of health professionals who serve in both CHAM and broader national health systems. Recognizing the increasing demand for quality healthcare and the global call for Universal Health Coverage (UHC), CHAM is committed to strengthening its pre-service training system to meet national and global competency standards.
The 2025-2030 strategic plan outlines a transformative agenda aimed at enhancing the quality, scale, and sustainability of CHAM’s pre-service education. With a network of 11 training institutions, CHAM seeks to increase student enrollment by 30%, ensure that 90% of graduates meet national competency standards, and upgrade infrastructure for effective learning, including the integration of digital platforms and simulation labs. This plan will be implemented in alignment with national health goals and in collaboration with government bodies, regulatory agencies, and other strategic partners to ensure that the healthcare workforce of tomorrow is adequately equipped to meet Malawi’s health needs.
- Daeyang Luke College
- Ekwendeni College of Health Sciences
- Holy Family College of Health Sciences
- Malamulo College of Health Sciences
- Mulanje Mission College of Nursing and Midwifery
- Nkhoma College of Nursing and Midwifery
- St. John of God College of Health Sciences
- St. John’s Institute for Health
- St. Joseph’s College of Health Sciences
- St. Luke’s College of Health Sciences
- Trinity College of Health Sciences
CHAM has made significant progress in its pre-service training programs, with a total of 5,136 students enrolled as of December 31, 2023. Ekwendeni College of Health Sciences had the highest student population at 1,135, while Nkhoma College of Nursing and Midwifery had the lowest with 154 students. 45% of students were enrolled in diploma programs for nursing and midwifery, followed by 16% in clinical medicine. During the reporting period, a new nutrition program was introduced, and plans are underway to launch a diploma in public health, regulated by the Medical Council of Malawi.
Scholarship support remained a cornerstone of CHAM’s commitment to student success, with 582 students sponsored by various organizations. This included 175 students supported by CHAM through CDC scholarships, and 39 students at risk of dropping out who were considered for one-time scholarships. The CDC was the only donor channeling scholarship support through the CHAM Secretariat, while other donors provided support directly to the colleges. Enrollment for the year reached 2,209 students, with 908 graduates from across all CHAM colleges. Key interventions included supportive supervision, principals’ meetings, and faculty orientation on monitoring and evaluation tools. The year climaxed with 5 colleges receiving buses to alleviate transportation challenges, and securing support from GIZ and PATH.