From Learning to Leading: Mchinji TTC Students Turn Environmental Education into Action
Students at Mchinji Teacher Training College are applying environmental lessons in practical ways following a session by the Centre for Environmental Education and Communication (CEEC) Malawi that focused on behaviour change.
The session, held on 27 February 2026 under the theme “Beyond Environment,” was led by Kondwani Chamwala. It examined key environmental challenges in Malawi, including climate change, deforestation, pollution, biodiversity loss, and energy use. It also explored the role of teachers in shaping learners through knowledge, attitudes, and everyday practices.
“Being an ECO Champion is not about teaching environmental topics, it is about shaping habits, modeling values, and making sustainability part of everyday life,” said Chamwala.
After the session, students began translating ideas into action. During the last planting season, the college planted 1,750 trees to improve the campus environment and support hands-on learning.
To maintain the initiative, students formed an Eco Club. The club is responsible for caring for the trees and promoting simple practices such as using water-filled bottles to help seedlings retain moisture during dry periods.
Students have also started preparing a tree nursery ahead of the next planting season to ensure continuity. The college is additionally exploring year-round tree planting, including timber production to support the Technical Education Department.
One student, Esther Mwausegha, said the session changed her understanding of environmental responsibility.
“Before the session, I saw environmental issues as something distant. Now I know my daily choices matter. Through the Eco Club, I am taking responsibility and encouraging others to do the same,” she said.
Head of the Technical Education Department, Anthony Msukwa, said the initiative has helped students move from theory to practice, while also strengthening leadership and problem-solving skills. He added, “What we are seeing is a clear shift. Students are no longer just learning about the environment, they are actively taking responsibility for it and leading by example on campus.”
The activities at Mchinji TTC demonstrate how environmental education can lead to real behaviour change when learners take ownership of solutions.
Partners in the initiative include the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA), Jesuit Centre for Ecological Development (JCED), Inclusive Business Consulting, Mofaso Engineering Services, Fed Steel Engineering, and Mizu Farm.