Suffering at school: Results of the Malawi gender-based violence in schools survey

The objective of the survey was to assess primarily the extent and nature of gender-based violence in Malawian schools.

The Violence against School Children in Malawian Schools field data collection took place from 15 February to 22 March 2005. The objective of the survey was to assess primarily the extent and nature of gender-based violence in Malawian schools. School children aged nine years and older were interviewed. Core questions on perceptions of violence, fears, and feelings of safety were posed to all children, and questions probing experiences of sexual violence and bullying were posed to children aged nine to 13 years, and 14 years and older. Each module was designed for the specific age group, and where necessary, referrals for counselling and support were provided to children. Teachers and principals at each sample school were also interviewed.

About the author:

Patrick Burton is an independent research consultant specialising in crime and justice issues. Formerly a director of Development Research Africa (DRA), an independent development research company based in South Africa, he has undertaken work in South Africa, Malawi, Tanzania and India.

This research and publication were funded by the Department for  International Development (DFID) in Malawi.