We believe every child deserves a chance to learn.
In Dzaleka, one of Africa's most densely populated refugee camps, tens of thousands of people live in uncertainty. Ubuntu Nation School was born out of a simple but radical belief: education cannot wait.
As a project of the Brazilian NGO Fraternity Without Borders, we provide free, quality education from pre-school through primary, developing each child academically, socially, morally and personally, in an inclusive and supportive environment.
From early childhood through primary, we develop the whole child, mind, character and community.
Early Childhood Education
A developmental, progressive approach inspired by the Montessori method, nurturing the whole child, academically, emotionally, socially and physically, in the earliest years.
Primary School
Primary education through Grade 5, blending the Malawian national curriculum with the International Baccalaureate (IB).
Languages
Students learn in English, French, Portuguese and Chichewa, building communication skills, cultural awareness and a connection to the wider world.
Extra-curricular activities
Sports, music, drama, debate, cultural activities, technology clubs and community service, learning that goes beyond the classroom.
Inclusive education
Learners with diverse needs receive academic and social support so every child can take part fully in school life.
Meals
Every child at the school receives two nourishing meals a day, so no one has to learn on an empty stomach.
Whole-person values
Respect, care and responsibility are taught alongside academics, helping students grow into caring, responsible people.
We believe in a world where forced displacement never limits a child's potential. Through inclusive, global education, we seek to turn extreme poverty into self-sufficiency and resilience, empowering Malawians and refugees to lead the transformation of their own communities.
Our vision
Where we are
Dzaleka: a camp that became a city
Dzaleka Refugee Camp was established in 1994 in Dowa District, Malawi, originally designed for 10,000 people. Today, more than 56,000 people from DRC, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Somalia and beyond call it home, with no right to work, limited freedom of movement and uncertain futures.
For children in Dzaleka, access to quality education is not guaranteed. Schools are overcrowded, resources are scarce, and many children are left behind, not because they lack potential, but because the system wasn't built for them.
Ubuntu Nation School was created to change that.
How it started
Ubuntu: "I am because we are."
Ubuntu Nation School was founded in 2020 as an educational project of the Brazilian NGO Fraternity Without Borders, with a vision to create real opportunities for children to develop their full potential, whatever their background.
It began as a pre-school for 150 children in Dzaleka Refugee Camp. Driven by the community's growing needs, the school introduced primary education between 2021 and 2022.
Today, Ubuntu Nation School serves around 2,500 students, blending the Malawian national curriculum with the Montessori approach and the International Baccalaureate, proof that a community's will can move mountains.
What drives us
Our values
Our motto is simple, "I am because we are." Everything we do grows from three values.
Respect
Every person is valuable and deserves dignity. We encourage students to respect themselves, others and the diversity around them.
Care
Care begins with responsibility, for ourselves, for others, for nature, and in gratitude. Kindness, empathy and support guide daily life at school.
Responsibility
Thinking globally and acting locally, students take responsibility for their learning and choices, building discipline, leadership and a commitment to their communities.
Leadership
The people behind the school
Our school exists so that no child's potential is lost to displacement, and so that every learner is seen, supported and encouraged to thrive.
Ubuntu Nation School leadership
Ubuntu Nation School is led by director Evaldo Joseph Palatinsky, a humanitarian and education professional with a background in journalism and 30 years of experience in education.
He works with a dedicated leadership team: pedagogical and administrative supervisors, an inclusive-education coordinator, an IB coordinator, and primary and pre-school coordinators across the morning and afternoon shifts.
Together they ensure effective teaching, strong classroom management, professional development and consistent support for every learner, and the school is backed by Fraternidade Sem Fronteiras and a global network of volunteers, donors and partners.
How we teach
An education built on dignity
We blend the Malawian national curriculum with international approaches, the Montessori method and the International Baccalaureate (IB), to give students strong foundations and a love of learning.
Education here is about developing the whole person. Alongside academics, we nurture children's emotional, social and physical growth, and help them become respectful, caring and responsible.
Our students learn in English, French and Portuguese, building the communication skills and cultural awareness to connect with the wider world.
Our campus
A school built by its community
What began as open-air classes has grown into a campus with classrooms, a library, laboratories, sports facilities and a computer lab, much of it built with the community over the years.
Our facilities support hands-on, well-rounded learning. The school has even hosted a pioneering Mathematics Camp in Malawi, bringing fresh, engaging approaches to maths education.
We continue to need support for infrastructure improvements, more classrooms and better facilities. Get in touch if you're interested in funding a specific project.
By the numbers
Growing every year since 2020
Every figure below represents children who showed up to learn, despite everything working against them.
+2,500
Students enrolled
in pre-school and primary
2020
Founded
opened on 20 February 2020
150 → 2,500
Growth in enrolment
from our first class to today
3
Languages
English, French and Portuguese
100%
Free
education for every child
✓
Officially recognised
government-registered school
Life at the school
A place of affection
Behind every statistic is a child who feels safe, seen and welcome. Here is what that looks like.
A place to belong
Where every child feels safe, seen and valued.
Many of our students come from situations of deep vulnerability. At Ubuntu, school becomes a place of real care and affection, somewhere they feel welcome every single day.
Every language welcome
Students from many countries, learning side by side.
Our learners come from many cultures. We welcome and value that diversity, and protect everyone from discrimination in everyday school life.
Beyond the classroom
Clubs and activities that build confidence.
Sports, music, drama, debate and technology clubs help young people grow in confidence, creativity, teamwork and leadership, and discover talents beyond their lessons.
Seeing this effort turn into real benefits for the community, in the happy little faces of the children who became part of this family, filled me with a deep feeling of love.
A Fraternidade Sem Fronteiras volunteer in Dzaleka
Transparency
What your support pays for
Your gift goes directly to students. Here is where it is needed most.
Teaching staff
Teacher salaries and ongoing training, the largest and most essential investment in our students.
Library & laboratories
Books, a library and laboratories that bring lessons to life and give students room to explore and discover.
School supplies
Free uniforms, books, stationery and learning materials, so cost is never a barrier to learning.
Classrooms & campus
Building and maintaining classrooms, the library, the computer lab and safe outdoor spaces.
Care beyond class
Inclusive education, extra-curricular clubs and the support that helps every child take part and thrive.
Mural
News from the school
Updated regularly with what is happening at Ubuntu Nation School: milestones, achievements and everyday life.
July 2026
Welcome to our Mural
This is the school's noticeboard, where we share regular news about our students, our teachers and our community. Come back often to follow the small victories and big moments of life at Ubuntu Nation School.
2026
Officially recognised
Ubuntu Nation School was officially recognised as an institution committed to providing quality education to both Malawian students and refugee learners, a proud milestone for our whole community.
Highlight
Our Mathematics Camp
Ubuntu Nation School hosted a pioneering Mathematics Camp in Malawi, bringing fresh and engaging approaches to mathematics and sparking a love of numbers in our students.
Take action
Get involved
There are many ways to support Ubuntu Nation School, from a one-time donation to a long-term partnership.
Ubuntu Nation School is part of the Nação Ubuntu project, run by the Brazilian humanitarian organisation Fraternity Without Borders (Fraternidade Sem Fronteiras), alongside the Dzaleka community in Malawi.
Through volunteer caravans, supporters travel to Dzaleka to stand with our students, teachers and families, building homes, running workshops and carrying their stories back home. You can also sponsor a child from anywhere in the world. As they say at Fraternity Without Borders: “to sponsor is to love.”
Support
Join us
100% of donations go directly to the school. No hidden fees. Every amount makes a real difference.
Most popular
$10 / month
Keep a student in school
Covers school supplies and learning materials for one student for a full month, notebooks, pencils, basic texts.
$30 / month
Stock a classroom
Provides books, learning materials and supplies for a class of young learners for a full month.
$80 / month
Support a teacher
Contributes to a teacher's monthly salary and professional development, the backbone of everything we do.
Any amount
Give what you can
Every donation, large or small, goes directly to students. There is no minimum. Even $5 buys a month of notebooks.
How to donate
We are setting up our online donation platform. In the meantime, please contact us directly, we will confirm receipt and provide a donation record.
Our scholarship programme connects donors directly with a named student, you receive updates on their progress, grades and wellbeing throughout the year.
A full scholarship covers: enrolment, school uniform, books, stationery and learning materials for one student.
We welcome skilled volunteers for periods of 3 months or more. Remote collaboration is also possible for some roles.
Volunteer teacher (short term)
Join us for a defined period, from a few weeks to a few months. Share your knowledge, support our teachers and bring fresh energy to the classroom, in any subject.
Permanent teacher
Join our teaching staff for the long term. We look for qualified, committed teachers, especially in English, Mathematics, Science and Computing, ready to build something lasting with our students.
Digital skills trainers
Professionals who can train students and staff in computing, web, or digital literacy. Remote sessions possible.
Counsellors
Psychologists or social workers with experience in trauma-informed practice, ideally with cross-cultural experience.
Construction volunteers
Engineers, architects and builders to help improve the school's infrastructure during our annual build programmes.
We just need you
No special qualification needed. If you have time, care and willingness, there is a place for you: helping with activities, events and the everyday life of the school. Come as you are, with whatever you have to offer.
A partnership with Ubuntu Nation School is a partnership with an entire community, one that is determined to educate its children despite every obstacle. What you bring, we multiply.
Ubuntu Nation School
Questions
Questions & answers
For anyone thinking about volunteering with us or supporting the school. Don't see your question here? Just get in touch.
Do I need to be a teacher or have a specific qualification to volunteer?
No. We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds. Whether you can teach, run an activity, help with events or simply lend a hand, there is a place for you. Come with whatever you have to offer.
How long do I need to commit as a volunteer?
It is up to you. Some volunteers join for a short season of a few weeks or months; others become part of our team for the long term. Both are valuable.
Can I help from abroad, without travelling to Malawi?
Yes, for some roles. Skills like digital training, design or online mentoring can often be shared remotely. Other roles, such as classroom teaching, happen on-site at the school.
Can I make a one-time donation, or does it have to be monthly?
Both are welcome. You can give a single gift or a monthly contribution, whatever suits you. The Donate button at the top of the site takes you to our secure donation platform.
What does it mean to sponsor a student?
Sponsoring connects you with a specific student. Your monthly support helps cover their enrolment, uniform, books and materials, and you receive updates on their progress through the year.
Where does my donation actually go?
Your gift goes directly to the school, supporting teachers, learning materials, meals and the everyday running of the classrooms. The project is run by the Brazilian NGO Fraternity Without Borders.
Reach out
Contact us
We are a small team, every message is read and answered personally. We respond within 3–5 working days.
An international NGO working across Africa, Latin America and Asia.
Visiting? All visits must be pre-arranged, contact us at least 4 weeks in advance. Dzaleka is ~40km north of Lilongwe; UNHCR pass required (we assist confirmed visitors).
Education cannot wait. Neither can we.
Your support, however small, keeps a child in school, fills a classroom with books and pays a teacher who shows up every day.
A humanitarian and education professional with a background in journalism and 30 years of experience, committed to academic excellence and an inclusive learning environment.
FM
Frank Mukendi
Pedagogical Supervisor
Works to improve the quality of teaching and learning, supporting teachers with classroom observation, practical feedback and continuous professional development.
FB
Francois Baleja
Administrative Supervisor
Oversees the school's daily administration, keeping records, internal communication and processes organised and efficient.
MN
Moses Nkhembo
Inclusive Education Coordinator
Supports learners with diverse needs, helping teachers adapt their strategies so every child can take part fully in class.
JO
Joe Otaniel
IB Coordinator
Coordinates the International Baccalaureate programme, supporting teachers and making sure teaching and assessment meet IB standards.
MK
Masse Kininga
Primary Coordinator (Morning shift)
Oversees primary academics during the morning shift, supporting teachers, lesson planning and learner progress.
PR
Patricia Richard
Primary Coordinator (Afternoon shift)
Coordinates teaching and learning in the primary section during the afternoon, keeping instruction consistent and engaging.
MK
Marie Koyenyi
Preschool Coordinator (Morning shift)
Leads teaching and early-childhood activities in the preschool morning shift, supporting a safe and structured start to learning.
EC
Eli Cigolo
Preschool Coordinator (Afternoon shift)
Manages preschool classroom activities in the afternoon, sustaining effective early learning and a supportive environment.
DK
Daniel Kiza
Communication Officer
Shares the school's activities and achievements with the community and the wider public, through updates, event coverage and photography.
SI
Samba Mackys Israel
Technology
Supports digital learning and keeps the school's technology and ICT resources available and well used.
The Montessori method
The Montessori method is a way of teaching young children that follows each child's natural curiosity and pace. Instead of sitting still and only listening, children learn by doing: exploring hands-on activities, moving freely and making their own discoveries.
Teachers gently guide rather than direct, so children build independence, concentration and confidence. From the earliest years, this nurtures a real joy of learning that stays with them for life.
The International Baccalaureate (IB)
The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an internationally recognised approach to education that focuses on developing curious, knowledgeable and caring young people. Rather than only memorising facts, students learn to ask questions, think for themselves and connect ideas across different subjects.
At Ubuntu Nation School, IB-inspired teaching helps our pupils build strong foundations, confidence and a genuine love of learning, preparing them to understand the world and to keep growing wherever life takes them.
Many languages, one community
Our lessons are taught in English, French, Portuguese and Chichewa, the national language of Malawi. But Dzaleka is home to people who have fled from many parts of Africa, and each family brings its own mother tongue.
In practice, a dozen or more languages are spoken across the camp, among them Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Kirundi, Lingala, Somali and Amharic. We welcome and value every one of them, and we help children learn side by side across all their languages.
Learning together, beyond prejudice
Dzaleka is home to people from many countries, ethnic groups, religions and walks of life. In a place like this, and across much of Africa, prejudice and discrimination are still very real, and children can feel them every single day. Inclusive education is how we push back.
Every child is welcome here, whatever their nationality, language, religion or ability, and learners with additional needs receive the support they require to take part fully. Just as importantly, we help children live and learn side by side, so they grow up seeing difference as something to respect and celebrate, not to fear. Fighting prejudice is slow, patient work, and it begins in the classroom.
Two meals a day, and dignity
Beyond the academic curriculum, Ubuntu Nation School cares first of all for the dignity of every child. In a place where resources and money are scarce, making sure a child is fed is one of the most important things we can do.
Every pupil receives two meals on each school day, often the most reliable food they will have. A child who is not hungry can concentrate, play, learn and simply be a child. Offering food is, quite simply, part of making life worth living, and it is at the heart of everything we do.
What it truly means to be a refugee
The story behind Dzaleka, and behind every child at our school.
We often hear the word "refugee" on the news and move on. But behind that single word is a human being who lost almost everything, not by choice, and who is trying, against enormous odds, to build a life again. This is the reality that surrounds Ubuntu Nation School, and the story of the families we walk beside.
Fleeing with nothing
Across many parts of Africa, ethnic and armed conflicts have forced millions of ordinary civilians to run for their lives. When violence arrives, there is no time to pack and no time to plan. Families leave in the middle of the night with only the clothes they are wearing, leaving behind their homes, their land, their work, their friends and sometimes members of their own family.
Many flee without a single document: no birth certificate, no identity card, no proof of who they are or what they owned. In an instant, a teacher, a farmer, a nurse or a shopkeeper becomes a person with no address and no papers, carrying children across borders and into the unknown.
Received, but not yet free
Eventually, many reach a country that agrees to take them in. That welcome saves lives, and it matters deeply. But safety is not the same as freedom. In many host countries, refugees are required to live inside a designated camp. They may not be allowed to work, to travel freely or to choose where they live. The right to simply come and go, which most of us never stop to think about, is taken away.
So people wait. They wait for permission, for papers, for news from home, for a future that always seems just out of reach. Years pass. Children are born inside the camp who have never known any other home.
The papers that decide a life
Whether a person can study, work, travel or start again often comes down to a document. Through its refugee agency, UNHCR, the United Nations registers refugees and helps determine their status. The 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol set out who counts as a refugee and the protection they are owed: never to be forced back into danger, and to be treated with basic dignity and rights.
In practice, a registration card or an asylum-seeker certificate can be the thin line between being invisible and being seen, between having no rights at all and having a chance. For a refugee, a piece of paper is not bureaucracy. It is identity, protection and hope, held in the hand.
Dzaleka: a camp that became a city
Dzaleka was opened in 1994 in Malawi to shelter around 10,000 people fleeing genocide and war in the Great Lakes region of Africa. Today it is home to far more: tens of thousands of people from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, and beyond. What was meant to be temporary has become a crowded, living city of survivors, with markets, places of worship, small businesses and, of course, thousands of children who deserve the chance to learn.
This is why we teach
Every child at Ubuntu Nation School carries part of this story. Education cannot give them back what they lost. But it can give them something no conflict can ever take away: knowledge, confidence, dignity, and a future they can choose for themselves.
When you stand with our school, you tell a child who arrived with nothing that they are not forgotten, that their potential still matters, and that hope, even here, is worth holding on to.
