Renowned Malawian gospel musician Ethel Kamwendo Banda has urged parents to support their children in exploring other talents if academic performance isn’t their strong suit.

This advice comes in the wake of the release of the Primary School Leaving Certificate Examination (PSLCE) results, which have sparked a mix of reactions on social media.

The legendary singer shared a picture of a student’s exam results, which showed a failure, and offered some thoughtful advice in the caption:

“JUST TO ENCOURAGE PARENTS: A child who fails in one area is not a failure in everything. Maybe their talent lies in music, maybe in football. A child is like a cup; you drink what you put into it. Don’t write them off just because one side didn’t go well. Help them find another path to succeed.”

Ethel emphasized the importance of identifying a child’s strengths and allowing them to focus on subjects or activities they are passionate about.

For example, if a child struggles with sciences, it might be better to encourage them to pursue business subjects. She also recommended finding a part-time tutor to provide additional support in areas where the child needs improvement.

Ethel’s advice is backed by her actions, as she has actively supported one of her own children, who is also a musician. In fact, her child recently featured her in a new song titled “Mwandikweza.”

In closing, she offered her best wishes to all students and parents, blessing them with a prayer.

By Rashid Mkwehiwa