Site Description
Located just 200 meters down the road from the Dzaleka Refugee Camp’s main entrance, the There Is Hope (TIH) Campus is one of the most vital educational and community hubs associated with the Dzaleka community. Because it is situated slightly outside the official camp boundaries, the campus is uniquely positioned to serve as a literal and figurative bridge between the displaced population living inside Dzaleka and the Malawian host community in the surrounding Dowa district.
The physical site includes administrative staff offices, dedicated vocational training rooms, a bible college, and a large multi-purpose hall used for community gatherings and graduations.
Statement of Significance
Founded by Innocent Magambi, who himself lived as a refugee for over 27 years, There Is Hope was created with the core belief that refugees should have access to education and means for self-reliance rather than relying solely on continuous relief.
The campus is significant because it provides a dedicated, safe physical space for high-level learning. While basic primary education exists within the camp borders in heavily overcrowded classrooms, the TIH site provides structured environments for adult vocational training (such as tailoring, carpentry, and welding), university scholarship preparations, and business development.
History & Background
- 2006: There Is Hope is founded by Innocent Magambi to provide educational and income-generating opportunities to refugees.
- Campus Development: The organisation established this operational base directly adjacent to the camp to maximise accessibility for residents while integrating members of the local Malawian host community into its programs.
Condition & Preservation
The campus is highly active and well-maintained by the organisation. It functions as a modern educational facility, continuously adapting its classrooms and workshops to host newly integrated vocational skills and community programs.