KASUNGU-(MaraviPost)-A group of Gule Wamkulu masqueraders stormed Chulu Primary School in Kasungu, causing panic among learners and teachers.

The masked performers, regarded as sacred figures in Chewa culture, reportedly arrived atu the school searching for a teacher they accuse of revealing spiritual secrets to pupils.

According to information from the school, the targeted teacher allegedly told learners during class that Gule Wamkulu characters are ordinary people.

He is also said to have claimed that the dancers go to the graveyard to dress in their traditional regalia as a way of frightening communities.

These remarks have angered local chiefs and community leaders, who believe the teacher’s statements undermine the cultural values of the Chewa people.

Traditional authorities argue that such teachings risk eroding the children’s respect for Gule Wamkulu and weakening their connection to their heritage.

They maintain that cultural institutions should be upheld and protected, especially within Chewa communities where Gule Wamkulu plays an important spiritual and social role.

Some community leaders have demanded that the teacher be removed from the school as a consequence of his alleged comments.

They have warned that failure to take action may force them to “handle the matter themselves,” a threat that has increased tension around the school.

Teachers and learners at Chulu Primary School remain frightened after the incident, with some describing the unexpected appearance of the dancers as traumatising.

Education officials in the district are expected to intervene to restore calm and ensure that learning continues without further disruption.

The situation has highlighted the delicate balance between cultural preservation, education, and modern teaching practices in Malawi’s rural schools.

Community leaders insist that cultural respect must be maintained, while education authorities caution that schools should remain safe spaces for learners and teachers.

The incident has sparked a wider debate on how cultural traditions should be handled within the education system.

For now, parents and teachers are hoping for a peaceful resolution that protects both cultural values and the safety of everyone at Chulu Primary School.

The Maravi Post