The Facts Behind Desire Mhango’s “Disappearance” After Being Weeded From KuHes

New details have emerged surrounding the case of 22-year-old Desire Mhango, a former Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KuHes) student who was earlier reported missing. It has since been established that she was not missing, but had quietly enrolled at a private secondary school after being withdrawn from university on academic grounds.

Desire, who scored 12 points in her MSCE, was weeded from KuHes in April this year. She reportedly kept the information from her parents and relatives, with only a few close classmates aware of her situation.

Struggling to disclose the withdrawal to her family, Desire began exploring alternative educational opportunities. A friend informed her about private secondary schools that offer scholarships to high-performing students. She applied to two institutions and was accepted by both, eventually choosing Chisapi Girls Private Secondary School.

On November 2, Desire left home claiming she was returning to Blantyre to resume her studies at KuHes. Upon arrival, she phoned her guardian, Mr. John Nyirenda, assuring him she had reached safely.

However, once she reported at Chisapi, her phone like all students’ devices was collected by the school and switched off. This sudden loss of communication alarmed her family, prompting them to search for her.

During inquiries, the family learned she had been withdrawn from KuHes months earlier. As the story circulated online, close friends who knew her plans contacted the family and revealed that Desire was at Chisapi.

Mr. Nyirenda, who resides at Raiply Malawi in Mzimba, travelled to the school, where he met both Desire and school authorities. Chisapi administrators confirmed that Desire had explained her situation upon admission and had provided only her mother’s phone number. They further clarified that the school contacts parents only when necessary or when a student requests communication—something Desire had not done.

School officials also disclosed that Desire preferred to remain at the school—even during holidays—until she completes her MSCE in July next year, and that she has been receiving psychological counselling to cope with the academic setback and stress.

Mr. Nyirenda reassured her of unwavering family support and encouraged her to maintain open communication. He also expressed gratitude to Chisapi Girls for providing care and guidance during her emotional transition.

The initial reports, including one published by Face of Malawi, indicated that the girl was missing as her family searched for her. The matter has now been clarified.

Source: Hastings Msosa