A Scottish-based charity has provided half-a-million backpacks to help impoverished children in Malawi.
Mary’s Meals has given out 500,000 of the bags donated by supporters to schools it helps in the African country.
The landmark backpack was handed out during a visit to schools in south Malawi.
Lagia Navala, 13, a pupil at Ngabu Primary School, said: “I’m so happy because I have received a backpack.
“Inside, I found a dress, pens and a hardcover book. I will use the bag every day to carry pens and books when I am coming to school.”
The school bags, which are filled with educational and hygiene items, have been distributed since 2005 as part of the Backpack Project.
Education officer Joe Black said: “It is amazing to think of the joy that has been brought to so many children over the years; children who are, thanks to our wonderful supporters, in school eating Mary’s Meals, learning and looking with hope towards a brighter future.”
