The expected years of schooling for Malawi is 11 years (2018). The country recognizes the importance of education and has received a lot of funding from various organizations such as the African Development Bank to train teachers and build schools. Free primary education was introduced in 1994 and today, it is compulsory. Education is important in giving people a chance at higher skilled jobs and escape the poverty cycle. In a country like Malawi where poverty is largely a result of environmental degradation and poor environmental management practices, education is also a good opportunity to raise environmental awareness.