Since primary education was free in Malawi, William attended Wimbe Primary School and completed till 8th grade there. He then enrolled in Kachokolo Secondary School to continue his education. However, he was forced to drop out a mere few months into his first year as the country suffered a drought and severe famine in 2001. With no income and a family to feed, his family was unable to afford the $80 annual school fees. William had to stop his formal education for 5 years.

It was during this period that he built his windmill which caught the attention of the media and public. With support from the public, sufficient funds were raised which allowed William to resume his secondary education at Madisi Secondary School. He then transferred to the African Bible College Christian Academy that allowed him to attain an American High School Diploma through distance learning.