UNIVERSITIES KEY TO ACHIEVING MALAWI 2063 AGENDA

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Jessie Kabwila, has emphasized the crucial role universities play in achieving the country’s development goals, as outlined in the Malawi 2063 agenda.

Speaking during a visit to the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), Kabwila challenged higher learning institutions to produce market-relevant and employable graduates.

Kabwila was impressed by the innovations and technological developments at MUBAS, which she noted were comparable to international standards.

She cited the hand-held tractor produced at MUBAS’ Agriculture Mechanisation Unit as an example of the institution’s commitment to innovation.

The Minister also commended the University of Malawi (UNIMA) for its state-of-the-art Administration Complex and lecture rooms.

Despite the progress made, Kabwila acknowledged the challenges facing higher education in Malawi.

She expressed concern over the mushrooming of bogus universities offering substandard degrees and the poor accommodation facilities for students.

The Minister emphasized the need for universities to maintain high standards and ensure that graduates are equipped with skills relevant to the job market

Kabwila assured that the government is committed to supporting higher education in Malawi.

She disclosed that the Ministry will soon table the Higher Education Bill in parliament, which aims to sanitize the higher education system and eliminate fake universities and degree mills.

The Minister also emphasized the importance of academic freedom and independence, allowing universities to pursue knowledge and innovation without restriction.

Kabwila stressed the need for Malawian universities to produce graduates who can compete internationally.

She noted that the government wants degrees from Malawian higher education institutions to be recognized globally, on par with those from countries like China and the USA.

Again, Kabwila’s visit to MUBAS and other higher learning institutions underscores the critical role universities play in achieving Malawi’s development goals.

By promoting innovation, maintaining high standards, and ensuring international recognition, Malawian universities can produce graduates who can drive the country’s economic growth and development.