By Daniel Zimba:
President Lazarus Chakwera has called on 551 undergraduate and postgraduate students who graduated Thursday from the Malawi University of Science and Technology (Must) to adopt a mindset focused on transforming the country into a production-oriented economy.
Chakwera made the challenge at the institution in Thyolo District when he presided over Must’s sixth graduation ceremony.
Out of the 551 graduates, 406 received undergraduate certificates, diplomas and degrees, while 95 graduated with postgraduate degrees and advanced diplomas.
The President reiterated the necessity of increased productivity to align with Malawi’s development goals, which are outlined in the Malawi 2063 (MW2063), the country’s long-term development plan.
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As chancellor of public universities, including Must, Chakwera appreciated the innovative projects emerging from the institution, which celebrated its tenth anniversary since being officially launched in 2014.
Among others, the university is producing fertiliser, which is under testing, and drones designed, in addition to other innovations aimed at creating value-added products and providing solutions to societal challenges.
“You, graduates, should be smart and champion productivity through your innovations, turning raw ideas and materials into value-added commodities,” Chakwera said.
Must Vice Chancellor Address Malata voiced the university’s commitment to aligning its educational offerings with national and regional development initiatives, including MW2063.
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“Apart from imparting theoretical knowledge, we also train students in innovations and entrepreneurship, along with the Umunthu concept, so they can make a difference as responsible citizens,” Malata said.
Meanwhile, chairperson of the university’s council, Boyidi Luwe, announced the establishment of the Must Holding Company, aimed at promoting technological innovation within the university.
Wisely Phiri, founder of Sparc Systems Limited and president of the Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, delivered a motivational speech to the graduating students.
Phiri encouraged graduates to take charge of their futures and to cultivate resilience and commitment in a competitive job market and entrepreneurial landscape.
He cautioned the graduates that securing significant positions in their respective industries would not be a smooth process, emphasising the importance of staying focused on their goals.
The 2025 Must graduation ceremony was held under the theme ‘Aligning Knowledge and Skills with Industry and Community Needs’.
