A Meeting of Minds: UNIMA and MZUNI strengthen collaboration

In an effort to enhance continuous collaboration, the University of Malawi has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mzuzu University on 29th January, 2025. The event, which was held at Ekhaya Luxury Resort in Mangochi, was attended by the leadership teams of both universities. The collaboration aims to create opportunities that will benefit students and staff, unlock innovative solutions to societal challenges, and promote academic excellence through joint initiatives, among other objectives.

The MoU, signed by the two esteemed institutions, symbolizes a paradigm shift from rivalry to partnership and unity. The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Malawi, Professor Samson Sajidu, introduced the university by outlining its various schools and highlighting some of its existing MoUs with international institutions. He expressed enthusiasm for the newly signed MoU, emphasizing that the partnership marks a significant milestone in the history of higher education in the country. This is the first time two public universities have come together to agree on a shared vision for collaborative research, joint academic programs, and the exchange of students and staff, among other initiatives.

“When we pool our resources, knowledge, and talents, we not only enhance our institutions but also contribute meaningfully to the progress of our nation,” he said. “Our two universities are vast and diverse in all aspects, including the programmes we offer, the research we conduct, the innovations we produce, and the contributions we make to the country. This is what public universities in this country should strive for. We should be beacons of knowledge, innovation, and unity by working hand in hand toward a common goal.”

Among the topics discussed was the collaboration between students from various programmes at both universities, allowing them to leverage their diverse expertise to develop joint projects. Additionally, the sharing of resources was emphasized, such as students from both institutions utilizing each other’s facilities.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Mzuzu University, Professor Wapulumuka Mulwafu, stated that the MoU signifies growth in collaboration among universities, as they seek to strengthen relationships and identify areas where they can work together in the best interests of both institutions and the nation.

“It is always beneficial to work as a team and pool resources, as this allows us to leverage the strengths of all universities. This is what we aim to achieve. MZUNI excels in certain areas, and we want to take advantage of these strengths by collaborating with our colleagues to advance the national agenda, Malawi 2063,” he said.

“We will ensure that this collaboration succeeds. We have already witnessed the benefits of working together, and this partnership will further enhance the quality of education.”

Prof. Sajidu and Prof. Mulwafu thanked the leadership teams of both universities for their vision, commitment, and determination. They expressed optimism about this journey toward transforming both institutions, uplifting communities, and contributing to the national agenda.