UNIMA and Chinese delegation discuss opportunities for collaboration
The University of Malawi (UNIMA) recently hosted the Deputy Chinese Ambassador to Malawi, Mr. Wang Hao, accompanied by other Chinese officials. The UNIMA delegation, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Samson Sajidu, also included the University Registrar, Mr. Martin Matululu, various heads of departments, and other staff members. The meeting, held in the University office boardroom on 25th November 2024, focused on exploring potential areas of collaboration.
During the meeting, Professor Sajidu welcomed the Chinese officials and expressed gratitude for their visit. He began by introducing the University of Malawi, outlining its strategic objectives and existing partnerships with other international universities. He also highlighted some of the challenges currently facing the institution, along with potential areas for collaboration.
In his remarks, Mr Hao expressed enthusiasm for the visit, describing it as an exciting experience. Before the meeting, the Chinese officials toured the campus, and they admired the beauty of the UNIMA. He further emphasized their interest in fostering a cordial relationship with the university, noting that the presentation by Prof. Sajidu provided a comprehensive overview of its operations and vision.
He continued by explaining China’s foreign policy, whose main objective is to build a global community with a shared future. “To achieve this goal, the Chinese President has introduced three major initiatives: the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and the Global Development Initiative,” he stated. He further outlined some of the action plans that form the foundation of China-Africa collaboration, including cultural exchange, a plan for trade prosperity, infrastructure collaboration, and other initiatives.
The discussions centered on potential collaborations. The UNIMA delegation proposed student and staff exchange programs, enabling Chinese students to spend a semester at UNIMA and vice versa. They also suggested that UNIMA students could benefit from opportunities to work in Chinese institutions, gaining insight into different governance systems. Additionally, the delegation mentioned that, as China is a leading producer of technological gadgets, partnerships with Chinese companies could benefit UNIMA. These agreements could enable the supply of essential devices, such as computers and phones, to support students’ academic needs. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of UNIMA branded gifts to the Chinese officials, who in turn presented gifts to the UNIMA team.
