UNIMA Shines at 10th IPADA Conference, Wins 3 Prestigious Awards

The University of Malawi secured three major awards at the 10th International Conference on Public Administration and Development Alternatives (IPADA) in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa, emphasizing its influence in the fields of governance, leadership, and public administration. The Conference was held from 9th to 12th September, 2025, with the theme “Africa’s Future, Sustainable Political Economy and The Global Space”.

The University was honoured with the awards of Distinguished Outstanding IPADA Ambassador, Distinguished Long-Standing Regional University and Distinguished Lifetime Award This last award was presented posthumously to the late Prof. Richard Tambulasi, former Principal of Chancellor College, as the University of Malawi was previously called.

These awards recognize the University’s commitment to academic excellence, public service, and development at local and international level. The posthumous Lifetime Award, in particular, honoured the late Prof. Tambulasi as an academic figure and for his exceptional service, visionary leadership, and lifelong dedication to the advancement of higher education in Malawi and beyond.

According to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Malawi, Prof. Samson Sajidu, the honours speak volumes about UNIMA’s continued contribution to knowledge, leadership, and development within the region and beyond. The Vice Chancellor further expressed pride in the recognition of the late Prof. Tambulasi’s lifetime achievements, noting that his legacy continues to inspire new generations of scholars and leaders.

The International Conference on Public Administration and Development Alternatives (IPADA) is an international academic organisation aimed at promoting quality scholarship and academic networking across the continents. 

Prof. Lewis Baison Dzimbiri received the awards on behalf of the University of Malawi.