Vice-Chancellor Awards UNIMA’s Top Students

The University of Malawi does not only promote excellence among its students, but also rewards those who display such brilliance during their stay at the institution. It is for this reason that the Great Hall was filled with excitement on 7th March 2025, as Vice-Chancellor Professor Samson Sajidu conferred various prestigious awards on 163 students in recognition of their outstanding performance. The award categories included the Dean’s List Award, the Vice-Chancellor’s Award, and the Vice-Chancellor’s Extraordinary Student Award.

A total of 162 students received the Dean’s List Award for achieving a GPA of 3.75 and above, with no module below 70%. Among them, 11 students also qualified for the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for attaining a minimum GPA of 3.9.

The most anticipated moment of the evening was the presentation of the Vice-Chancellor’s Extraordinary Student Award, which was given to Mr. Amidu Ibrahim, a fourth-year Humanities student. Mr. Ibrahim, also known as Amidu Ellan, is one of Malawi’s well-known rising musicians, renowned for his hit song “Lira koma Uziyenda,” which resonates with many, including students.

This award is presented to students who demonstrate outstanding contributions beyond academics, carrying UNIMA’s name with pride and making a significant impact on the student community and the nation as a whole. Since its introduction three years ago, only two students have received this award.

Also present at the event was Mr. Bernard Kaluzi, representing Old Mutual, which partnered with the university for the ceremony. Mr. Chiluzi, a Finance Education Manager, delivered a presentation on money management, encouraging students to venture into business early and equipping them with the knowledge needed to build financial stability and independence. Old Mutual also pledged to continue supporting the initiative, reinforcing its commitment to empowering students.

One of the awardees, Mr. Emmanuel Julio Beyamu, a second-year Actuarial Science student, stated that his motivation to work hard and attain a high GPA stems from his desire and goal to graduate with distinction.

“I am very focused and goal-oriented,” he said. “At university, there are a lot of distractions, so avoiding them helps me maintain my performance. In my first year, I was on the Vice-Chancellor’s List, and this year, being on the Deans’ List proves the consistency these small actions are yielding.”

All the students received certificates signed by the Vice-Chancellor. Students who qualified for the Vice-Chancellor’s Award each received MK1,000,000 to support their studies, and, in addition, Old Mutual contributed MK150,000 per student.