The MoU aimed at providing industrial attachment opportunities to both academic staff and students so that they should have a hands on experience.

The MoU states quite a number of areas which in the long run will benefit the nation as a whole.

Among others, The Polytechnic will be collaborating with CEAR in research projects that will be used to address the challenges that both academia and industry are facing.

Furthermore, the MoU also give an opportunity to CEAR’s staff to be trained by experts from The Polytechnic.

Apart from giving an opportunity to the students to go for industrial attachments, the MoU also stated that CEAR’s various professionals will be coming to deliver public lectures at the institution.

Speaking during the MoU signing ceremony, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Dr Gregory Gamula said he was excited and glad to partner with CEAR as it will balance the two institutions in various activities. Gamula further appreciated and thanked the gesture shown by CEAR

“As University of Malawi, we are glad to have this arrangement with Central East African Railways as through it will enable us to enhance activities that have been happening in the past. Furthermore, we will also make sure that we are going ahead with other aspects, among others organising a short training session to the Polytechnic community,” he said.

He further said The Polytechnic will be requesting CEAR Management to provide its technical personnel to give various talks to the students.

On his part, CEAR’s Director of Operations, Gustavo Stein said research is a vital tool for any industry to grow. 

Stein further said the MoU also highlighted their involvement in addressing skills gap that exist among the corporate world and the academia.

“We need to periodically assess our industrial needs and see if we have the right skills and at the same time give input to The Polytechnic course content for the benefit of each party,” he said.

He further added that they are looking forward to work with The Polytechnic in various great projects.

“We as CEAR, are excited to partner with one of the best institutions in Malawi in the Engineering field, “he added.

The CEAR internship program will benefit both students and academic staff of all five Faculties at the institution.