Speaking before the inauguration ceremony presided by the Vice Chancellor Professor John Kalenga Saka, the University Council Chair Rev, Dr Billy Gama congratulated the graduands for their hard working spirit.

Rev. Gama also recognized the vision of the Chancellor of the University of Malawi, the state president Professor Arthur Peter Muthalika and the government of Malawi for the support rendered in implementing higher education in the country.

“Through the Private Sector Investment programs and Skills Development projects, new infrastructures have been constructed in various colleges under UNIMA. These infrastructures will add value to the higher education,” he said.

He further added that the UNIMA council has been engaging in international relations in training and programs with the People’s Republic of China and the government of Egypt. 

These engagements will enable UNIMA staff members to travel to these countries for training and partnership with the Chinese Universities.

A University of Malawi alumnus Noel Chalamanda, who is the former Mayor of the city of Blantyre and a practicing lawyer, offered a motivational and encouragement speech to the graduands.

He started by congratulating the 610 students together with the staff of UNIMA for the job well done to organize this memorable event.

Chalamanda further advised the graduating students that the importance of education is not measured by the material wealth, but by what you can recreate and contribute to the world.

“Malawi has been labeled as the poorest third world country; therefore, I would dare you to be the crop that can turn around this. We have the opportunity to take Malawi out of hunger and disease. We are a generation that can educate Malawi on good governance and evils of corruption. We have the chance to make significant contribution to our country,” Chalamanda explained.

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Malawi Professor John Kalenga Saka before declaring the award ceremony open, expressed his gratitude to the State President for honouring him to preside over the auspicious occasion.

“Graduation ceremonies are always associated with anticipation and excitement to for the graduating students, family and friends who come together to celebrate the output of their efforts,” he said.

Professor Saka concluded by congratulating the 610 students, where he stated that 37.9% are female while 12 students got distinctions and five first class degrees. In addition, 152 students got credits, three have graduated with PhDs while 44 have graduated with masters.