According to the press release dated 10th January, 2019  signed by Dr. Samson Macjessie Mbewe, the students have to apply for the grant which is at the tune of K500 thousand per applicant.

It further states that for one to be considered for this grant, they have to send an application letter through their institution with a stamp on it, a complete Master’s degree proposal and a letter of support from the main supervisor.

The Dean of Post Graduates at the University of Malawi, the Polytechnic, Dr Peter Mhagama welcomed the development saying that many students fail to finish their studies because of financial challenges.

“Most of our post graduate students are working but we cannot assume that everyone is working. This initiative will assist those who are financially struggling so that they may benefit from this scholarship,” Mhagama explained.

He further explained that the advert has been sent to the students so that they should apply in time.

“At Polytechnic we have students who reserve their places because of financial challenges since some are financing themselves. This delays their studies which should have been finished in time,” He added. 

Speaking on the sponsorship, a Master in Business Administration student Higga Mkandawire, welcomed the development.

“Most companies are failing to be productive because they lack people who have the expertise which are taught in different postgraduate programs,” Mkandawire said.

He further explained that due this program, students will be encouraged to study and complete their programs hence become productive in their respective work places.

A Master of Arts in Health and Behavior Change Communication final year student, Paul Mphepo, concurred with Mkandawire pointing out that it is a great initiative that will help improve research standards among post graduate students.

“Postgraduate research findings have the potential of contributing towards improvement, change in practice, operations and policies,” he explained.

Mphepo further outlined that government and the private sector can get more insights from the research findings and act on the recommendations.

“It will also motivate the students to conduct challenging and quality research to justify the funding and support,” Mphepo added.

Mphepo suggested that there is need for government to consider funding dissemination conferences where the students can share their findings to the general public.

Laurine Meke, another post graduate student also observed that it is a good development as it will enhance research in the country.

“We have for so long sang this song ‘Malawi is under developed’, how do we develop if we do not invest in new knowledge and research?,” She wondered.

Meke added that she wishes the Ministry of Education should extend this program to undergraduates and everyone interested in research.

She also asked the private sector to come in with this kind of sponsorship.

Applicants are advised to submit their application packages by email to kalizangomarosed@yahoo.com or valezimpita@gmail.com not later than 25th January, 2019.