INSIDE UNIMA- Know Our Academicians

Could you please introduce yourself, your position at UNIMA, and your department?

My name is Gowokani Chijere Chirwa, and I serve as an Associate Professor of Economics and Head of the Department of Economics at the University of Malawi.

What areas of teaching and research do you specialise in, and what initially inspired you to pursue this field?

 I specialise in teaching health economics, econometrics, and poverty studies.

My academic journey was initially inspired by my father. I admired the way he spoke about his international travels and experiences, which sparked my early interest in pursuing a career in academia.

Later, my passion for economics emerged in a rather unexpected way. A neighbour once bought a used pickup truck imported from Dubai. Curious about how he managed to afford it, I learned that he had studied economics. That simple discovery ignited something in me. I thought, “If economics can lead to that, perhaps it can lead to more.” From that moment, I was determined to study economics—and that decision has shaped the path I walk today.

 Can you tell us about your academic journey and what led you to UNIMA?

My educational journey began in the early 1990s at Bwerero Primary School in Nkhatabay, where I was first enrolled around 1991/92. At the time, I was living with my grandparents while my father pursued his PhD studies in Canada. My grandfather, the late Reverend Mwase, who also happened to be the headmaster of the school, firmly insisted that I begin schooling, effectively setting the foundation for my academic path.

After completing one class at Bwerero, I moved to Zomba to rejoin my parents. I spent one term at Zomba Sacred Heart Primary School before transferring to Zomba CCAP Primary School, where I completed two more classes. However, the majority of my primary education was completed at Mponda Primary School, where I studied from the intermediate levels through to Standard Eight.

Following my primary education, I was selected to attend Dedza Government Secondary School, popularly known as “Box 48 ” in Dedza. There, I completed Forms 1 through 4. I scored 7 points on my Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations, which secured me admission to Chancellor College, then the premier institution for studying economics in Malawi.

My decision to pursue economics was partly influenced by my environment growing up in Zomba. As children playing around the university campus, we would watch students enjoy what, to us, seemed like luxuries—French fries, sausages, bread, and half-chicken portions. These impressions left a lasting mark and subtly inspired my academic aspirations.

After completing my undergraduate degree in Economics in 2009, I enrolled in the MA Economics programme at the University of Malawi. In 2011, I joined the Malawi-Liverpool Wellcome Trust as a researcher, where I worked until 2012. Later that year, in December 2012, I was appointed as a Lecturer in the Department of Economics at the University of Malawi.

After three years of service, I was awarded a Commonwealth Commission Scholarship to pursue doctoral studies in Economics at the University of York in the United Kingdom. I completed my PhD in 2020 and returned home to continue contributing to the academic and research landscape in Malawi.

Are you currently involved in any research projects? If so, what are they about?

Yes, I am currently involved in several research projects. One of these focuses on assessing the extent of competition within Malawi’s cement sector. Another ongoing project explores the potential for financing healthcare through private sector mechanisms. In addition, I am examining various dimensions of the relationship between multidimensional poverty and financial inclusion, as well as the utilisation of antenatal care services. More recently, I have also been engaged in research assessing the impact of taxation on the consumption of illicit goods such as tobacco and alcohol, and their implications for non-communicable diseases

Have you collaborated with students or other institutions in your research?

I truly enjoy collaborating with students and other institutions. I particularly value working with students because it provides an opportunity for meaningful knowledge exchange. For example, I have worked with undergraduate students on topics such as multidimensional poverty and food security, and with master's students on research related to multidimensional poverty , food security and Resilience, inequalities in nutrition, opportunities , Immunisation and taxation of tobacco and alcohol .

What impact do you hope your research will have , locally or globally?

Although it's difficult to predict the exact direction of its influence, it is clear that the research is gaining recognition, as evidenced by coverage from outlets such as the BBC and Allen Dryfus. This visibility is a positive step toward the internationalisation of the university. Some have been used in policy space in the country, such as those to do with multidimensional poverty , just to cite a few examples.

What do you enjoy most about teaching or working in academia?

The most enjoyable thing for me is writing academic papers. It stimulates my thinking as I engage what others have done on the subject matter

What do you consider the most rewarding aspects of working with students at UNIMA?

Our students are among the nation’s brightest—first-class minds who represent the cream of the academic crop. This exceptional calibre means they require less polishing and are more challenging, as they naturally possess the intellectual curiosity to probe deeper into complex phenomena. They are not passive learners but critical thinkers who engage rigorously with ideas, compelling educators to explore subjects with greater depth and nuance before stepping into the classroom.

What inspires or motivates you in your work?

What I enjoy most is witnessing the transformation of students who initially knew little about a subject but, by the end of the course, can engage constructively with the material based on what they’ve learned. Beyond that, every day brings new intellectual energy—students arrive with diverse perspectives shaped by their exposure to various literature, making each classroom dynamic and thought-provoking.

Working in academia also offers unparalleled international exposure, unlike many other professions. Conferences, collaborations, and research exchanges provide unique opportunities to explore the world—an enriching aspect that is truly distinctive to academic life

What do you believe distinguishes UNIMA as an institution of higher learning — in the country?

One of the greatest advantages of working at the University of Malawi (UNIMA) is the academic freedom to work at your own pace, without unnecessary bulldozing each other. Unlike environments where rigid supervision dictates productivity, UNIMA trusts its faculty to deliver results—your output speaks for itself. Additionally, the university’s superior facilities enhance the teaching experience, providing an enriching environment for both educators and students.

Additionally, what sets UNIMA apart is its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering a dynamic academic culture. This cross-disciplinary approach makes it an exceptional hub for innovative teaching, research, and intellectual growth—a true haven for higher education

Is there a particular achievement or moment in your career that you are especially proud of?

Earning a PhD in a foreign land and the attainment of Associate professorship are highlights I am particularly proud of.

What’s one thing your colleagues or students might be surprised to learn about you?

Hahahaha-of course:

Looking back, my academic journey was far from smooth, from Standard 1 through Standard 2, I never officially ‘passed’ a class. Instead, my teachers would write ‘May try’ on my report cards, a phrase reserved for students who showed potential despite setbacks. At the time, I didn’t recognize what they saw in me, but their belief kept me moving forward. Even in college, I faced stumbling blocks, like scoring 36% in a course, yet I bounced back and eventually earned distinctions.

I struggled greatly with mathematics until the second term of Form 4, then, almost unexpectedly, everything began to click. That turning point taught me a powerful lesson: with genuine passion and determination, you can excel at anything.

Today, when I teach courses like econometrics, I’m constantly reminded of that journey. It's proof that growth is possible. Believe in yourself, your potential is far greater than you think.

These experiences taught me a powerful lesson: resilience and determination matter more than perfection. Success isn’t a straight path; it’s a journey of ups and downs, and what defines us is how we rise after the falls

How do you unwind after a busy week at the university?

My weekends are dedicated to rest and simple pleasures. I rarely go out, preferring instead to recharge at home. On Sunday mornings, I enjoy a quiet walk up Ku Chawe Mountain—a peaceful ritual that clears my mind. The rest of the day is often spent lounging in bed, savouring the stillness. When I’m not indulging in relaxation, you’ll find me chasing after my two little girls, Faith and Liko, filling the house with laughter and playful chaos. These small, cherished moments define my perfect weekend.