Minister of Education Tours Construction Projects at the University of Malawi

The University of Malawi today, 3 July 2026, hosted the Minister of Education, Honourable Dr Bright Msaka, who toured several ongoing construction projects aimed at strengthening the institution's infrastructure and expanding access to quality higher education.

The Minister was welcomed by the University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Samson Sajidu, together with members of the University Management Team.

During the visit, Honourable Msaka toured the new administrative building, the Skills for a Vibrant Economy (SAVE) building which will serve as a teaching complex, and the CRAFS Building which will house offices and classrooms.

Speaking during the tour, the Minister expressed government’s sincere appreciation to the World Bank for its unwavering support in advancing higher education in the country.

He commended the partnership that has made the infrastructure developments possible and encouraged the University leadership, contractors, and consultants to maintain the momentum, work collaboratively, and ensure that all remaining milestones are delivered on time and to the highest standards.

Addressing concerns over the recent tuition fee increase, Honourable Msaka made an assurance that all students who are eligible for loans through the Higher Education Students' Loans and Grants Board (HESLGB) would receive adequate financial support to cover their tuition fees.

The minister emphasised that no eligible student would be required to pay the increased fees out of their own pocket.

In his remarks, Professor Sajidu said the infrastructure developments align with the Malawi 2063 by strengthening the country's capacity to produce a skilled workforce.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that the projects are increasing the University's student enrolment capacity while creating a conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and innovation.

Professor Sajidu added that the new teaching complex will accommodate approximately 1,800 students, which will significantly improve access to higher education and support the University's efforts to produce graduates equipped with skills relevant to Malawi's socio-economic development.

The Government of Malawi, with financial support from the World Bank, is implementing the SAVE Project through the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, Skills and Innovation. The project seeks to improve access to quality skills development and strengthen the country's human capital to meet labour market demands.

Although the SAVE Project was initially scheduled for completion on 30 June 2026, its implementation period has been extended to 30 June 2027 to allow for the completion of the remaining works and ensure that all project objectives are fully achieved.