UNIMA Engages Alumni on Industry Collaboration

The University of Malawi (UNIMA), with funding from the Skills for a Vibrant Economy (SAVE) Project, on 7th June, 2025 convened an interface meeting with its Alumni Association executive committee members at La Riviera in Mangochi. The workshop aimed to strengthen collaboration between the University and its alumni network, focusing on enhancing student employability through expanded internship opportunities.

In his opening remarks, the UNIMA Vice-Chancellor, Professor Samson Sajidu, said the primary objective of the SAVE Project was to intensify student internships opportunities. This initiative seeks to produce graduates who are not only employable but also indispensable in their respective fields.

Furthermore, the VC highlighted that the interface gives a platform for alumni, particularly those established in various industries, to offer insights and guidance on creating meaningful internship opportunities. Alumni working in the industry are uniquely positioned to mentor current students and help the University to design programs that are relevant to the market, aligning with real-world expectations in the process.

The workshop is part of broader goals of the SAVE Project, a five-year, $100 million initiative co-funded by the Government of Malawi and the World Bank. Launched in October 2021, the project aims to enhance access to market-relevant skills development programs, especially for women, in priority sectors like agriculture, ICT, energy and financial services.

UNIMA's engagement with its alumni is a testament to its commitment to produce graduates equipped with the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in today's competitive job market. By utilizing the expertise of its alumni network, the University aims to create a sustainable model for student development and industry collaboration.

Present at the workshop were the Project Lead, Dr Jonas Mwatseteza; Interim President of the Alumni Association, Dr Limbani Nsapato; executive committee members of the Alumni Association, including Vice President Anthony Fight Malunga, Treasurer Roseby Makawa, Secretary General Ester Harawa; as well as  SAVE project representatives Dr Tiyesere Chikapa, Dr Symon Winiko and Dr Samson Macjessie Mbewe and the alumni relations office; Mphatso Mollen and Zoe Ngongondo.