UNIMA Strengthens Leadership for Institutional Excellence and Transformation

The University of Malawi (UNIMA) has strengthened the leadership and management capacity of its leaders following a two-day orientation programme for Executive Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments and Heads of Centres, held from 13 to 14 October 2026.

Held under the theme “Leadership for Institutional Excellence and Transformation: Empowering Academic Leaders to Drive Quality, Innovation and Sustainable Growth,” the orientation brought together academic leaders from across the University to enhance their capacity to effectively lead and manage their respective schools, departments, centres and other units.

The programme focused on strengthening leadership, management and governance, while equipping leaders with practical knowledge and skills to contribute to quality teaching and learning, impactful research, innovation, good governance and sustainable institutional growth.

In his opening remarks made on 13th October 2026, UNIMA Vice-Chancellor, Professor Samson Sajidu, described the orientation as an important investment in strengthening leadership, management and governance as the University continues its transformation following the delinking of its former constituent colleges. 

Professor Sajidu reminded the academic leaders that their appointments represent more than recognition of their academic and professional achievements, describing the positions as a call to service, responsibility and accountability.

“You occupy positions that are critical to the successful implementation of our institutional mandate and strategic priorities. The orientation should therefore move beyond discussion and result in practical action and measurable improvements within schools, departments and centres,” he said.

He further encouraged participants to engage actively throughout the programme, share experiences, ask questions and identify practical solutions to the leadership and management challenges they face.

Among the key speakers was Hon. Eng. Dr. Matthes Mtumbuka - an engineer, Member of Parliament, entrepreneur, academic and corporate executive - whose presentation provided participants with insights into the interconnected roles of leadership, management and good governance, with emphasis on the responsibilities of leaders in promoting accountability, effective decision-making, institutional performance and organisational excellence.

The orientation also provided an opportunity for leaders to reflect on their roles in advancing UNIMA’s strategic priorities and translating the University’s transformation agenda into practical action within their respective units.

Through the orientation, the University has reinforced its commitment to leadership that delivers results, strengthens institutional performance and advances quality, innovation and sustainable growth in line with its mandate and contribution to Malawi’s development.