Minister of Education, Science and Technology Honourable Bright Msaka, SC, has challenged graduates of the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) to use their knowledge, skills and creativity to develop innovative solutions that will contribute to Malawi’s industrial transformation.
Speaking on Thursday during MUST’s 7th congregation at the university campus in Thyolo which was held under the theme Innovating for Resilience: Science and Technology for an Industrialised Malawi, Msaka said government believes that the greatest investment any nation can make is in its people through education, research and technological advancement.
He said education, science and technology remain critical drivers of Malawi’s development aspirations, as they equip citizens with the knowledge and skills needed to create solutions, generate wealth and improve livelihoods.
The Minister said innovation has become essential in addressing global challenges such as rapid technological changes, climate uncertainty and shifting labour markets, adding that countries that invest in innovation are better positioned to create industries, jobs and wealth for their citizens.
He emphasised that industrialisation is not only about establishing factories, but also about adding value to local products, developing technologies that solve local challenges, manufacturing goods that Malawi imports and creating meaningful employment opportunities for young people.
Outgoing Vice Chancellor for MUST Professor Address Malata said one of the greatest achievements that she has witnessed during her Ten years of service is seing young people discover what they are capable of.
She said many arrived at the campas uncertain of what they will do but to this day they are leaving as engineers scientist ,innovators as well as leaders
She said the graduation ceremony is more than a celebration of academic achievement, but also a celebration of the sacrifices made by families, the commitment of lecturers and researchers, and the future contribution of graduates to national development.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.