By Elywin Chighali Mhango
The Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) marked a historic milestone in Blantyre with its first graduation ceremony, celebrating the achievements of 113 graduates—the inaugural cohort since the institution’s establishment on May 4, 2021.
The ceremony was graced by President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, who was officially installed as the university’s first Chancellor. The event also welcomed Deputy Minister of Education, Honorable Nancy Chaola Mdooko MP
Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, President Chakwera noted, “Only two months ago, I was here for the grand opening of the CREATOR building, and it brings me great joy to return and oversee the graduation of the first cohort of students from Kamuzu University of Health Sciences.” He commended the graduates, highlighting the critical role of KUHeS in enhancing healthcare and education in Malawi.
The President expressed confidence in the graduates’ potential to excel in their future endeavors, stating, “Those of you who have been part of this journey will undoubtedly use your opportunities to give back through service.”
A unique feature of the ceremony was the presentation of the original flying whisk of the late Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda, Malawi’s first President and founder, by the Chendawaka family, led by Honorable Ken Kandodo, MP. The University plans to incorporate this symbolic whisk into future graduations as a way for the Chancellor to bestow blessings on the graduates, symbolizing the elimination of ignorance and honoring Dr. Banda’s legacy in medical training and health care.
In his concluding remarks, President Chakwera urged graduates to strive for impact, confront corruption, and embrace their roles as healthcare patriots. “Rise above the ordinary and aim for greatness; your journey begins today,” he inspired.
Earlier in the program, Vice Chancellor Prof. MacPherson Mallewa urged the graduating class to apply their newly acquired knowledge for the benefit of the community. The event also featured attendance from notable figures in the education sector, including Secretary for Education, Associate Professor Mangani Chilala Katundu, and Director of Higher Education,
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