By Chisomo Phiri
The Malawi National Planning Commission (NPC) and the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the implementation of the First 10-Year Implementation Plan (MIP-1) of Malawi’s 2063 Vision.
Speaking during the signing ceremony in Lilongwe, NPC’s Director General, Dr. Thomas Munthali, highlighted the importance of national collaboration in achieving the plan’s objectives.
He emphasized that MIP-1 aims to elevate Malawi’s economic status and help the country achieve most of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Dr. Munthali also stressed the need for Malawi to focus on exporting finished products rather than just raw materials to boost economic growth.
He praised the MoU, saying it will facilitate the effective implementation of the plan, as MUST has the necessary infrastructure and human resources to support its success.
In her remarks, MUST’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Address Malata, noted that the university’s role extends beyond producing graduates as it also aims to drive innovation and contribute to the country’s transformation.
She emphasized the need to utilize the talents of their graduates to transform Malawi in key areas such as industrialization, innovation, and technology.
Prof. Malata also highlighted that MUST has introduced new manufacturing engineering programs to support the goals of the 10-Year Implementation Plan.
The Malawian government is committed to positioning the country as a leading producer by 2030, and this partnership with MUST is seen as a vital step in achieving that vision.