Unicaf University Hosts Alumni Meet and Greet
Unicaf University recently organised a highly successful alumni engagement event aimed at fostering stronger connections amongst former students and establishing a future Unicaf University Alumni Association.
The event, held at the Sunbird Capital Hotel in Mulanje, brought together fifty esteemed alumni who actively participated in discussions and shared valuable insights. The event proved to be an excellent opportunity for networking and laying the foundation for a vibrant alumni community.
The event witnessed the presence of key representatives from Unicaf University’s academic and marketing departments, including Dr Robert Ridley (Vice-Chancellor), Dr J. Khimbi (Lecturer), Golden Banda, Andrea Chimwemwe, Roy Banda, and Preston Mkupu. The esteemed alumni guests contributed to the engaging atmosphere, with their collective experience and perspectives shaping the discussions.
Kicking off the evening, Andrea Chimwemwe, the Master of Ceremonies, delivered warm welcome remarks, followed by an opening prayer from Roy Banda. Dr Ridley addressed the audience, emphasising the significance of an alumni association. He highlighted the mutual benefits of establishing strong ties between Unicaf University and its alumni, as well as the potential for networking opportunities, employment prospects, business collaborations, and social initiatives.
During his speech, Dr Ridley expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response to the event, as the level of interest and turnout surpassed expectations. He acknowledged that due to the limited capacity, some participation requests had to be declined. Dr Ridley emphasised the importance of gathering feedback from the alumni regarding their expectations of an alumni association. He concluded by highlighting the upcoming introduction of the Bachelor of Education in Primary Education programme at Unicaf University.
Former student union president, Mr Enock Foster, then shared his educational background and personal journey as a Unicaf MBA programme graduate. He encouraged attendees to strive for excellence, reject mediocrity, and support those who face challenges in pursuing higher education. Mr Foster also highlighted the collective responsibility of educated individuals to contribute to the development of Malawi, as outlined in the Malawi 2063 vision.
The event further included a fruitful general discussion session, where alumni shared their expectations for the association, reflected on their Unicaf University experiences, and discussed their post-graduation journeys. Dr Ridley actively engaged with the participants and addressed several key points raised during the discussions. Some of the topics covered included the need for improved communication regarding graduation invitations, the importance of local marketing for short courses and certificates, and inquiries about the progress of Unicaf’s physical university campus construction and research initiatives.
Unicaf University is committed to nurturing lifelong connections with its alumni and values their ongoing engagement. The valuable insights gained from this event will contribute to the development of a robust Unicaf University Alumni Association, ensuring a vibrant and supportive community for all former students.
