Unicaf University Malawi Celebrates Fifth Graduation Ceremony

Unicaf University held its fifth Graduation Ceremony on the 7th of August at the Bingu International Conference Centre, in the presence of the Deputy Minister of Education, Honourable Nancy Chaola Mdooko MP, and other distinguished guests.

502 Unicaf University scholars from 52 countries were awarded their Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral degrees, among them a large number of graduates who have completed their studies in French.

Speaking at the Ceremony, the Deputy Minister of Education acknowledged the innovative online delivery approach of Unicaf University, making higher education available to those who would not otherwise have the opportunity to study, underlining the Ministry’s efforts in promoting Open Distance and e-Learning at all levels of the education system.

The Hon. Nancy Chaola Mdooko MP said that Unicaf University’s programmes can help raise the percentage of citizens attending tertiary education in the country and added:

“I am particularly happy to note that a total of 34 graduands, 6 from Malawi and 28 international, are getting their doctoral degrees today. Doctoral research programmes lie at the heart of a future that incorporates innovation into our economic development and the Ministry seeks to expand support for research in our universities through our Science Technology and Innovation Directorate and the National Commission for Science and Technology. I am pleased to note that, since its first graduation, Unicaf University has produced thousands of graduates in different fields. I must commend the University for this tremendous contribution”.

The Vice Chancellor of Unicaf University in Malawi, Dr Robert Ridley congratulated the Class of 2024 and announced the registration by NCHE of a new Master’s in Public Health programme, which will start in 2025.The VC stated that the University aims to constantly expand its research activities because research leads to innovation, which is crucial for economic development and added : “At Unicaf University we seek to promote the connection between universities, innovation, business development and economic growth”.

The Chancellor of Unicaf University, Professor Joseph Kuthemba Mwale, stated that the University’s online teaching model is the future of education globally, adding “We look forward to contributing to Malawian national development, along with African and global development, through our students, our graduates, our teachers, our programmes and our research.”

Unicaf University’s Pro Vice Chancellor International, Dr. Elena Papadopoulou, underlined the power of education to transform the world. Addressing this year’s graduates she said: “You need to become the transformers of your society, your world. To lead and to innovate, to support your countries and safeguard their development, to create a better future for all’.

Three graduates expressed their pride and joy for graduating from an internationally recognised institution such as Unicaf University. They were: Ms Yankho Hilario from Malawi, representing all Bachelor’s graduates, Mr. Rams Mpale Ramazani from the DRC, representing all Master’s and French speaking graduates, and Dr Jaki Emmanuela Wasike-Sihanya from Kenya, who represented all Doctoral graduates of 2024.

After the award of degrees, confetti bombs were released in the hall, reflecting the excitement of graduates and their loved ones for the culmination of years of hard work and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their lives.

Written By Eva Koursoumba