Unicaf University Signs MoU with MCM

3rd October 2024, Lilongwe, Malawi — Unicaf University is proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Media Council of Malawi (MCM) on Monday, 30th September 2024, at our campus in Lilongwe. This strategic partnership represents a significant step in strengthening the relationship between Unicaf University and Malawi’s media industry, promoting ethical standards, education, and professional development.

The Media Council of Malawi (MCM) was established as a voluntary, independent, and non-statutory institution tasked with promoting self-discipline among its members and addressing public complaints about media practices. The Council encompasses a wide array of stakeholders, including 56 media houses across Malawi, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), the Ministry of Information and Digitalisation, the Malawi Law Society, and numerous non-governmental organisations (NGOs), law enforcers, and other professionals in the media landscape. With 25 board members, MCM represents a large and influential network in Malawi’s media and communications sector.

The MoU was signed in the presence of several key representatives from the Media Council of Malawi, including:

• Patricia Kankhwani, Board Vice Chairperson
• Moses Kaufa, Executive Director
• Phillip Chinkhokwe, Programs Officer
• Steven Nkhoma, Communications Officer
• Mary Magangani, Programs Assistant

This partnership aims to foster collaboration in the areas of education and professional development, particularly by providing access to Unicaf University’s internationally recognised degree programmes through our robust online learning platform. MCM members and professionals across Malawi’s media landscape will benefit from the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills through scholarships and flexible learning options offered by Unicaf.

Speaking during the ceremony, Patricia Kankhwani, Board Vice Chairperson of MCM, emphasised the importance of continuous professional development for media practitioners. She lauded Unicaf for its commitment to empowering professionals with quality higher education.

Unicaf University Vice-Chancellor Dr Robert Ridley expressed enthusiasm for the new partnership, highlighting the critical role that education plays in shaping ethical media practices and fostering informed public discourse. “This MoU solidifies our commitment to supporting media professionals in Malawi through accessible, high-quality education,” Dr Ridley remarked.

As part of this partnership, Unicaf University will offer MCM members access to various programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These programmes will be delivered online, allowing media professionals to balance their studies with work commitments while advancing their careers.

This partnership marks a significant milestone in Unicaf’s mission to expand access to higher education in Malawi and to empower professionals across various sectors with the knowledge and skills needed for success.