By Charlie Mtambalika, LCC 3

The United Nations (UN) team in Malawi, led by Resident Coordinator Rabecca Adda-Dontoh, on August 8, 2024 visited the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) to introduce UN initiatives and learn from students' experiences on issues affecting the country.

The event, attended by MUST Vice Chancellor Professor Address Malata, Dean of Students Affairs (DOSA) Dr Kondwani Mkandawire, Students' Representative Council (SRC) president Alexander Kude, and other senior staff, was aimed to introduce the UN to young minds and learn about the challenges facing Malawi.

"We visited MUST to listen to students, which is a key part of our programme at the UN to engage with young people," said Ms Adda-Dontoh. 

“We wanted to understand their interests and concerns. By engaging with young minds, we can find innovative solutions to drive Malawi's development."

Dr Mkandawire, on his part, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, saying it would help the students to understand how the UN operates. 

“The UN has agencies that focus on youth volunteering, which is an excellent platform for young people to develop skills and shape their future," he said.

Mr Kude commended the UN for involving youths in national development and encouraged students to take action.

“As students, this is the right time to be innovative and address issues that will elevate all aspects of development. We've committed to conducting students’ elections free of handouts next semester, promoting leadership skills and innovation," he said.

The event challenged students to think creatively and develop innovative solutions for Malawi's development, aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The UN team's visit to MUST marks a significant step towards fostering partnerships between the UN and Malawian youth, driving positive change and sustainable development in the country.