Malawi Launches Grand Challenges Initiative to Support Scientific Innovation
Minister Wirima also encouraged girls to pursue science subjects, highlighting the education system's commitment to formulating policies that promote inclusivity in science education.
Lilongwe, Malawi – The National Commission for Science and Technology (NCST) in Malawi, in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) and the Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation), has unveiled the Grand Challenges Malawi initiative under the theme "Unlocking Strategic Investments Through Collaborative Research", writes Judgement Katika.
This initiative aims to bolster innovation among the nation's most creative scientists and advance research that addresses critical development challenges not only in Malawi but across Africa.
The launch event was presided over by the Minister of Education, Honourable Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima, M.P. Minister Wirima urged scientists to foster innovation across all sectors to help Malawi achieve its 2063 development goals.
She called upon stakeholders, including the private sector, to increase their investments in scientific research, emphasizing that such investments are crucial for the country's comprehensive growth.
Minister Wirima also encouraged girls to pursue science subjects, highlighting the education system's commitment to formulating policies that promote inclusivity in science education.
Gift Kadzamila, Acting Director-General for Science and Technology, noted that financial challenges often hinder innovators and researchers in the country.
To bridge this gap, Malawi and its development partners will allocate resources to support these innovators in addressing some of the nation's pressing challenges, ultimately facilitating the realisation of the 2063 development agenda.
Professor Manuel Kaunda, Board Chairperson for the National Commission, emphasized the importance of finding solutions to the many challenges faced by the country.
He stressed the need to build knowledge and develop strategies to advance the 2063 development agenda.
Several institutions participated in the launch and exhibited their scientific innovations, including the National Commission for Science and Technology (NCST), Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), Malawi Science and Technology (MUST), Mzuzu University (MZUNI), Innovative Power Solutions, and DEK Engineering. Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) and the University of Malawi (UNIMA) were also part of the event.