The Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) held its annual Research and Innovation Week on August 11-12, 2025, under the theme “Driving sustainable growth for an inclusive and entrepreneurial Malawi”.
The event brought together students, staff, and sponsors to showcase innovative projects aimed at addressing Malawi’s socio-economic challenges.
In her opening remarks, Professor Nancy Chitera, the Vice Chancellor, emphasized that research should tackle issues such as poverty and healthcare while yielding tangible, impact-driven outcomes that will attract funding.
Throughout the first day, participants attended presentations from key speakers, sponsors, as well as innovation pitches from students. Notable innovations included Cash Tracking, Smart Farming, Smart Tourism Drone, and Monitoring Guard.
On the second day, Mrs. Pilirani Chuma, Managing Partner at Macdonald and Don Associates, delivered a presentation on “the legal landscape of innovation and entrepreneurship in Malawi”.
She highlighted the importance of ensuring that innovations are within the confines of the law, noting that any breaches could have consequences for the innovators.
Participants also attended various workshops and, research findings presentations. Some of the workshops include Women in Innovation, Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development: Hype or Hope, and Entrepreneurship.
These sessions provided attendees with practical skills, insights into emerging technologies, and guidance on turning ideas into viable businesses.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony celebrating outstanding achievements in research and innovation, with honors going to Malik Aboubakari, Praise Bondo, Taonga Mwapatsa, George Makina, Isaac Mofolo, and the WASHTED team for their exceptional contributions.
In his closing remarks, The Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof Ishmael B.M. Kosamu expressed appreciation to participants and partners, urging continued collaborations and partnerships to advance research and innovation at MUBAS.