Othakarhaka Foundation and the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking an important step towards collaboration in education, innovation, research, and community development.
The partnership brings together Othakarhaka Foundation’s commitment to empowering rural communities with MUST’s expertise in science, technology, and innovation to create opportunities that respond to the needs of young people and communities in Malawi.
Through this collaboration, the two institutions will focus on promoting digital skills, entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, and sustainable development in Mulanje, Thyolo, and surrounding communities. The partnership will create opportunities for knowledge sharing, skills development, and initiatives that encourage innovation while equipping young people with the tools needed to participate in a changing world.
A key area of focus will be supporting digital inclusion and building capacity among young people through access to technology, training, and opportunities that encourage creativity and problem-solving. The collaboration will also explore ways to strengthen entrepreneurship and sustainable development efforts that contribute to improved livelihoods within communities.
Othakarhaka Foundation believes that partnerships built around shared knowledge, resources, and expertise are essential in creating meaningful change. Working alongside MUST provides an opportunity to connect academic knowledge with community-based experiences, ensuring that solutions developed are relevant and impactful.
“We are grateful to the leadership of MUST for welcoming this collaboration and for their commitment to working together towards creating opportunities for young people and communities across Malawi,” said Ida Puliwa Mwango, Executive Director and Founder of Othakarhaka Foundation.
Special appreciation goes to the University of Michigan Ross School of Business MBA students, Damilola Olupona, Achal Shah, Curran Aiyer, Zhiyun Kishi, Qiang, Katelyn Wandel, Omotolani Ekeolere-Landar, Darshanpreet Khosa, and Jessica Chang alongside their Professor, Ted London, for their support, insights, and contributions that helped strengthen the foundation for this collaboration.
This MoU represents a shared commitment to investing in education, innovation, and community development, while creating pathways for young people to gain skills and opportunities that can shape a more sustainable future for Malawi.
