The Malawi Research and Education Network (MAREN) demonstrated its ongoing commitment to strengthening technical education in Malawi by making a targeted donation of essential ICT equipment to Nasawa Technical College. The support, which included key tools such as printers and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), will enhance the college’s ability to deliver hands-on training, especially within its ICT-related programs. Though modest in scale, the donation is a meaningful contribution toward equipping the institution with practical resources that directly impact student learning experiences.

During the visit, it was observed that Nasawa currently lacks a dedicated domain and official website—factors that continue to limit its reach and visibility. MAREN expressed concern over this gap and reiterated the need for a functional online presence that can effectively showcase the college’s offerings and updates.

Mr. Yusuf Josaya, Principal of Nasawa Technical College, welcomed the donation with appreciation and highlighted its potential to enhance teaching and learning. “As you are aware, we are a TEVET provider, and one of the areas we offer within the Commercial Department is ICT. The provision of the printers and UPS will really transform the training we offer our students,” he said. He further explained that learners benefit more when theoretical concepts are complemented with practical application. “When you are just taught things, they don’t infuse within you as much. But when you apply the skills hands-on, that’s when a student becomes truly transformed. So, for training, this is really a plus for us.”

Mr. Josaya also pointed to broader benefits of MAREN’s continued involvement, especially in areas such as internet access and research capacity. “There is really a great difference,” he noted. “We are now capable of getting information there and then. Whether it’s our staff or students, we can research and access resources without any hurdles. There has been total transformation.”

The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between MAREN and Nasawa Technical College. Both parties reflected on the gains made through the partnership and expressed interest in refining the agreement to better suit the college’s current realities and future ambitions.

In his concluding remarks, Mr. Josaya expressed heartfelt appreciation for MAREN’s continued support. “To us, it’s an appreciation. We know that you have been our partner. There has been much that has been done between us. Looking at where we started and where we are now, we can see great progress. If this is going to be the trend as a nation, then for sure, Vision 2063 will be realized through these initiatives. As Nasawa Technical College, we are very privileged, very happy, and humbled by this gesture. For sure, we are looking forward to more through this relationship.”

This donation not only supports the immediate practical needs of the college but also aligns with MAREN’s broader mission and vision of equipping technical institutions across Malawi with the tools and infrastructure they need to thrive in a digital world.