The Vice-Chancellor of the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) has commended the Malawi Research and Education Network (MAREN) for its transformative role in shaping the educational landscape in the country.

Speaking on Monday during the opening ceremony of a two-day High Perfomance Computing (HPC) and Big Data Analytics workshop organised by MAREN, MUBAS Vice-Chancellor Ass. Prof. Nancy Chitera said MAREN has played a crucial role in enhancing the learning environment at MUBAS.

The Vice-Chancellor lauded MAREN’s dedication to empowering academic institutions, citing examples like the successful implementation of eduroam at MUBAS and the comprehensive training provided to ICT staff for IPv6 migration.

“The significant increase in bandwidth from 200 Mbps to an impressive 600 Mbps, following our transition to MAREN, has been a game-changer for MUBAS. This enhancement not only reflects MAREN’s commitment to advancing technological capabilities but also empowers our institution to thrive in the digital age. The transition to 600 Mbps has undoubtedly elevated our connectivity, enabling seamless collaboration, research, and learning experiences for our students and researchers.”

“Furthermore, the implementation of eduroam at MUBAS has proven to be instrumental in fostering a conducive academic environment. Eduroam not only ensures secure and reliable internet access but also allows our students and researchers to work efficiently, breaking down barriers and facilitating collaboration. It’s a tool that empowers our community to engage in impactful research and learning endeavors, aligning with our mission to provide a cutting-edge educational experience at MUBAS.”

The Vice-Chancellor also recognized MAREN’s role in fostering collaboration and networking opportunities through strategic partnerships, particularly with ASNET-AM, the NREN of Armenia. Such collaborations, she noted, contribute significantly to broadening horizons and advancing educational practices.

“I would like to take this opportunity to call upon the government to continue supporting MAREN’s crucial initiatives. It is my firm belief that with sustained support, MAREN will play an even more significant role in transforming the educational sector not only at MUBAS but across Malawi.”