Bioinformatics Unit Hosts Inspiring MSc Bioinformatics Student Open Day
Bioinformatics Unit Hosts Inspiring MSc Bioinformatics Student Open Day
The Biomedical Sciences Department’s Bioinformatics Unit hosted a successful and engaging MSc Bioinformatics Student Open Day at Bliss and Honey, marking a significant milestone in the academic journey of its students.
Executive Dean School of Life Sciences and Allied Health Professions (Slahp) Associate Professor Arox Kamg’ona said the Open Day was aimed at promoting knowledge exchange between students, teachers and researchers from Bioinformatics and Computational Biology fields.
Two cohorts—first-year and second-year students—presented their projects, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of research within the bioinformatics domain.
Speaking on behalf of the dean Head of Department, Dr. Jana, congratulated the students on their achievements and acknowledged the dedication required to reach this milestone.
“Today, you’ll have the chance to share your research ideas with your peers, supervisors, and other faculty members. This is an excellent opportunity to receive feedback, refine your ideas, and prepare for the next stage of your research journey,” he said.
Dr. Jana emphasized the department’s unwavering commitment to fostering student research and innovation in bioinformatics.
“To our students, we extend our sincerest gratitude for your outstanding presentations. Your enthusiasm and dedication to research have been truly impressive. To our esteemed academic colleagues, we thank you for sharing your expertise and providing constructive feedback,” he added.
Dr. Benjamin Kumwenda, Team Lead for Bioinformatics, further commended the students, highlighting the importance of collaboration between supervisors and students in addressing the issues raised during presentations.
“I am delighted that we could gather today. This is a remarkable achievement, and as I listened to the presentations, it reinforced my belief that better collaboration between students and supervisors will enhance our research outcomes,” he remarked.
Among the presenters, [insert student name] expressed their thoughts on the experience.
“[Insert quote or insight from the student],” he said.
The Open Day provided a dynamic environment for knowledge exchange, fostering collaboration and innovation in the field of bioinformatics. The contributions from academic colleagues who shared their expertise and offered feedback were invaluable in guiding students on their research paths.
By nurturing such engagement and collaboration, the Biomedical Sciences Department continues to cultivate a thriving academic environment that empowers students to lead the way in bioinformatics and biomedical research, paving the path for future advancements in healthcare.
Stakeholders Discuss HIV/AIDS Sustainability in Malawi
Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), through its Health and Economic Policy Unit (HEPU), brought together various stakeholders to discuss sustainable options for addressing HIV/AIDS in Malawi, particularly in light of the recent aid freeze from the United States and other governments.
The discussions took place during the 15th Think Tank session, aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of the critical challenges surrounding HIV/AIDS sustainability.
Associate Professor Adamson Muula, speaking on behalf of the Executive Dean of the School of Global and Public Health, emphasized the significance of the gathering in exploring potential solutions through presentations focused on health impact systems.
“Ultimately, we will engage in a guided plenary session where we will collectively identify and prioritize the evidence needed to develop effective and sustainable strategies for Malawi’s HIV/AIDS response,” he stated.
Samson Ndolo, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health, commended KUHeS for its foresight and strategic leadership in bridging evidence and policy, noting the timeliness of the Think Tank.
“As we progress into Part B of the Roadmap, locally grounded, policy-responsive evidence will be increasingly vital. The decisions we face will be complex and, at times, difficult. We will require timely data, robust modeling, transparent costing, and credible scenario analysis to ensure our decisions are not only strategic but also equitable,” he remarked.
Ndolo also expressed concern over the aid freeze, which he described as occurring at a critical juncture for the ministry, just as it was making significant strides in advancing the HIV sustainability agenda and the development of the first part of the HIV Sustainability Roadmap.
“Malawi’s HIV response has seen remarkable achievements over the past two decades, including a dramatic reduction in new infections and AIDS-related deaths. We’ve met the 95–95–95 targets ahead of global timelines. However, this success hinges on a structural vulnerability: our heavy reliance on external funding,” he noted.
HEPU Director Professor Joseph Mfutso-Bengo considered the Think Tank a success, stating its purpose was to assess the impact of the funding withdrawal and determine appropriate actions.
“The Think Tank is designed to evaluate the immediate effects of the funding cuts and to explore strategies moving forward. Given that our resource envelope has narrowed, we must conduct efficiency analyses to minimize waste. It is essential that we integrate services and harmonize systems to optimize health outcomes,” he concluded.
Orientation Week 2025: Celebrating Unity and Aspirations at KUHeS
Orientation week is a cherished tradition at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), and this year has been no exception. The university’s campuses are buzzed with excitement as students from diverse backgrounds come together for the first time, each filled with dreams and aspirations for their future in health sciences.
As they embarked on this new chapter, future doctors, nurses, public health experts, and pharmacists brought with them unique stories and perspectives that enrich the vibrant KUHeS community.
The energy was palpable as students gathered at the Sports Complex and auditorium, greeted warmly by enthusiastic smiles and cheers from faculty members, current students, and staff.
Dr. Benjamin Kumwenda, the Director of Student Affairs, alongside the five Executive Deans, welcomed the new students with inspiring words, expressing pride in having them join the KUHeS family.
Dr. Kumwenda emphasized that this journey extends beyond academics, stressing that it will also shape their personal and professional lives.
“As you begin this journey you will need the support of your family and everyone around you. You will need their understanding because mixing the pressures of other things and academic pressure may give you a tough time. We welcome yiu and wish you all the best,” he said.
Dr John Phuka Chair of Executive Deans who is also Executive Dean of the School of Global and Public Health tasked the student to develop a culture of excellence that KUHeS aspires.
“As I walked into this complex, I was happy to see you seated this is a sign of strong attitude matching with the excellence that we want. I want you to continue on this path and we will make sure that we give you excellence in all that we do,” he said.
Throughout the orientation, students engaged in discussions about resilience, ethical practice, and the importance of lifelong learning in the healthcare field. The faculty reinforced the message that challenges should be embraced as opportunities for growth, empowering students to navigate their educational journey with confidence.
As the week progressed, filled with varied emotions, the students began to forge connections despite hailing from different corners of the country and beyond. By the end, they were united under the KUHeS banner—a diverse community dedicated to health sciences and committed to making a meaningful impact in the world.
The conclusion of orientation week marked not just the beginning of an academic journey but the formation of lifelong friendships and networks.
KUHeS Launches Herbal Tree Planting Initiative at Kameza Campus
In a remarkable effort to fuse health and environmental sustainability, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), led by its Chairperson Professor Sosten Chiotha, embarked on an inspiring herbal tree planting initiative at its Kameza Campus in Blantyre.
As awareness grows about the interconnectedness of health and the environment, this innovative venture stands as a testament to KUHeS’s commitment to nurturing both domains.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor MacPherson Mallewa, expressed pride in this initiative, highlighting its alignment with the university’s plans to introduce a Bachelor of Herbal Medicine program.
This new program aims to enrich the existing body of traditional health practices, integrating herbal knowledge into the academic landscape.
“By weaving herbal medicine into our educational framework, we aspire to equip our students with a comprehensive understanding that harmonizes traditional healing methods with contemporary medical practices,” Professor Mallewa stated.
The event was not just about planting; it was also a moment of collaboration. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between KUHeS and the National Herbarium and Botanic Gardens of Malawi (NHBGM), which generously donated a variety of herbal trees for the cause.
Dr. Zacharia Magombo, the Director General of NHBGM, underscored the initiative’s pivotal role, highlighting the alarming endangerment of many herbal species.
“This endeavor represents a commendable step toward preserving our invaluable herbal plants, ensuring their availability for generations to come,” Dr. Magombo remarked.
Recognizing that health encompasses physical, mental, and environmental dimensions, this initiative illustrates that healing begins in the very roots of nature.
KUHeS is not merely planting trees; it is sowing the seeds of knowledge, sustainability, and wellness, lighting the way toward a healthier tomorrow.
Kuhes and SARIMA Partner to Advance Research Management and Innovation Systems Capacity
KUHES AND SARIMA PARTNER TO ADVANCE RESEARCH MANAGEMENT AND INNOVATION SYSTEMS CAPACITY
KUHeS engaged a delegation from the Southern Africa Research and Innovation Management Association (SARIMA) under a partnership aimed at strengthening the university’s research and innovation management.
The SARIMA team sought to monitor the progress of key capacity strengthening activities in Grant Management Accreditation where SARIMA and KUHeS reviewed the university’s ongoing efforts to attain KPMG accreditation which will enhance competitiveness in securing funding. The engagement also discussed KUHeS’s participation in international research and innovation conferences which has raised the institution’s profile and opened doors for collaborative opportunities with peers from the SADC region.
In addition, another topic of discussion was the progress on the development of data-driven dashboards designed to improve the monitoring and evaluation of research projects, funding streams and institutional outputs. On the other hand, the delegation evaluated KUHeS’s Science Communication function and emphasis was put on ensuring that research findings are effectively disseminated to policymakers, stakeholders and the general public for data informed decision making.
“It’s about building a sustainable research culture that is visible, credible, and impactful,” said Doug Sanyahumbi, SARIMA’s Research and Innovation Consultant.
On the other hand, the discussions also explored institutional governance, researcher support systems, and professional development opportunities for administrative staff. Additionally, the visit opened new avenues for collaboration, including potential staff exchanges, technical training workshops, and co-hosting regional research events focused on advancing best practices in research administration.
KUHeS enhances Bachelor of Dental Surgery Programme
As one of way of enhancing the Bachelor of Dental Surgery programme the department of Oral Health under the School of Oral Medicine undertook conducted a comprehensive curriculum review.
This initiative, led by Professor Wakisa Mulwafu, School of Medicine and Oral Health Executive Dean aims to shapern the educational framework that will guide the program’s trajectory for the next five years. This review came at a pivotal moment as the department prepares to celebrate the graduation of its first dental surgeons trained entirely within Malawi.
During the review discussions, Dr. James Mchenga, Acting Head of the Department of Oral Health, addressed some of the challenges facing the department.
He emphasized the pressing need for adequate equipment to facilitate practical training for students, highlighting that access to modern and comprehensive resources is essential for delivering high-quality dental education.
The significance of this curriculum review was underscored by Dr. Ishmael Nyirenda of the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), who remarked on the timeliness of the initiative.
“It is actually good that this review is happening now; so much has happened, and so much will be done to make the programme better. Considering that it coincides with the graduation of the first cohort, it is a very commendable effort. We are now realizing how essential this program is for Malawi, and it could not have come at a more opportune time,” he stated.
Furthermore, Dr. Nitta Chinyama, Deputy Director of Clinical & Rehabilitative Services at the Ministry of Health, announced that the government has already secured funding to support internships for the graduating cohort.
This funding initiative will provide essential practical experience, enabling graduates to apply their knowledge in real-world clinical settings.
The curriculum review is not merely an academic exercise; it serves as a crucial effort to align the educational offerings with the evolving needs of the healthcare sector in Malawi.
With the first cohort of dental surgeons poised to graduate [this April], this comprehensive review will ensure that the Bachelor of Dental Surgery programme not only meets local standards but also adheres to international best practices—ultimately contributing to better oral health outcomes for communities across Malawi.
KUHeS Conducts Council Corporate Governance Orientation Workshop
Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) recently hosted a Council Corporate Governance Orientation workshop, attended by the University’s Council members, management, and other staff.
The workshop featured presentations from KUHeS management on the University’s vision and strategic plans, alongside facilitations from representatives of the Department of Statutory Corporations and the Office of the Director of Public Officers Declaration.
In his opening remarks, the Chairperson of the KUHeS Council, Professor Sosten Chiotha, emphasized the importance of the orientation for the university’s ongoing development.
“As a new university formed through the merger of two colleges, it is essential that we align our ideas, mission, vision, and future goals. This workshop aims to harmonize our thinking and approaches to ensure efficient delivery and better service to the nation. To achieve this, we must implement new policies, strategic plans, and establish a solid relationship between Council members and management,” he said.
KUHeS Vice Chancellor, Professor Macpherson Mallewa, provided an overview of the University’s history and its future aspirations.
“At the core of KUHeS is a commitment to lead in providing excellent health education and research services to Malawi and the broader region. We envision operating a high-tech hospital in the future to address many of the health challenges currently facing the country and the region,” he stated.
KUHeS Deputy Vice Chancellor, Associate Professor Belinda Gombachika, presented the University’s newly launched 10-year strategic plan, outlining key objectives and initiatives for the future.
Government department facilitators covered a range of topics, including the roles and responsibilities of government bodies, council and committee meetings, council remuneration, staff performance management, the parastatal budgeting process, and the use of balanced scorecards for evaluation.
This workshop served as an essential platform for reinforcing the governance framework and strategic direction of KUHeS.
Press Release – Fraudsters Alert
Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS)has noted with concern the wave of fraudsters who are preying on prospective and current students. The students are being asked to pay tuition, accommodation and other fees through TNM Mpamba and Airtel Money to phone accounts that are not for the University.
KUHeS management would like to advise the general public that the University does not receive money through TNM Mpamba or Airtel Money. All official payments to the University go through the University’s bank accounts whose details are formally communicated in our official press releases and admission letters to all students. The University will continue to use its official communication channels that have always been used. Students are therefore being advised to report to the nearest police station if they suspect any fraudulent activities.
Further note that NO PERSON is mandated to solicit money on behalf of the University through any means other than the ones officially communicated.
For more information, please contact the Registrar on either 01 810 911/01 811 286 or registrar@kuhes.ac.mw
MANAGEMENT
KUHeS Career Talk Inspires Students at Likuni Boys Secondary School
Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) recently had the honor of engaging with students at Likuni Boys Secondary School through an impactful career talk aimed at empowering them to make informed decisions about their future paths.
The KUHeS delegation, led by Siphiwe Lino, Assistant Registrar for Academics, delivered an inspiring presentation that provided a detailed overview of the diverse programs offered across the university’s five schools.
She emphasized the critical importance of excelling in science subjects, as this foundation is essential for those aspiring to join KUHeS, a prestigious institution known for producing highly skilled health professionals.
“KUHeS is not only an academic institution but also a thriving community of health professionals dedicated to making a meaningful impact on society. With commitment and hard work, you have the opportunity to join this global network of health practitioners and contribute to a healthier future for all,” Lino said.
A standout moment of the event was the introduction of various programs offered at KUHeS, which fueled the students’ interest, particularly in fields traditionally considered female-dominated, such as the School of Nursing and the School of Maternal, Neonatal, and Reproductive Health.
The presence of Dr. Rodwell Gundo, a male nurse and midwife, served as a powerful example that both men and women can excel in these professions, thereby challenging stereotypes and encouraging students to pursue their dreams without hesitation.
Deputy Head Teacher of Likuni Boys Secondary School, Joshua Kholowa, commended KUHeS and other universities for their proactive outreach, describing the career talk as a crucial preparation for the Form Four students regarding career guidance and an encouragement for younger learners.
Kholowa remarked, “Many of our students come from diverse backgrounds, often lacking role models. Initiatives like this are vital for providing guidance and inspiration. We invited universities to share their insights and experiences to motivate the students. It’s essential for learners in all classes to understand what steps they can take now to shape their academic futures. They must work diligently in all subjects.”
The KUHeS team, which included Dr. Bertha Chakhame, Aaron Nahuku, and Arthur Bunyani, aimed to sensitize the students to the plethora of opportunities available in the fields of health and allied sciences.
This enlightening career talk not only provided valuable information about potential career pathways but also instilled hope and motivation among the students, inspiring them to envision bright futures in the health sector.
KUHeS Confers Certificates to MDF Nurses and Anaesthetists after speciliased training
The Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), through its School of Nursing, proudly awarded certificates to 29 Malawi Defence Force (MDF) nurses and anaesthetists who successfully completed an intensive four-week training program in Emergency, Critical, and Operative Care.
The cohort of 29, which included 17 nurses and 2 anaesthetists, hails from various military units across the country. Their specialized training is part of an ongoing effort to enhance their clinical expertise, preparing them to manage a Level II hospital in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where they will be deployed to support MDF operations.
Executive Dean School of Nursing Associate Professor Genis Chorwe said he was happy that the School of Nursing was able to provide such training to the men and women in uniform who get to serve in the country and beyond.
Prof. Chorwe said what is more exciting is how the soldiers from Malawi stand out saying reports they receive indicate they perform very well.
“This is not the first cohort we have trained. And it is comforting and encouraging that these people we train perform very well when they are deployed outside the country to offer services. This not only reflects well on KUHeS as an institution of excellence but it goes to show how as a country, we dedicate ourselves when situation demands. We hope to continue such kinds of partnerships to improve on the health service delivery,” he said.
During the ceremony, KUHeS Vice Chancellor Professor Mac Mallewa lauded the initiative, emphasizing the importance of such skills in strengthening both the national and regional healthcare systems.
“In recent years, Malawi has faced numerous emergencies that underscore the need for highly trained professionals in emergency care. Like many other African nations, we are confronting a dual burden of non-communicable and communicable diseases, which lead to critical illness. Moreover, trauma-related injuries remain a significant cause of death and disability among our youth,” he noted.
Prof. Mallewa further acknowledged the ongoing collaboration between KUHeS, the Ministry of Health, and the MDF.
“This marks the third cohort of MDF personnel to be trained at KUHeS, following successful outcomes from the first two groups trained in 2021 and 2022. We are pleased to hear that these alumni have excelled in their roles in the DRC. We hope this partnership continues to flourish for the benefit of our institutions and our nation,” he added.
Brigadier Dr. Kingsley Magomero, the Commandant for Military Health Services, emphasized the importance of continual professional development.
“Medicine is a craft that requires constant honing. Like athletes who train to improve their skills, we must always strive to better ourselves. Our soldiers have consistently been praised for their exceptional work, and this training will further enhance their abilities,” he said.
James Manyetela, the Principal Secretary for Administration in the Ministry of Health, also expressed his support for the program, underscoring how it contributes to strengthening the healthcare system both in Malawi and beyond.
The participants gained hands-on experience at Kamuzu Central Hospital, working in critical areas such as the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, and Theatre—ensuring they were well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
This training initiative reflects the growing importance of skilled healthcare professionals in both national and international settings, reinforcing the value of partnerships that improve the quality of care in Malawi and across the African continent.
To ensure that the participants gained practical experience, the training included hands-on exposure at Kamuzu Central Hospital, where they worked in critical areas such as the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, and operating theatre.
