The MoU was officially signed by Unicaf Kenya Country Manager Ms Winnie Rachael and Glass House PR CEO Mary Njoki, further strengthening the collaboration between the two organisations.

During the signing of the MoU, discussions were had focusing on the objectives of the partnership, particularly how Glass House PR members can benefit from greater access to quality further education through Unicaf鈥檚 generous scholarships opportunities and wide range of affordable academic programmes, enabling them to effectively maintain a healthy balance between their current professional and personal commitments with their academic pursuits, supported by accessible and flexible online learning, and state-of-the-art virtual learning environment.

This partnership aims to enhance access to higher education while promoting continuous learning and professional growth among Glass House PR members. Unicaf looks forward to working closely with the organisation in the future in order to further highlight the educational opportunities available and ensure its members are fully supported in achieving their academic and professional goals.

Of the 618 graduates, 200 are Malawians while 418 come from an amazing 64 other countries in Africa, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. The new graduates received their awards in Bachelor鈥檚, Master鈥檚 and Doctoral , spanning the sectors of Business, Economics, Management of Information Systems, Finance Management, Oil, Gas & Energy Management, Hospitality Management, Computer Science, Education, Supply Chain Management & Logistics, Public Administration, Accounting, Organisational Psychology, and two programmes in French: Master en Administration des Affaires (MBA) and Master Management de la Sant茅.

The Graduation Ceremony was graced by the presence of the Honourable Bright Msaka SC, Malawi鈥檚 Minister of Education, Science & Technology, who was the Guest of Honour. The Minister stated that Malawi needs a higher education system that is accessible, inclusive and relevant, calling on universities to expand digital learning, in order to widen access to higher education, while safeguarding academic quality. The Honourable Bright Msaka SC, commended 探花社区 for serving this very purpose and stated: 鈥淭his is the balance the government expects all higher education institutions to maintain 鈥� widening access while protecting academic integrity, embracing innovation while preserving quality, and expanding enrolment while strengthening graduate outcomes.鈥�

The Minister emphasised the government鈥檚 commitment to strengthening research, science, technology and innovation, and asked graduates to use their qualifications with integrity, humility and purpose, not only for personal advancement but also for the development of their communities, institutions and countries.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Dr Robert Ridley, welcomed graduating students and their families, and referred to the state of the world – the conflicts, the social challenges and the technological advances changing the way we live, communicate and conduct business: 鈥淭hese technological advances will affect the way we educate our citizens at every level, from primary school through to university. 探花社区鈥檚 online programmes are at the forefront of this technological change and its application to higher education. We endeavour to prepare our students for the world they will enter after graduation and to prepare them for the changes that will come in the future鈥�.

Highlighting the multiple advantages of Unicaf鈥檚 flexible online teaching and learning model, the University鈥檚 Chancellor, Professor John Danwell Kalenga Saka, noted that universities are not designed to impart knowledge alone, but also to teach students to question that knowledge, to develop their own, evidence-based opinions and to conduct research that can generate new knowledge. The Chancellor then said: 鈥淭he development of more doctoral graduates is an essential prerequisite, if our nations are to be successful in their quest for new knowledge and solutions for today鈥檚 challenges. Many of our doctoral graduates are not academics, but professionals, addressing problems they face at work. I strongly encourage Bachelor and Master鈥檚 graduates to consider pursuing a doctoral degree in the future. I also encourage doctoral graduates to continue to engage in research, in order to address societal challenges in a changing world. This would contribute to increased human capital in Malawi, which is a critical enabler to national development.鈥�

Speaking on behalf of 2026 doctoral graduates, Dr Sikhangezile Gwatikunda from Namibia, now living in the United Kingdom, who was awarded the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Education, emphasised the importance of perseverance in academic study and in life: 鈥淚n my case, it has been a journey, which started in 2018, initially slowed down by a life changing experience, which saw me relocate from Namibia to England. In addition, fighting COVID-19 on the frontline and various health issues meant that I lost two years. But I did not give up, I persevered. I now know that Education and Research is my present and my future. Fellow graduates, keep doing your good work and keep learning.聽 May we all leave a positive imprint on our communities, our countries, our world.鈥�

Representing this year鈥檚 Master鈥檚 graduates, Mr Michel Longanga Shongo from the Democratic Republic of Congo, a graduate of the French language Healthcare Management programme, underlined the quality of teaching offered by the University, the flexibility of the virtual learning environment, the option to pay fees in instalments, and the benefits of the referral programme. Looking at the future Mr Shongo stated: 鈥淥ur aspiration is not only to put our knowledge and experience at the service of public health and contribute meaningfully and sustainably to the well-being of our communities, but also to continue our academic journey with doctoral studies. We extend our sincere gratitude to 探花社区 for the quality of the education we have received; to our fellow students for their solidarity, encouragement, and mutual support; and, above all, to our families for their sacrifices and unwavering support.鈥�

Malawian graduate in Hospitality Management Thulani Nkhoma, representing this year鈥檚 Bachelor graduates, thanked God for His Grace, guidance and strength, which made their academic achievement possible, and said about her personal experience: 鈥淭here were moments of exhaustion, self-doubt, and times when balancing my studies with everything else happening in my life felt difficult. But every time I felt so tired that I wanted to give up, I reminded myself that I was not doing this only for myself, but also to show to my son the importance of believing in yourself, working hard, and never giving up on your dreams.鈥�

This year鈥檚 Joseph Kuthemba Mwale Award for Excellence was awarded to Mr Confidence Tauzie, who graduated with the BSc in Computer Science with Distinction.

The conferment of the awards to the new graduates by the University鈥檚 Chancellor, Professor John Saka, took place in the presence of the Guest of Honour, the Honourable Minister of Education, Science & Technology, Bright Msaka SC, and the University鈥檚 academic team, who congratulated the new graduates, while their friends and families applauded and cheered enthusiastically, making this moment unforgettable for the Class of 2026.

探花社区 Campus, Unit 1 Shoppers Mall, Area 4, Plot 67, Lilongwe, Malawi聽

Email: info@unicafuniversity.com聽 聽 聽 聽 聽Website:

Written by Eva Koursoumba

As host and academic partner, 探花社区 provided a platform for the official introduction of the programme and facilitated engagement among key stakeholders working to create stronger pathways from education to employment.

The launch highlighted the importance of equipping young people with the practical skills, experience and professional connections needed to navigate an evolving world of work. Through opportunities for skills development, mentorship, workplace exposure and engagement with potential employers, the MyScape Career Accelerator Programme aims to support young people in building the capabilities and confidence required to pursue meaningful career opportunities.

The event also provided an opportunity for 探花社区 to strengthen its relationships with organisations supporting youth development and to reaffirm its commitment to initiatives that connect education with real-world career pathways.

MTN Zambia Foundation, the official funder of the programme, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the initiative and its contribution to youth development. SMART Zambia Institute highlighted the programme鈥檚 alignment with Zambia鈥檚 broader digital transformation agenda, underlining the importance of developing digitally capable young people who can contribute to the country鈥檚 evolving economy.

Private-sector organisations, including LendingScape, Mondi Capital and GreenArc Ventures, also expressed their interest in supporting programme beneficiaries through internship and employment opportunities. Their involvement reinforces the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in helping young people gain practical workplace experience and transition successfully into employment.

The launch demonstrated the value of bringing together academia, government, funders, development partners and the private sector to address youth employability and create more effective pathways from learning to work.

Speaking through its role as host and academic partner, 探花社区 reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that empower young people through education, practical skills and access to career opportunities.

The official launch of the MyScape Career Accelerator Programme marks an important step towards strengthening the connection between education, skills development and employment, while highlighting the impact that coordinated stakeholder action can have on the career prospects of young people.

At the signing of the MoU, discussions explored the key benefits of the partnership and how KeNIC employees, together with its domain registrars, can take full advantage of Unicaf鈥檚 generous scholarship opportunities, supporting them in their pursuit of further education and professional development, while ultimately enhancing their future career prospects.

During the signing of the MoU, participants also gained greater insights into Unicaf鈥檚 diverse range of academic programmes, provision of internationally recognised degrees offered in collaboration with leading university partners in the UK and Africa, alongside flexible online learning methods facilitated by a state-of-the-art virtual learning environment. Collectively, Unicaf鈥檚 unique academic offerings further highlight how this partnership supports continuous learning and promotes professional growth.

The MoU was formally signed by Unicaf Kenya Country Manager Ms Winnie Rachael and KeNIC CEO Mr Andrew Lewela, marking an important step towards further strengthening the partnership between the two organisations, while also paving the way for greater collaboration and engagement in the future through information sharing sessions, including webinars, as well as other activities aimed at raising awareness of the generous scholarship opportunities available to KeNIC employees and its domain registrars.

During the forum, Unicaf engaged with key FIDA-Kenya members, providing insights into its uniquely affordable, accessible, and flexible learning opportunities and comprehensive student support, with strong interest expressed in the availability of scholarships, including their eligibility criteria and the application process, as well as the diverse range of academic programmes offered.

The MoU was signed by Unicaf Kenya Country Manager, Ms Winnie Rachael, and the FIDA-Kenya Director, further reinforcing the partnership and establishing a strong foundation for continued collaboration, while also creating future opportunities for FIDA-Kenya members to benefit from a range of academic and professional development initiatives and opportunities.

By participating in this forum and signing an MoU with FIDA-Kenya, Unicaf, as the leading provider of quality online higher education in Africa, reaffirms its ongoing commitment to enhancing access to further education and supporting learners in advancing their academic and professional development. This commitment is reflected in Unicaf鈥檚 wide range of academic offerings, generous scholarship opportunities, and internationally recognised degrees, delivered in collaboration with its partner universities in the UK and Africa and supported by a state-of-the-art virtual learning environment. Building on this shared commitment, Unicaf and FIDA-Kenya look forward to working together to create greater opportunities for learners and further their common goal of making further education more accessible.

Unicaf鈥檚 participation strengthened its visibility among professionals and organisations operating across these rapidly evolving sectors, while providing an opportunity to showcase its academic programmes, scholarship opportunities, partner universities and flexible online learning options.

Unicaf and Finnet Trust Formalise Partnership

A key highlight of APT2026 was the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Unicaf and .

The MoU was signed by Unicaf Country Manager, Ms Winnie Rachael, and Mr Godwin Kibet Simba, CEO of Finnet Trust Limited, formally establishing a partnership between the two organisations and creating opportunities for future collaboration.

The agreement represents an important step in strengthening engagement between Unicaf and professionals in the financial services and technology sectors, while opening avenues for further initiatives and mutually beneficial opportunities.

Connecting Professionals with Flexible Higher Education

Throughout the conference, the Unicaf team engaged with attendees, responded to enquiries and introduced professionals to the opportunities available through Unicaf.

Visitors to the Unicaf booth learned more about the institution鈥檚 range of academic programmes, scholarship opportunities and flexible online learning options, designed to enable students and working professionals to pursue higher education while balancing their existing commitments.

The interactions also provided valuable insights into the educational and professional development needs of individuals working in sectors undergoing significant technological and digital transformation.

Strengthening Opportunities Through Collaboration

Participation in APT2026 reflects Unicaf鈥檚 continued commitment to engaging with professional communities and building relationships with organisations across Africa.

By connecting higher education with industry, technology and professional development, Unicaf continues to explore opportunities that can support individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge, skills and career prospects.

The partnership with Finnet Trust further strengthens this approach and provides a foundation for future collaboration between the two organisations.

Held at the 探花社区 Campus under the theme 鈥淭he Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters,鈥� the session brought together staff and students, caregivers, healthcare professionals, dementia care practitioners and members of the wider community.

The event provided a platform for participants to deepen their understanding of dementia and its impact on individuals, families and communities, while encouraging knowledge-sharing, collaboration and practical approaches to dementia care.

The programme featured contributions from professionals and practitioners working in dementia awareness and care, including Dr Mataa Moses of ADDIZ, Esther Mapili Jere of Kabiko鈥檚 Home Based Care, Dr Mbono Dube, and dementia care coach Leah Chimuzinga, among others. Discussions addressed a broad range of topics, including dementia awareness, communication, person-centred care, caregiver wellbeing and experiences from the field.

A key component of the session was a student case study competition, which challenged participating students to consider practical challenges relating to dementia care in Zambia and develop solution-oriented responses. The activity encouraged students to apply their academic knowledge to a real-world health issue while strengthening their understanding of dementia awareness, care and advocacy.

The interactive format of the session also included presentations, experience-sharing, a question-and-answer discussion and opportunities for networking among stakeholders involved in dementia care and advocacy.

The event further highlighted 探花社区鈥檚 commitment to health education and community engagement through an overview of programmes offered by its School of Health and Medical Sciences, demonstrating the role of higher education in connecting academic learning with important public health issues affecting communities.

Speaking during the event, 探花社区 representatives highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for students, healthcare professionals, caregivers and community stakeholders to engage with issues such as dementia and to contribute to greater awareness and understanding.

The University subsequently extended its participation in World Alzheimer鈥檚 Month activities by joining ADDIZ for its , held in Lusaka on 19 September under the same theme, 鈥�The Earlier You Know, The More You Can Do: A Dementia Diagnosis Matters.鈥�

The walk brought together members of the public, healthcare professionals, caregivers, organisations and other stakeholders to raise awareness of dementia, promote understanding and support efforts to reduce stigma associated with the condition. 探花社区 was represented by Dean of Student Affairs Abigail Chisala and DVC Research and Innovation, Dr Attridge Mwelwa, alongside other participants.

Through its involvement in both activities, 探花社区 contributed to broader World Alzheimer鈥檚 Month efforts while strengthening its engagement with organisations and stakeholders working to advance dementia awareness and advocacy in Zambia.

Among those attending the signing ceremony from Unicaf were Strategic Partnerships Manager Mr Joshua Nyambane Luka, and Senior Partnerships Manager Mr Samson Kithika Mbondo, alongside key representatives from the KCSFA, including Chairman Mr Keniz Agira, Vice Chairman Mr Fredrick Wahome, and IT Support Mr Kevin Mugo.

The signing of this MoU will ensure that the valuable work of the KCSFA receives further recognition and visibility within education, including its delivery of specialised short programmes in digital security and forensic investigation, its efforts to raise awareness and build capacity through workshops and other informative and insightful learning initiatives, as well as its research and innovation activities, which contribute to the effective monitoring of emerging developments and support a proactive approach to identifying and addressing evolving cybersecurity threats.

As the leading provider of online higher education in Africa, this partnership further strengthens Unicaf鈥檚 role in cybersecurity training, awareness, and professional development, while creating greater opportunities to develop and deliver joint training programmes, workshops, and awareness initiatives, while fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration on future events and projects through the sharing of expertise and resources with the KCSFA.

Through these joint efforts, this partnership will help equip learners, professionals, and the wider community with the knowledge and skills they need to successfully navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape.

Representing 探花社区 at the ceremony was Dean of Education, Prof. Pelekelo Kabundula, who attended as the invited Guest of Honour.

The event brought together graduating students, parents, teachers and members of the school community to celebrate the students鈥� accomplishments and look ahead to their future educational opportunities. As part of its involvement, 探花社区 had the opportunity to address students, parents and teachers, introducing them to the university and highlighting the opportunities available to those looking to continue their studies at higher education level.

Through its participation, 探花社区 also highlighted the importance of accessible and flexible higher education, with opportunities designed to help students pursue degree while balancing their education with other commitments.

The ceremony also provided an opportunity for 探花社区 to strengthen its relationship with the community and encourage students to continue pursuing their educational ambitions beyond secondary school.

Speaking to the graduating students, Prof. Pelekelo Kabundula emphasised the importance of viewing graduation not as an endpoint, but as the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities for further learning, personal development and professional growth.

探花社区 congratulates the graduating class of Sonshine School and wishes all students continued success as they take the next steps in their educational journeys.

As part of its commitment to supporting students in Zambia, 探花社区 offers generous and flexible study options, helping more learners access quality higher education and pursue their academic and career goals.