Eleven students studying at the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) under TAGDEV 2.0 scholarships on February 6, 2026 received laptops and their bags to help them with their academic works.

Presenting the items, TAGDEV 2.0 Associate Program Coordinator, Dr Cecilia Maliwichi Nyirenda also hailed the interaction between the scholars and the program team, saying there was need for more engagements to share successes and challenges and jointly finding solutions.

“You are TAGDEV 2.0 program ambassadors as the first cohort of students under the program scholarships and the team is here is there to support your academic journey,” she said.

Dr Nyirenda also encouraged the students to save part of their scholarship money and engage in some entrepreneurial activity as the program promotes.

“Next year there is an opportunity for you to showcase some of your enterprises at an international forum and we would want you to have very competitive enterprises. We have experts to help you on this entrepreneurial journey,” she added, while encouraging them to use the gadgets for the intended purpose.

Apart from receiving the gadgets and interacting with the TAGDEV 2.0 Program team, the students were reminded about the university’s assessments rules and regulations, emphasising that the rules apply to all students, including the TAGDEV scholars.

One of the scholars, Sabina Kalimu, a first year Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology student, was very thankful for the laptops and the presentation on assessment rules and regulations.

“We will look after the gadgets so that they serve us throughout our studies. We have to admit that first semester was challenging with the many adjustments needed, especially for some of us who stayed home for some years without being in class. However, going forward, expect improved performance as we are now settled and have adapted to the rigours of academic life,” said Sabina, speaking on behalf of her undergraduate and postgraduate colleagues.

At the end of the interaction, the two sides enjoyed a meal together as part of bonding. More meetings have been planned to ensure that the scholars have a smooth academic ride.