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MUST on Thursday, 19 February, hosted an interface meeting with the University of Glasgow (UofG) at its Thyolo campus.
The meeting was aimed at discussing a new collaborative research project on disaster preparedness and response.
It focused on the project titled βBridging Malawiβs Spatial Data Gap: Validating Geospatial Tools for Inclusive Disaster Preparedness and Response.β
Supported through the UofGβs GCID Small Grants Fund, the project aims to strengthen inclusive early warning systems and improve use of geospatial technologies in disaster response, particularly in disaster-prone areas such as Nsanje District.
During the meeting, Dr Jiren Xu, Director of Research at the School of Social and Environmental Sustainability at UofG and Principal Investigator of the project, presented the goals, scope, and expected impact of the research.
He also provided an overview of the UofG and highlighted areas for long-term collaboration between the two institutions.
Representing MUST, Steven Gondwe, Co-Principal Investigator of the project, delivered a presentation about MUST and ongoing research on validating Machine Learning algorithms for improving disaster response and Early Warning.
He highlighted key initiatives such as the African Drone and Data Academy (ADDA), which demonstrates MUSTβs leadership in data science and emerging technologies in Africa.
The interface meeting provided an opportunity for researchers and staff from MUST to engage in discussions, ask questions, and identify further areas of collaboration.
It strengthened mutual understanding and reinforced the shared commitment to using research and innovation to address real challenges facing communities in Malawi.
After the meeting, the visiting team toured the MUST campus, including selected facilities and laboratories.
The visit not only deepened the partnership between MUST and UofG but also marked another important step in advancing international research collaboration focused on building safer and more resilient communities.