A group of about six graduates from MUST were among the young engineers who attended the launch of the Women in Engineering Chapter under the Malawi Engineering Institution (MEI) on April 10, 2026.

One of the participants, Mtondera Vitu-Faith Manda, who graduated in 2025 with a Bachelor of Engineering in Manufacturing Engineering (Honours), said she attended the event alongside fellow MUST graduates Tamara Msachi, Brenda Kankuzi, Rachel Msanama (Manufacturing Engineering), Faith Masebo (Biomedical Engineering) and Fatima Nkundula (Chemical Engineering).

Manda said her passion for engineering started from a young age. Growing up in Malawi, she noticed many areas where better systems, infrastructure and innovation could improve people’s lives.

“Engineering felt like the right path because it combines creativity with problem solving and gives you the tools to build solutions,” she said. “I chose manufacturing engineering because of my interest in production, efficiency and contributing to Malawi’s industrial growth."

Reflecting on her time at MUST, Manda described her experience as both challenging and rewarding. She said the programme helped her develop critical thinking skills, teamwork and ability to solve real-world problems.

The Women in Engineering Chapter launch also gave her a moment to reflect on the journey she has taken together with other young women in engineering.

Manda added that being part of the Women in Engineering Chapter is more than personal success. 

"It is about representation, support and creating opportunities for women in a field where they are still underrepresented," she said, while encouraging young girls who may be considering a career in engineering to go for it.

“Believe in yourself and do not be discouraged by stereotypes. Engineering is not just about machines, it is about solving problems and improving people’s lives,” she said. “If you are curious, determined and willing to learn, then engineering is for you.”

The participation of MUST graduates at the launch highlights the university’s continued role in producing skilled and motivated engineers who are ready to contribute to national development.