𝐁𝐲  𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐥 𝐌𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐤𝐚 & 𝐆𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐝 𝐊𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐧𝐨

For the first time in its history, the Geo-Petroleum Sciences programme at MUST stepped out of the classroom into the public spotlight, with students hosting an inaugural Petroleum Symposium on May 15, 2026, at MUST City Campus in Blantyre.

The event, held under the theme of "Unveiling the nation's leading energy group," brought together final-year students, academic staff, and key industry stakeholders and focused discussions around issues of innovation, recognition, and future of petroleum in Malawi. 

The day also featured project presentations from final-year students and certificate awards ceremony for the outgoing cohort.

Five students presented their research projects, and three stood out with Ishainesu Mponda claiming the Best Project Awar; Rohinner Masanga finishing second and Aubrey Maosa coming third.

Speaking at the event, Mponda, who also serves as President of MUST Petroleum Society, described the symposium as a turning point. 

He said the occasion successfully showcased student talent while opening meaningful dialogue with industry players.

"This event exceeded my expectations in terms of turnout and engagement. It is a step toward closing the long-standing gap between academic learning and real industry experience," he said.

Mponda expressed gratitude to sponsors and called on more industry stakeholders to invest in future editions.

Executive Dean for Ndata School of Climate and Earth Sciences at MUST, Associate Professor Chikondi Chisenga, applauded the quality of projects on display and challenged students to carry the MUST brand with pride into their professional lives. 

Chisenga also urged them to apply their academic knowledge practically and to bring fresh, innovative thinking into the energy sector.

"In the past, students completed their studies without a clear picture of what petroleum looks like in the real world. This symposium has changed that. I also thank our sponsors for making this first-ever petroleum symposium a reality and hope they will continue to walk this journey with us," said Dr Chisenga.

Guest of Honour, Prescott Nkhata, Human Resource and Administrative Manager at National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA), commended the Petroleum Society for organising an event of such quality and substance. 

He challenged students to be driven by purpose, continuously build both character and technical knowledge, and position themselves as professionals the industry would readily recognise.

"Do not be complainers, be problem solvers. Learn to communicate your value clearly and with confidence. And above all, remain humble and eager to grow," Nkhata said.

The symposium drew support from NOCMA, Mining Solutions and MERA.

The 2026 Petroleum Symposium marks a defining chapter in MUST's growing effort to bridge academia and industry, reinforcing the university's dedication to producing skilled graduates ready to contribute to Malawi's industrialisation goals and the broader aspirations of the Malawi 2063 Vision.