Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), through the Chemical Engineering Section, successfully delivered the second cohort of the Distillery Operations and Safety Training at Ethanol Company Limited (ETHCO) from April 11 to 28, 2026.

 

The training brought together plant operators, assistant plant operators, technicians, and filter operators, and focused on strengthening practical and technical understanding of ethanol plant operations. 

 

At the end of the training, facilitated by Associate Professor Hankie Uluko, MacPhancio Nkhoma, Chindikani Msiska and Jonah Nyirenda, participants were awarded certificates in recognition of their successful completion of the program.

 

According to Burnet Mulungu, Assistant Plant Operator under Fermentation and Distillation Process Operations, the training completely changed the way they approach their daily work. 

 

“Before, we could sometimes operate the plant solely by following procedures, but now we deeply understand the science behind each step, including mass balancing and process safety. We can confidently explain not just how to do something, but why it must be done that way, especially when it comes to safe plant operation and loss prevention,” he said. 

 

“Teamwork between our mechanical, electrical, boiler, and production teams is also going to improve significantly because we now speak the same technical language. This will directly benefit Ethanol Company Limited through reduced downtime, better efficiency, and a stronger safety culture.”

 

Mulungu also thanked his employers for organizing the training, and the MUST trainers for the expertise, clarity and engaging approach. 

 

“I highly recommend this program to any operator or technician looking to grow professionally, and to other companies seeking to upskill their workforce for real operational impact,” he said.

 

According to Associate Professor Uluko, MUST remains committed to supporting industry through practical, industry-oriented capacity building and technical training programs.

 

“The Chemical Engineering section is open to collaborating with other companies and institutions interested in similar specialized industrial training programs,” he said.