The University of Malawi students disciplinary committee has penned Ekari Orama Mathuka and six others to face the committee on 20th October, 2022 on allegations that they subjected Student Representative Council Speakers to barbaric treatment including sexual harassment during yesterday’s meeting
This follows the release of the memorandum on Thursday,13 October 2022 from the office of Speaker which claims that the the speakers were subjected to harassment.
Speaking to Chanco News, the Deputy Speaker of University of Malawi students Association (UNIMASA) Parliament, Ethel Tambulasi confirmed about the development saying Mathuka and the other students have been called following their unacceptable acts against the speakers.
“Officials from administration called us to know what was happening, we even don’t know how the administration communicated with the ones who are seen to be ring leaders and they are called for a disciplinary meeting,” Tambulasi Said.
Tambulasi further challenged that the development has potential of silencing anyone who would want to speak about the general assembly on academic calendar.
Commenting on the matter, Ekari Orama Mathuka has said he cannot speak much on the issue.
” The charge sheet I have seen has no any sexual harassment case for any of the seven students,” Mathuka says.
Meanwhile, students in different Social media platforms are angered by the conduct of the office of the speaker threatening that if something happens to the seven the Speakers will be responsible.
Youth empowerment in action: Judith Msusa applauds success of Business Acceleration for Youth Project By Burnett Munthali, November The Director of Youth in the Ministry of Youth, Judith Msusa, has expressed her satisfaction with the impact of the Business Acceleration for Youth (BAY) project, describing it as a transformative initiative for empowering Malawian youth economically. Msusa commended the project during a visit to some grant beneficiaries who have successfully turned their ventures into thriving enterprises. Speaking during her visit, Msusa lauded the program for equipping young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to enhance their livelihoods. "The government is impressed with the youth who, through this initiative, have been able to increase their revenue streams. This not only enables them to live decent lives but also positions them as job creators for their peers," she said. Msusa emphasized the project's role in fostering a generation of self-reliant, innovative, and economically active young people. Adding to Msusa's sentiments, David Slane, Chief of Party for the project, expressed his own delight at the progress made. "It’s rewarding to see these young individuals demonstrating tangible successes as a result of this support. They are living proof of what is possible when young people are given the right opportunities and resources," said Slane. The three-year BAY project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is being implemented by the Alliance of Biodiversity International and the Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT). Focused on the districts of Zomba, Balaka, Chiradzulu, Chikwawa, Machinga, and Mangochi, the project aims to nurture the entrepreneurial spirit among youth by providing grants, mentorship, and technical assistance. During the visit, several beneficiaries shared their inspiring stories of transformation. One of them, a poultry farmer from Mangochi, recounted how the project’s financial and technical support helped her scale her business, enabling her to employ two additional workers. Another young entrepreneur in Zomba, specializing in agro-processing, highlighted how mentorship from the project helped him navigate market challenges and significantly increase his revenue. These testimonials reflect the project's profound impact on communities. Beyond financial gains, the BAY initiative is helping youth build confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose, all of which are critical for sustaining long-term economic growth. As Malawi grapples with high unemployment rates among the youth, the BAY project stands out as a beacon of hope. With continued support from USAID and partners, the initiative could serve as a model for youth empowerment not only in Malawi but across the region. Msusa’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to supporting programs that align with its broader vision of reducing poverty and unemployment. "The youth are the backbone of our nation," Msusa concluded. "Projects like BAY remind us of their untapped potential and the immense possibilities that emerge when we invest in them strategically." The success of the BAY project serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between government, development partners, and the private sector in addressing pressing societal challenges.
