This article was originally published on Malawi24 ">Malawi24, Malawi's #1 independent news platform. Mzuzu University is set to improve training and research in parasitology and disease vector control following a K105 million donation towards the renovation of its Diagnostic Laboratory. Old Mutual Malawi, through the Old Mutual Blantyre Foundation Trust, presented the money to the university during a ceremony held at Mzuni on Thursday. University Librarian Dr Aubrey […] Read the full article and
Mzuzu University is set to improve training and research in parasitology and disease vector control following a K105 million donation towards the renovation of its Diagnostic Laboratory.
Old Mutual Malawi, through the Old Mutual Blantyre Foundation Trust, presented the money to the university during a ceremony held at Mzuni on Thursday.
University Librarian Dr Aubrey Chaputula, who represented the Vice Chancellor, said the refurbished laboratory will address some of the equipment needs affecting students in the Parasitology and Disease Vector Control programme.
“As a University, we have a programme in Parasitology and Disease Vector Control, so the refurbishment of the laboratory will ensure that the programme runs smoothly because the students will have the required instruments,” Chaputula said.
He said the facility will also support research and training in areas related to disease vectors and parasitology.
Chaputula said the development is in line with the university’s focus on education, research and innovation and will contribute to the development of skilled human resources under Malawi’s Vision 2063.
The university also said the laboratory will be used for disease research and diagnosis within the Department of Biological Sciences.
Students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Parasite and Disease Vector Control are expected to be among the main users of the facility.
Speaking on behalf of the Old Mutual Blantyre Foundation Trust, chairperson Tawonga Manda said the organisation decided to support the project after being briefed on its potential impact on the university and surrounding communities.
“When they explained to us the impact that this diagnostic lab is going to have at the University and the surrounding community, we felt that they had a compelling proposition,” Manda said.
He said the renovated laboratory will have modern facilities to support diagnostic and research services for the university and other institutions and communities that rely on such services.
Chaputula also acknowledged Old Mutual Malawi’s previous support to the university, including its involvement in the Mzuzu University Mathematics Olympiad.
The renovation is expected to improve access to laboratory equipment for students and researchers while strengthening Mzuni’s capacity for disease-related research and diagnosis.
The university has not indicated when the renovated laboratory will be fully operational, but the K105 million contribution is expected to support the planned refurbishment.
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