Miss Malawi tells youth “skills beat AI”

Young Malawians hoping to survive an AI-driven future have been urged to rethink their priorities, with Miss Malawi Thandi Chisi warning that vocational and technical skills may prove more valuable than artificial intelligence in securing long-term economic survival.

Chisi made the remarks on Thursday during the closing ceremony of the 2026 National Skills Competition at Gateway Mall in Lilongwe, where young innovators gathered to showcase practical solutions and hands-on projects.

Addressing the gathering, Chisi said technological advancements should not discourage young people from pursuing trades, but rather motivate them to become more adaptable.

“We are living in an era where artificial intelligence is advancing faster than many of us imagined. But while technology may automate processes, it cannot replace human creativity, craftsmanship, problem-solving and the determination to build better communities,” she said.

The beauty queen backed her argument by pointing to the tangible impact of skills training through her Sustainable Fashion and Women Empowerment (SFWE) Initiative. According to Chisi, more than 600 women have been trained in tailoring, fashion, and design through the programme, with many going on to establish small businesses and generate household income.

“I have witnessed firsthand the power of skills. Through SFWE, we have trained over 600 women, and the results go far beyond the individual. When one woman gains a skill, she creates opportunities for her family, supports her children’s education, contributes to her community and strengthens the local economy,” she explained.

Describing skills development as a high-yield national investment, Chisi emphasized its generational impact. “A skill is not just something you do with your hands. It is an asset that nobody can take away from you. It is dignity, independence and a pathway to opportunity.”

The three-day competition, held under the theme “Showcasing Talent and Skills, Fostering National Growth,” was graced by Minister of Labour, Skills and Innovation Hon. Joel Chigona, MP. The event brought together government officials, training institutions, private sector representatives, and participants from across the country to demonstrate competencies in various technical fields.

The National Skills Competition is specifically aimed at promoting technical and vocational education and training (TVET) while encouraging excellence among trainees to help address youth unemployment and support Malawi’s broader development agenda.

Observers at the event noted that discussions around skills development have become increasingly vital as countries prepare their workforces for a rapidly shifting global economy.

“The future belongs to people who can create value. Whether through technology, engineering, fashion, construction or entrepreneurship, skills remain the foundation upon which successful nations are built,” Chisi said.

As the 2026 competition concluded, participants and stakeholders expressed hope that continued investment in practical skills development will help unlock economic opportunities for Malawi’s growing youth population.