Minister of Education, Science and Technology, Bright Msaka, SC, has urged Malawi to translate investments in digital connectivity into tangible improvements in education, research, innovation and national development.
Speaking on Thursday during the official opening of the 19th UbuntuNet-Connect Conference (UC2026) in Lilongwe, Msaka said digital transformation should go beyond the development of infrastructure, emphasising the need for digital skills, reliable electricity, affordable access, institutional capacity and sustainable financing.
He said Malawi’s digital transformation agenda must align with the country’s long-term development blueprint, Malawi 2063, by strengthening human capital, generating relevant knowledge, informing public policy and accelerating inclusive development.
Msaka highlighted the contribution of the Malawi Research and Education Network (MAREN), with support from Government and the World Bank-funded Digital Malawi Project, in promoting research collaboration, data sharing and innovation.
He challenged stakeholders to ensure that investments in digital connectivity translate into measurable improvements in the quality of education, research productivity and socioeconomic development.
The Minister, however, cautioned that technology alone cannot improve learning outcomes without competent teachers, appropriate learning resources, reliable electricity and accessible digital devices.
Meanwhile, Chairperson of the UbuntuNet Alliance, Professor Helicy Ng’ambi, expressed gratitude for the Malawi Government’s continued collaboration and partnership as the Alliance celebrates 20 years of advancing research and education networking across the region.
The two-day 19th UbuntuNet-Connect Conference, being held under the theme “Shaping Digital Horizons,” runs from 29 to 30 October 2026 in Lilongwe.
The conference brings together researchers, universities, policymakers, national research and education networks, industry representatives and development partners to exchange ideas, share experiences and strengthen collaboration in advancing digital transformation.
