The Minister of Education, Science and Technology Honourable Bright Msaka SC has called for Malawi to translate investments in digital connectivity into measurable 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 requires more than infrastructure, stressing the need for digital skills, reliable electricity, affordable access, institutional capacity and sustainable financing.
Msaka said Malawi’s digital transformation agenda must align with Malawi 2063 by strengthening human capital, generating relevant knowledge, informing public policy and accelerating inclusive development.
He highlighted the contribution of the Malawi Research and Education Network (MAREN), supported by Government and the World Bank-funded Digital Malawi Project, in facilitating research collaboration, data sharing and innovation
He challenged stakeholders to demonstrate how these investments are improving educational quality, research productivity and socioeconomic outcomes.
He, however, cautioned that technology alone cannot improve learning outcomes without competent teachers, appropriate learning resources, reliable electricity and accessible devices.
Chairperson of UbuntuNet Alliance, Professor Helicy Ng’ambi, ,expressed gratitude for the government of Malawis continued collaboration and partnership as it celebrates 20 years of advancing regional research and education networking.
The two-day conference, which is being held under the theme Shaping Digital Horizons, is running from 29 to 30 October 2026, and provides a platform for researchers, universities, policymakers, national research and education networks, industry representatives and development partners to exchange ideas and strengthen collaboration.
