The School of Engineering at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) successfully hosted an Engineering Conference on May 22, 2026, at its Blantyre campus. The event attracted academics, students, industry leaders and policymakers with the Minister of Energy and Mining, Dr. Jean Mathanga, MP as guest of honour, all eager to explore contemporary engineering challenges and innovations.
The symposium provided a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange, discussions, and networking among participants from diverse engineering disciplines. It also highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering innovation and practical solutions to real-world problems.
The highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by Professor Innocent Msonda from the University of Johannesburg. In his remarks, Professor Msonda urged engineers to embrace a systems approach in their work, emphasizing the need to view challenges holistically rather than in isolation.
He explained that modern engineering problems are increasingly complex and interconnected, requiring solutions that consider multiple dimensions, including technology, society, and the environment. According to Professor Msonda, adopting a systems mindset allows engineers to develop sustainable and effective solutions that can better respond to global and local challenges.
“Engineers must move beyond fragmented thinking and adopt a systems approach that integrates different perspectives for lasting impact,” he emphasized.
The symposium featured presentations, discussions, and interactive sessions that allowed participants to engage with emerging trends in engineering. Topics ranged from technological advancements to sustainable development and the role of engineering in national progress.
Students were given a valuable opportunity to interact with experienced professionals, gaining insights into the evolving demands of the engineering field. Industry participants also shared practical experiences, bridging the gap between theory and application.
The event, the third of its kind, underscored MUBAS’s role in advancing engineering education and promoting research that addresses national development priorities. By hosting such symposiums, the university continues to equip future engineers with the skills and perspectives needed to tackle complex challenges.
