His Excellency, Ambassador Kwacha Chisiza and Prof. Frances Chikanda Dinala, Assistant Professor of Environmental Geology, met with Prof. Hiroki Habazaki, Dean of Engineering, who was with three other professors from Hokkaido University. The meeting aimed to strengthen educational and collaborative ties between Malawi and Japan by focusing on engineering, veterinary sciences, and other faculties. The discussions also encompassed the potential for increasing scholarship opportunities for Malawian students at Hokkaido University.

The meeting discussed strengthening educational ties between Malawi and Hokkaido University, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish formal cooperation. The increase in Malawian students to six could inspire more students to pursue studies at Hokkaido University in Japan. The potential for increased scholarships could provide more opportunities for Malawian students to study at Hokkaido University, leading to a skilled workforce. Interdisciplinary collaboration could enhance innovation and research capabilities. Such collaboration could lead to sustainable development and improved economic prospects for Malawi.

The meeting was productive, with both parties expressing enthusiasm for establishing a collaborative relationship between Hokkaido University and Malawi universities. The potential for joint initiatives in engineering and technology and other faculties was recognised as a pathway to support Malawi’s development goals.