Mzuni, MBS MoU set to boost capacity

Mzuzu University (Mzuni) and the Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enable the two institutions to work together to build capacity on neglected and underutilised biodiversity.

MBS director general Bernard Thole said through the MoU, officers from MBS will be interacting with students at the university’s Africa Centre for Excellence in Neglected and Underutilised Biodiversity to strengthen their capacity in that field.

He said: “Our role is to bring in the components of standards, development, quality assurance and metrology.

“When Mzuni is developing products and processes or conducting science research, they are aware of the standards that are required and where standards are not available in that particular area, we identify the gaps and develop the standards.”

Mzuni vice-chancellor Wales Singini commended the partnership, saying the university has weak linkages with the industry, as such, the MoU will provide an opportunity for students to do practical work on what they learn in class.

“The MoU is giving us a platform and room to expand and strengthen our linkages to support better our students in terms of practice,” he said.

More than 200 students are expected to benefit from the five-year MoU.

Neglected and underutilised crops are domesticated plant species used for food, medicine, trading and cultural practices.