The Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), through its Centre for Continuing Education and Professional Development (CCEPD), with funding from Skills for A Vibrant Economy (SAVE), has rolled out a series of impactful short courses aimed at empowering Malawians with practical, income-generating skills.

The training programmes cover key areas including Agricultural Mechanization, Dairy Entrepreneurship, Landscape Design and Entrepreneurship, and Renewable Energy—sectors identified as critical to Malawi’s sustainable economic growth and job creation.

A total of 120 participants have been awarded full scholarships under the initiative. The scholarships cover tuition, accommodation, meals, and transportation where necessary, ensuring that financial barriers do not limit access to these transformative opportunities.

Designed to strengthen practical competencies and promote entrepreneurship, the one-month programmes combine both theoretical instruction and hands-on training. Participants are expected to gain relevant, market-driven skills that will enhance their employability and enable them to venture into self-sustaining businesses upon completion. Successful participants will be awarded certificates in their respective fields.

The initiative places particular emphasis on supporting vulnerable groups, especially women, equipping them with skills that can improve livelihoods and foster economic independence.

Speaking during the orientation, Moses Limuwa, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist in the Programmes Coordinating Office at LUANAR, commended SAVE for its commitment to uplifting vulnerable populations. “Women often face a higher risk of poverty and socio-economic challenges. Initiatives like this are crucial in bridging that gap and creating opportunities for meaningful participation in the economy,” he said. He further applauded SAVE for partnering with LUANAR to deliver high-impact programmes that directly contribute to improving lives.

The Director of CCEPD, Kakokota, echoed these sentiments and encouraged participants to fully commit to the training. “This is a life-changing opportunity. Take it seriously, engage actively, and make the most out of this programme,” She urged.

This initiative underscores LUANAR’s continued commitment, in partnership with SAVE, to fostering skill development, innovation, and inclusive economic growth in Malawi.