The newly elected Student Representative Council (SRC) president at the University of Malawi (UNIMA), Yatuta Mulungu, has pledged to prioritize student welfare and ensure that every student receives the necessary support to excel in their studies at “the University God loved the most.”
In an interview with Malawi24, the 21-year-old third-year Bachelor of Science in Statistics student expressed gratitude for the overwhelming trust and support shown by his fellow students, saying it reflects their confidence in his ability to bring meaningful change.
“It feels amazing and wonderful because it shows the love and support they have in me and the trust that I can serve them well,” Mulungu said.
Mulungu explained that his decision to contest the presidency was motivated by the challenges students continue to face on campus.
“Like any other leader who ever emerged, my desire to contest was inspired by some of the struggles that students are experiencing such as lack of accomodation and basic neccesities.I convinced myself that possibly, I can make a difference,” he added.
His passion for leadership dates back to his early school days. From serving as head boy in both primary and secondary school to holding several positions in student societies, Mulungu’s leadership journey has been defined by a consistent commitment to service.
He has also participated in various leadership development platforms, including international youth summits and organizations such as the International African Youth on African Development (FIJADA) — where he serves as treasurer — and QS Impact, where he is an ambassador. These experiences, he said, have shaped his leadership philosophy.
With a vision anchored on empowerment and sustainability, Mulungu said his administration will focus on initiating programs that ease student challenges while fostering self-reliance.
“My biggest desire is to see a student body that can sustain itself when the need arises—to be self-dependent rather than relying too much on outside help,” he said.
On relations with the University Management, Mulungu emphasized the importance of dialogue and mutual respect.
“When we talk about management, we are also talking about adults and fathers.Their decisions are meant to help us, but when certain policies affect student welfare, we must engage them and find solutions that benefit everyone,” he noted.
Mulungu secured a decisive victory in the November 7, 2025 elections, garnering 4,860 votes against his challenger Joel Villux Chigalu, who managed to secure 1,585 votes.
He succeeds Innocent Mwendenge Chisi as SRC president.
