MUST students gain new opportunity to turn innovative ideas into businesses

Graduates from Malawi University of Science and Technology now have a new opportunity to transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses through a newly launched graduate start-up programme aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs and reducing unemployment among university graduates.

The programme, launched by FDH Bank Plc⁠ in partnership with MUST at the TFM Centre of Excellence in Blantyre, is expected to help final-year students and recent graduates move beyond academic theories and establish viable enterprises capable of creating jobs and solving community challenges.

The initiative comes at a time when many university graduates struggle to secure formal employment despite possessing innovative and marketable ideas.

Through the programme, selected participants will receive mentorship, financing, and business development support to help convert their concepts into operational ventures.

As part of the launch, 10 teams made up of final-year students and recent graduates pitched their business ideas before a panel of six executives from FDH Financial Holdings Limited, in what many described as a rare opportunity for young innovators to directly access potential investors and industry experts.

Speaking during the launch, George Chitera said the programme reflects the Bank’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting scalable business ideas among young people.

“Innovation is a fundamental component of national development. We encourage students to remain disciplined and believe in the viability of their ideas, while focusing on solutions that can contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic growth,” said Chitera.

He added that selected participants will receive structured support, including financing, mentorship, and capacity building to help turn their ideas into operational businesses.

MUST Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Wilson Mandala, said the partnership highlights the importance of private-sector involvement in developing entrepreneurial skills among graduates.

“This collaboration aligns with our commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. It encourages our students to move beyond traditional career paths and become solution-driven individuals capable of addressing real-world challenges,” said Mandala.

The programme is being implemented under the FDH Cares portfolio and aligns with Malawi 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, with stakeholders optimistic that it will help unlock the potential of young graduates and contribute to long-term economic growth.