MUBAS conference to spotlight research, innovation as industry partnerships grow
Research and innovation are taking centre stage at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) as the institution prepares to host its annual Innovation Conference in September, bringing together academics, innovators and industry leaders to explore solutions to national challenges.
Held under the theme “Research and Innovation”, the conference is expected to provide a platform for showcasing ideas that can drive business growth, technological advancement and economic development.
MUBAS representative Professor Bernad Thole said the university has expanded its focus beyond research to embrace innovation and resource utilisation, ensuring that knowledge generated in academia translates into practical solutions for the private sector.
He said stronger collaboration between universities and businesses creates mutual benefits through knowledge sharing, innovation and enterprise development.
“MUBAS has expanded its focus beyond research to include innovation and resource utilisation in order to provide practical solutions to the private sector. While the private sector can benefit from innovations developed by the university, we also learn valuable lessons from industry on how to manage and grow enterprises,” said Thole.
Thole added that MUBAS will also host another conference in August under the theme “Developments in Infrastructure and Investments (DII)”, further strengthening discussions on innovation, infrastructure and investment opportunities.
Meanwhile, United General Insurance Company Limited (UGI) has injected K15 million into the September Innovation Conference, reaffirming its commitment to advancing research and knowledge-driven solutions.
UGI Chief Operations Officer McDonald Chibwe said research and innovation remain critical to improving products, services and the adoption of technologies that enhance customer experience.
He said the company is already embracing innovations such as an AI Agent for processing customer claims and Matrix technology in its motor insurance operations.
“We are in a service industry where success is measured by the value that we give to our customers. Technology is advancing in real time, and with developments in artificial intelligence, we can further improve how we assess and manage risk while enhancing customer experience,” said Chibwe.
Thole commended UGI for its continued support, describing the insurer as a long-standing partner in the university’s research activities and seminars.
