On Saturday, March 2nd, 2023, we hosted an incredible inaugural University Application Sensitization Session at the Msalura CDSS Hall in Salima. Prospective college students gathered to gain insights into the diverse programs offered in public universities and to learn how to make informed choices that enhance their chances of being selected for programs aligned with their MSCE grades.

Graduates and current students from various prestigious public universities across Malawi, such as the University of Malawi (UNIMA), Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHES), Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), and the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), took turns facilitating the sessions. They shared valuable information about the programs offered by their respective institutions and the career opportunities associated with these programs.

Mentors from the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources making their presentation.

During the question-and-answer session, Samuel Malasa Banda, the YESI Team Leader, shared valuable advice with the students. He emphasized the importance of strategic decision-making when choosing their programs.

“It’s crucial to be ambitious yet prudent in selecting programs that harmonize with both your academic performance and career aspirations,” said Banda. “While passion is important, it’s equally vital to ensure that your MSCE grades align with your desired university program. Ultimately, it’s your grades, not just your passion, that the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) will consider when directing you to a program” he added.

Abagail Fosko, one of the student attendees, expressed her appreciation for the informative session. She highlighted how overwhelming it would have been to navigate through the multitude of university programs without the guidance provided by the YES Initiative.

Participants at the session listening attentively

In addition to the physical session held on Saturday, the YES Initiative is also conducting a College Link initiative. For prospective college students who scored below 21 points, the Initiative is offering assistance by recommending programs that align with their grades. This support is provided when individuals send an email to mentorship@yesinitiativemw.org or WhatsApp message to +265 888 215 826.