University Of Malawi Launches Student Laptop Empowerment Programme In Partnership With Astria Learning

ZOMBA, MALAWI, September 2, 2025 /EINPresswire / -- The University of Malawi (UNIMA), in collaboration with Astria Learning , has officially launched the Student Laptop Empowerment Programme, a groundbreaking initiative designed to make laptops affordable and accessible on August 29, 2025. The programme aims to bridge the digital divide and equip students with the tools they need to learn, innovate, and lead in the digital era.

A Shared Vision for Digital Transformation
In his address, Prof. Samson Sajidu Vice Chancellor of the University of Malawi , underscored the historic significance of the initiative:

“The laptops we launch today are more than machines. They are tools of empowerment, enablers of knowledge, and catalysts for transformation. With them, we are opening doors for our students to excel, to innovate, and to lead.”
He further highlighted how the programme aligns with MW2063 and UNIMA's Strategic Plan, ensuring students gain the skills and tools needed to thrive in a global knowledge-driven economy.

Government's Commitment to Equity
Honourable Dr. Jessie Kabwila, Minister of Higher Education, emphasized that this programme is a milestone in the government's mission to build an inclusive and technology-enabled education system:

“A laptop today is a student's digital backpack- the gateway to lecture notes, research databases, simulations, e-assessment, and collaborative learning. With these devices, students can participate fully in blended learning, access the eCampus , and build the digital fluency employers expect.”
She underscored the government's commitment to ensuring that every eligible student, regardless of income, location, or background, has a fair pathway to access a learning device.

Partnership for Progress
On behalf of Astria Learning, Dr. Jeff Bordes, CEO, described the initiative as a catalyst for long-term change and an investment in Malawi's digital future:

“Every device we place in the hands of a student is a seed for Malawi's digital future. If we nurture it with learning, innovation, and resilience, it will grow into skills, jobs, and solutions that will transform Malawi into a thriving nation.”

Dr. Bordes reaffirmed Astria Learning's long-term commitment to supporting inclusive education and advancing the country's digitalisation agenda.

Phase One and Beyond
The first phase of the programme delivers 1,000 laptops for UNIMA students, supported by affordable financing from the National Bank of Malawi and facilitated through Astria Learning's digital expertise. This structured empowerment model will scale across other universities in the coming phases, making devices accessible to more students nationwide.

The initiative is anchored in three guiding principles:
- Access for All – Equal opportunity for every student, with targeted support for vulnerable groups.
- Affordability – Flexible repayment options with no hidden charges.
- Usability & Support – Warranties, after-sales care, and ICT training to ensure effective use.

Building a Smarter Malawi
This launch builds on UNIMA's broader eCampus initiative and reflects a joint commitment by academia, government, and the private sector to equip students for success in the digital economy.

As Dr. Bordes concluded:
“Together, we are launching devices for students today, and building a smarter Malawi for tomorrow.”

About the Partners
- University of Malawi (UNIMA): Malawi's premier higher learning institution, committed to academic excellence and innovation.
- Astria Learning: A global education technology company specializing in eCampus solutions and digital transformation across Africa.
- National Bank of Malawi (NBM): A leading financial institution committed to sustainable development and education empowerment.

Communications Office
University of Malawi | Astria Learning

Priti Roychoudhury
Astria Learning
+91 816-946-5561
email us here
Visit us on social media:
LinkedIn
Facebook
YouTube
TikTok

Legal Disclaimer:

EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.

MENAFN02092025003118003196ID1110006432