Unisa's Malawi open day sparks excitement and inspiration

Unisa hosted an engaging and vibrant open day in Lilongwe, Malawi, on 16 and 17 August 2024, marking a significant milestone in the university's ongoing efforts to connect with students across the African continent. Held in the heart of Lilongwe, the event wasn't just a showcase of academic excellence but a testament to Unisa's commitment to making quality education accessible to all.

Unisa staff assisting a family with information on undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications at the College of Economic and Management Sciences

The open day buzzed with excitement, drawing in a diverse crowd of prospective students, eager parents, and current students seeking clarity on academic and administrative matters. The atmosphere was electric, with curiosity and enthusiasm filling the air as visitors explored the vibrant stalls set up by Unisa's various colleges.

A hotel staff member was eager to learn more about offerings from the College of Human Sciences

The event's objectives were twofold: to strengthen relationships with current students and to provide an engaging platform for potential students to explore their future with Unisa. Representatives from the College of Human Sciences, College of Law, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, and College of Science, Engineering, and Technology were on hand to provide in-depth information about the programmes on offer. From admissions processes to discussions about the university's world-class facilities, the Unisa team ensured that every visitor left with a clearer understanding of what the university has to offer.

However, this open day was more than just an information session; it was a celebration of Unisa’s mission to expand educational opportunities across borders. The vibrant displays, interactive sessions, and personal touch provided by Unisa staff made the event not just informative but truly inspiring. Many prospective students walked away with a newfound sense of direction and excitement about their educational futures.

In preparation for the open day, Unisa representatives visited both the Malawi Embassy and the South African Embassy. These visits were crucial to the event's success, as the embassies helped increase visibility by displaying the open day invitation, ensuring a strong turnout.

One of the event's exhibitors secured an interview with MBC, the Malawian national broadcaster, which aired multiple times on their youth programme and news bulletins. This publicity was instrumental in attracting a larger crowd, with many attendees citing the broadcasts as their first point of contact with the open day.

The success of the event was evident in the number of inquiries and interactions that took place over the two days. Prospective students engaged in meaningful conversations with Unisa representatives, expressing their aspirations and seeking guidance on how to achieve them through the university's programmes. Current students also found the event valuable, as they had the opportunity to address various administrative concerns directly with Unisa staff.

As the event concluded, it was clear that Unisa had left a lasting impression on the Lilongwe community. The open day not only showcased the university's offerings but also reinforced its reputation as a beacon of educational excellence in Africa. With the success of this event, Unisa continues to pave the way for future scholars and leaders, proving once again that the pursuit of knowledge knows no borders.

* By Tebogo Mahlaela, College of Economic and Management Sciences, and Lesego Maloka, College of Science, Engineering, and Technology