On Friday, February 16, 2024, Computer Clinic Ltd. conducted an ICT conference meant to highlight the impact the Digital Malawi project has had on the youth in the six districts where it has provided training.
The project, which is being implemented by the Public-Private Partnership Commission (PPPPC) with the support of the Malawi government, is being funded by the World Bank.
During the conference, five youth groups from Ntcheu, Ntchisi, Rumphi, Salima, Dowa, and Lilongwe districts won K2.5 million each after emerging as the top five winners in a competition where they had to pitch their viable business ideas to judges. In order to support them as they launch their small enterprises, the other 26 groups were each awarded K1 million.
Speaking during the function, the director of youth in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Judith Msusa commended all partners in the digital Malawi project for their work in training the youth in remote areas in digital and entrepreneurship skills. She also highlighted that many youths have skills but lack capital, but what the project has done by giving the groups the grants is a commendable initiative.
“To Computer Clinic and all partners of the Digital Malawi Project, your dedication to empowering the youth of Malawi with digital and entrepreneurship skills has been nothing short of inspirational. Your journey serves as a beacon of hope for the countless young individuals seeking to make a difference in the world of ICT. Your accomplishments underscore the transformative power of knowledge, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence,” she said.
The managing director of Computer Clinic, Sam Masikini, underlined in his remarks the need for young people to have a basic understanding of digital technology. Additionally, he explained that the project’s goal of teaching more women—at a ratio of 57% to 43% men—has been accomplished because it was found that a greater number of women avoid information technology because it is perceived as a field dominated by men.
Richard Ndalama, one of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to all of the partners of the Digital Malawi project for the subgrants’ support and the free skills they were able to acquire. He explained that these would help them improve their standard of living as they pursue entrepreneurship.
Among the other high-ranking delegates in attendance were PPPC Data Manager Paul Kanthambi, Deputy Mayor of Lilongwe Councillor Esther Sagawa, and ICTAM President Clarence Gama.