Update: Public University Staff Demand 50 to 60 Percent Salary Hike
Public university staff unions have escalated their demands for increased compensation, according to the Nyasa Times. The Public Universities Staff Union has issued a directive seeking a 50 to 60 percent salary increment effective April 2026. Union President Jimmy Gondwe instructed leadership at several institutions, including the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), Mzuzu University, and the University of Malawi (UNIMA), to commence negotiations. The union cited 27 percent inflation and recent fuel price hikes as primary reasons for the demand, warning of potential industrial action and a declining workforce if an agreement is not reached.
Update: Survey Reveals 85 Percent of Schools Lack Internet Access
A joint report by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the International Telecommunication Union highlights a persistent digital divide in the education sector. According to Xinhua News Agency, the survey revealed that 85.8 percent of primary and secondary schools in Malawi are completely without internet access, and 46.9 percent operate without electricity. In schools that do have access, the ratio stands at just one computer for every 356 students. Government officials have pledged to prioritise school electrification and connectivity investments over the next five years to improve the learning environment.
Mzuzu University Concludes AI and GIS Training
In higher education developments, Mzuzu University hosted an AI-Powered Geographic Information Systems training course through its Centre for Continuing Professional Development. The programme, which concluded on April 16, trained researchers, data scientists, and students on integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning into spatial data analysis, according to the university's official announcements.
MANEB Recruits Assistants for 2026 Examinations
Preparations for the upcoming national examinations are advancing. The Malawi National Examinations Board (MANEB) announced on April 16 that it is actively recruiting Temporary Examinations Assistants, according to local job listings. The successful applicants will be stationed in Zomba to assist with the sorting and marking of the 2026 national examinations. The application period for the temporary roles will close on April 24.