Two weeks ago, Bunda College had been indefinitely closed due to misunderstandings between students and management. Students had accused the principal of mismanagement and demanded his resignation. The College had used police and finally the Courts to enforce its indefinite closure of the College.
At Mzuzu University, it has also been two weeks since staff went on strike demanding better pay and working conditions. The dons have resolved to stay away from any academic business including teaching pending a favourable outcome for their demands. This situation is against the interests of students who want to learn.
As youth rights activists, we condemn the status-quo at both Bunda and Mzuzu University, and we hereby call for an immediate resolution to the problems that exist at the two institutions. Where is our government? There has been no official statement from on the shutting down of Bunda. The government seems aloof when it comes to dealing with numerous issues affecting Mzuzu University despite numerous calls from action from students, management, members of staff and the general public.
Kajoloweka: Chairperson
We appeal to President Joyce Banda’s government to consider resolving the two cases as a matter of urgency. The indefinite closure of Bunda College and the on-going strike at Mzuzu University can’t be wished away. During the previous administration, there was a lack of political will to address problems at our institutions of higher learning. President Banda promised a fresh start and we are yet to see anything different on that front.
If we are serious about development in our country, we shouldn’t be neglecting education which is doing at the moment by choosing not to do anything about the problems that exist at our two colleges. We know that idle minds can be dangerous. We need to keep our young minds busy. A mind, as they say, is a terrible thing to waste. Do something!
‘Network for youth Activists’ is a group of youth activists that exists to advocate for socio-economic and political rights of the youth in Malawi.
Charles Kajoloweka (Chairperson) Andrew Focus Muyanga Longwe (Secretary General )
