The visit was organised to provide students with firsthand exposure to innovative health systems strengthening initiatives, digital health solutions, and supply chain management practices implemented across Malawi. By engaging directly with professionals managing national-level programmes, students were able to connect theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom with real-world implementation.

VillageReach was selected for the study visit due to its significant contribution to Malawi’s health sector, particularly in telehealth services, epidemic preparedness, logistics optimisation, and technology-driven health delivery systems. The engagement aligns with Unicaf University’s  strategic focus on enhancing student employability through professional exposure, research-informed practice, and partnership development.

The session was structured into two main components: a presentation by the VillageReach team followed by an interactive Question and Answer session.

Mr Charles Matemba, Supply Chain Manager at VillageReach, opened the session with a presentation outlining the organisation’s mission to reduce health inequities and strengthen access to quality healthcare services. He presented a comprehensive overview of VillageReach’s work in Malawi from 2008 to 2025, demonstrating its evolution from community-based projects to nationally scaled health systems innovations. Key programme milestones included rural maternal and child health initiatives, the introduction of the national toll-free telehealth hotline Chipatala cha pa Foni (54747), pharmacy assistant training programmes, drone-supported medical deliveries, COVID-19 response interventions, and disease surveillance systems supporting epidemic preparedness.

Mr Steven Simkonda, VillageReach’s IT Specialist, delivered a presentation focusing on digital solutions integrated within VillageReach programmes, highlighting how technology improves data visibility, enhances efficiency, and strengthens last-mile service delivery. Systems presented included telehealth platforms, drone-enabled logistics networks, and digital communication systems deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Students actively participated in the interactive session, raising questions related to digital supply chain management, internship opportunities, and strategies for increasing public awareness of health programmes. The discussion fostered meaningful engagement and highlighted potential areas for future collaboration between the two institutions.

The field visit provided students with valuable insights into the complexity of managing health systems in resource-constrained environments and the importance of community engagement in overcoming behavioural and access barriers. Participants gained a deeper understanding of how health initiatives evolve from pilot projects to nationwide programmes, as well as the critical role of technology in addressing last-mile delivery challenges.

Overall, the engagement successfully bridged theory and practice, strengthened professional networks, and reinforced the relevance of academic programmes to Malawi’s national health priorities. The visit also laid the foundation for potential future partnerships and internship opportunities that will further enhance student development and sector collaboration.

Unicaf University remains committed to creating transformative learning experiences that prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully to healthcare systems and community development across the region.

We are looking forward to sharing this special moment with you!

Graduation Day:

• Date: Saturday, 31st January 2026

• Time: 9:30 – 11:30am*

  • All graduates must arrive at the venue no later than 8:45am.

  • *The time is tentative and will be confirmed closer to the graduation date.

• Venue: Oriental Hotel, 3 Lekki – Epe Expressway, Victoria Island, Lagos 106104, Nigeria.

Important: Please note that this graduation event is organised by Unicaf and does not replace any official invitation to attend campus-based graduation ceremonies.

Rehearsal Day:

• Date: Friday, 30th January 2026

• Time: 9:30am – 12:00am*

  • *The time is tentative and will be confirmed closer to the graduation date.

• Venue: Oriental Hotel, 3 Lekki – Epe Expressway, Victoria Island, Lagos 106104, Nigeria

*In order to participate in the Graduation Ceremony, all graduates must attend the dress rehearsal.

Registration and Payment:

To register and secure your place at the graduation ceremony, please proceed with the payment for your graduation attire by the 31st December 2025.

Graduation Attire:

Please note: A link to select your gown size will be sent to you via email after your purchase.

To proceed with the ordering of your graduation attire, you need to make sure that you have sufficient balance in your account.

To check your balance, go to the “Finance” section of your UniSIS account and click “Make Payment” to confirm it covers the required purchase amount. Upon confirming the availability of funds in your account, follow the steps below to complete your registration:

1. Access your UniSIS account and navigate to Product Selection.

   • (“Help” → “Product/̽»¨ÉçÇø” → “Product Selection”)

2. Choose “Graduation Gowns.” (Select appropriate gown and “ORDER NOW”.)

3. Ensure you receive a confirmation email verifying your registration. This email is required for entry to the rehearsal and ceremony. *

*If you do not receive it within 3-4 working days, contact graduation@uel.unicaf.org. Note that access to the ceremony requires this confirmation email.

Notes:

• We will not be accepting cash payments at our offices.

• The fee for graduation attire is non-refundable.

• Graduation attire will be distributed during the rehearsal.

• Guest Invitations: Each graduate can invite up to two (2) guests.

Travel and Accommodation:

• Graduates are responsible for their travel and accommodation arrangements.

Special Arrangements:

For mobility assistance or wheelchair access, email us at graduation@uel.unicaf.org.

Certificate Information:

The official certificate will not be given on the day. It will be provided to all Graduates at a later date*. If you need further information about this please contact: registrar@unicaf.org.

*Not applicable to Graduates who have already received their official certificate.

Contact Information:

For inquiries email us at graduation@uel.unicaf.org.

Consent:
Photography and Media: By attending this event, you consent to being photographed and filmed. These visuals may be used in Unicaf’s promotional and public relations materials including brochures, social media, and official websites. If you wish to withdraw your consent, please notify us in writing at least 7 days before the event at graduation@uel.unicaf.org.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. I have paid for my graduation attire, but I haven’t received a confirmation email from you.

If you have not received a confirmation email regarding your registration within 3-4 working days, please contact graduation@uel.unicaf.org

2. Will I be able to receive my gown if I do not attend the graduation ceremony?

Yes, you may order your gown even if you do not attend the graduation ceremony. Please complete the form via this link so that the gown can be shipped to your requested address. Once the form has been completed, our graduation team will send you an email advising you of the shipping cost and how to complete your order.

3. I have paid the amount to attend the graduation ceremony but unfortunately, I can’t attend. Can I have a refund?

The Graduation Fee is strictly non-refundable. However, there may be exceptions granted for extenuating circumstances, in which case please send an email with supporting documents to graduation@uel.unicaf.org.

4. What are the steps to register for the upcoming ceremony?

• Access your UniSIS account and navigate to Product Selection.

  1. (“Help” → “Product/̽»¨ÉçÇø” → “Product Selection”)
     

• Choose “Graduation Gowns.” (Select appropriate gown and “ORDER NOW”.)

• Ensure you receive a confirmation email verifying your registration. This email is required for entry to the rehearsal and ceremony. *

*If you do not receive it within 3-4 working days, contact graduation@uel.unicaf.org. Note that access to the ceremony requires this confirmation email.

5. When will I receive the original degree certificate?

Once the issuance process is completed by the University, the Certificate will be delivered to Unicaf Headquarters and it will be sent to you via a courier service. Once dispatched, you will receive a tracking number via email.

6. What are the sizes of the gowns?

Multiple sizes are available. A link to select your gown size will be sent to you via email after your purchase.

7. Why am I not eligible to attend the graduation?

Only students who have received invitations are eligible to attend the Graduation Ceremony. If you have not received an invitation, it means that you do not comply with all graduation requirements. For more information contact support@unicaf.org.

8. When will I receive the confirmation email?

Confirmation emails are usually sent within 3-4 days after the successful completion of the registration process. If you have not received your confirmation email, please send an email to: graduation@uel.unicaf.org.

9. Is it mandatory to attend the rehearsal?

Yes, attending the rehearsal is mandatory for all graduates. Graduates who do not attend the rehearsal will not be able to attend the Ceremony.

10. Will my name be announced if I do not attend?

No, the names of those who do not attend will not be announced. However, all the names will be included in the Graduation Booklet which will be shared via email after the graduation ceremony.

11. Is it possible to attend the Graduation Ceremony in the UK?

Yes, it is possible to attend the University of East London Graduation Ceremony. Please note that this graduation event is organised by Unicaf and does not replace any official invitation to attend campus-based graduation ceremonies.

We are looking forward to sharing this special moment with you!

Graduation Day:

• Date: Saturday, 31st January 2026

• Time: 16:00 – 18:00*

  • All graduates must arrive at the venue no later than 15:15.

  • *The time is tentative and will be confirmed closer to the graduation date.

• Venue: Oriental Hotel, 3 Lekki – Epe Expressway, Victoria Island, Lagos 106104, Nigeria.

Rehearsal Day:

• Date: Friday, 30th January 2026

• Time: 15:30 – 18:00*

  • *The time is tentative and will be confirmed closer to the graduation date.

• Venue: Oriental Hotel, 3 Lekki – Epe Expressway, Victoria Island, Lagos 106104, Nigeria

*In order to participate in the Graduation Ceremony, all graduates must attend the dress rehearsal.

Registration and Payment:

To register and secure your place at the graduation ceremony, please proceed with the payment for your graduation attire by the 31st December 2025.

Graduation Attire:

Please note: A link to select your gown size will be sent to you via email after your purchase.

To proceed with the ordering of your graduation attire, you need to make sure that you have sufficient balance in your account.

To check your balance, go to the “Finance” section of your UniSIS account and click “Make Payment” to confirm it covers the required purchase amount. Upon confirming the availability of funds in your account, follow the steps below to complete your registration:

1. Access your UniSIS account and navigate to Product Selection.

   • (“Help” → “Product/̽»¨ÉçÇø” → “Product Selection”)

2. Choose “Graduation Gowns.” (Select appropriate gown and “ORDER NOW”.)

3. Ensure you receive a confirmation email verifying your registration. This email is required for entry to the rehearsal and ceremony. *

*If you do not receive it within 3-4 working days, contact graduation@ljmu.unicaf.org. Note that access to the ceremony requires this confirmation email.

Notes:

• We will not be accepting cash payments at our offices.

• The fee for graduation attire is non-refundable.

• Graduation attire will be distributed during the rehearsal.

• Guest Invitations: Each graduate can invite up to two (2) guests.

Travel and Accommodation:

• Graduates are responsible for their travel and accommodation arrangements.

Special Arrangements:

For mobility assistance or wheelchair access, email us at graduation@ljmu.unicaf.org.

Certificate Information:

The official certificate will not be given on the day. It will be provided to all Graduates at a later date*. If you need further information about this please contact: registrar@unicaf.org.

*Not applicable to Graduates who have already received their official certificate.

Contact Information:

For inquiries email us at graduation@ljmu.unicaf.org.

Consent:
Photography and Media: By attending this event, you consent to being photographed and filmed. These visuals may be used in Unicaf’s promotional and public relations materials including brochures, social media, and official websites. If you wish to withdraw your consent, please notify us in writing at least 7 days before the event at graduation@ljmu.unicaf.org.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. I have paid for my graduation attire, but I haven’t received a confirmation email from you.

If you have not received a confirmation email regarding your registration within 3-4 working days, please contact graduation@ljmu.unicaf.org

2. Will I be able to receive my gown if I do not attend the graduation ceremony?

Yes, you may order your gown even if you do not attend the graduation ceremony. Please complete the form via this link so that the gown can be shipped to your requested address. Once the form has been completed, our graduation team will send you an email advising you of the shipping cost and how to complete your order.

3. I have paid the amount to attend the graduation ceremony but unfortunately, I can’t attend. Can I have a refund?

The Graduation Fee is strictly non-refundable. However, there may be exceptions granted for extenuating circumstances, in which case please send an email with supporting documents to graduation@ljmu.unicaf.org.

4. What are the steps to register for the upcoming ceremony?

• Access your UniSIS account and navigate to Product Selection.

  1. (“Help” → “Product/̽»¨ÉçÇø” → “Product Selection”)
     

• Choose “Graduation Gowns.” (Select appropriate gown and “ORDER NOW”.)

• Ensure you receive a confirmation email verifying your registration. This email is required for entry to the rehearsal and ceremony. *

*If you do not receive it within 3-4 working days, contact graduation@ljmu.unicaf.org. Note that access to the ceremony requires this confirmation email.

5. When will I receive the original degree certificate?

Once the issuance process is completed by the University, the Certificate will be delivered to Unicaf Headquarters and it will be sent to you via a courier service. Once dispatched, you will receive a tracking number via email.

6. What are the sizes of the gowns?

Multiple sizes are available. A link to select your gown size will be sent to you via email after your purchase.

7. Why am I not eligible to attend the graduation?

Only students who have received invitations are eligible to attend the Graduation Ceremony. If you have not received an invitation, it means that you do not comply with all graduation requirements. For more information contact support@unicaf.org.

8. When will I receive the confirmation email?

Confirmation emails are usually sent within 3-4 days after the successful completion of the registration process. If you have not received your confirmation email, please send an email to: graduation@ljmu.unicaf.org.

9. Is it mandatory to attend the rehearsal?

Yes, attending the rehearsal is mandatory for all graduates. Graduates who do not attend the rehearsal will not be able to attend the Ceremony.

10. Will my name be announced if I do not attend?

No, the names of those who do not attend will not be announced. However, all the names will be included in the Graduation Booklet which will be shared via email after the graduation ceremony.

11. Is it possible to attend the Graduation Ceremony in the UK?

No, currently it is not possible to attend the Liverpool John Moores University Graduation Ceremony in the UK.

Graduation Day:

• Date: Saturday, 31st January 2026

• Time: 13:00 – 14:30*

  • All graduates must arrive at the venue no later than 12:15pm

  • *The time is tentative and will be confirmed closer to the graduation date.

• Venue: Oriental Hotel, 3 Lekki – Epe Expressway, Victoria Island, Lagos 106104, Nigeria.

Important: Please note that this graduation event is organised by Unicaf and does not replace any official invitation to attend campus-based graduation ceremonies.

Rehearsal Day:

• Date: Friday, 30th January 2026

• Time: 12:30pm – 15:00*

  • *The time is tentative and will be confirmed closer to the graduation date.

• Venue: Oriental Hotel, 3 Lekki – Epe Expressway, Victoria Island, Lagos 106104, Nigeria

*In order to participate in the Graduation Ceremony, all graduates must attend the dress rehearsal.

Registration and Payment:

To register and secure your place at the graduation ceremony, please proceed with the payment for your graduation attire by the 31st December 2025.

Graduation Attire:

Please note: A link to select your gown size will be sent to you via email after your purchase.

To proceed with the ordering of your graduation attire, you need to make sure that you have sufficient balance in your account.

To check your balance, go to the “Finance” section of your UniSIS account and click “Make Payment” to confirm it covers the required purchase amount. Upon confirming the availability of funds in your account, follow the steps below to complete your registration:

1. Access your UniSIS account and navigate to Product Selection.

   • (“Help” → “Product/̽»¨ÉçÇø” → “Product Selection”)

2. Choose “Graduation Gowns.” (Select appropriate gown and “ORDER NOW”.

3. Ensure you receive a confirmation email verifying your registration. This email is required for entry to the rehearsal and ceremony. *

*If you do not receive it within 3-4 working days, contact graduation@uos.unicaf.org. Note that access to the ceremony requires this confirmation email.*

Notes:

• We will not be accepting cash payments at our offices.

• The fee for graduation attire is non-refundable.

• Graduation attire will be distributed during the rehearsal.

• Guest Invitations: Each graduate can invite up to two (2) guests.

Travel and Accommodation:

• Graduates are responsible for their travel and accommodation arrangements.

Special Arrangements:

For mobility assistance or wheelchair access, email us at graduation@uos.unicaf.org.

Certificate Information:

The official certificate will not be given on the day. It will be provided to all Graduates at a later date*. If you need further information about this please contact: registrar@unicaf.org.

*Not applicable to Graduates who have already received their official certificate.

Contact Information:

For inquiries email us at graduation@uos.unicaf.org.

Consent:
Photography and Media: By attending this event, you consent to being photographed and filmed. These visuals may be used in Unicaf’s promotional and public relations materials including brochures, social media, and official websites. If you wish to withdraw your consent, please notify us in writing at least 7 days before the event at graduation@uos.unicaf.org.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. I have paid for my graduation attire, but I haven’t received a confirmation email from you.

If you have not received a confirmation email regarding your registration within 3-4 working days, please contact graduation@uos.unicaf.org

2. Will I be able to receive my gown if I do not attend the graduation ceremony?

Yes, you may order your gown even if you do not attend the graduation ceremony. Please complete the form via this link so that the gown can be shipped to your requested address. Once the form has been completed, our graduation team will send you an email advising you of the shipping cost and how to complete your order.

3. I have paid the amount to attend the graduation ceremony but unfortunately, I can’t attend. Can I have a refund?

The Graduation Fee is strictly non-refundable. However, there may be exceptions granted for extenuating circumstances, in which case please send an email with supporting documents to graduation@uos.unicaf.org.

4. What are the steps to register for the upcoming ceremony?

• Access your UniSIS account and navigate to Product Selection.

  1. (“Help” → “Product/̽»¨ÉçÇø” → “Product Selection”)
     

• Choose “Graduation Gowns.” (Select appropriate gown and “ORDER NOW”.

• Ensure you receive a confirmation email verifying your registration. This email is required for entry to the rehearsal and ceremony. *

*If you do not receive it within 3-4 working days, contact graduation@uos.unicaf.org. Note that access to the ceremony requires this confirmation email.*

5. When will I receive the original degree certificate?

Once the issuance process is completed by the University, the Certificate will be delivered to Unicaf Headquarters and it will be sent to you via a courier service. Once dispatched, you will receive a tracking number via email.

6. What are the sizes of the gowns?

Multiple sizes are available. A link to select your gown size will be sent to you via email after your purchase.

7. Why am I not eligible to attend the graduation?

Only students who have received invitations are eligible to attend the Graduation Ceremony. If you have not received an invitation, it means that you do not comply with all graduation requirements. For more information contact support@unicaf.org.

8. When will I receive the confirmation email?

Confirmation emails are usually sent within 3-4 days after the successful completion of the registration process. If you have not received your confirmation email, please send an email to: graduation@uos.unicaf.org.

9. Is it mandatory to attend the rehearsal?

Yes, attending the rehearsal is mandatory for all graduates. Graduates who do not attend the rehearsal will not be able to attend the Ceremony.

10. Will my name be announced if I do not attend?

No, the names of those who do not attend will not be announced. However, all the names will be included in the Graduation Booklet which will be shared via email after the graduation ceremony.

11. Is it possible to attend the Graduation Ceremony in the UK?

Yes, it is possible to attend the University of Suffolk Graduation Ceremony. Please note that this graduation event is organised by Unicaf and does not replace any official invitation to attend campus-based graduation ceremonies.

The aim of these team events is to bring people together to share experiences, and interact while challenging themselves. And that’s exactly what happened! Students, as well as potential students, bonded throughout the fun day out, and during lunch they were given the opportunity to socialise and develop friendships.

For many of those in attendance this was a first time experience. The fact that there were prizes on offer for the winner’s of each challenge, made the activities even more thrilling. By the day’s end the students shared their appreciation towards Unicaf for organising the event. They also stressed their admiration to Unicaf for helping them get closer to achieving their academic goals.

Unicaf University Kampala Campus

Unicaf University’s new Kampala campus has recently organised its first Open Day for the 19th February from 9.00am – 2.00pm. It’ll be a great opportunity to find out what’s available in terms of scholarships as well as flexible degree programmes. Why not pop along? You’ll find the campus at Plot 53B, Ntinda II Road, Naguru-Kampala.

Unicaf University students and staff regularly engage in ‘green’ activities that support, protect and enhance the natural environment. This month, Unicaf University students, academics and staff joined forces with staff members of the to plant one thousand five hundred trees in Katete farm. The goal of the initiative was to help preserve the ecosystem in the area served by the Water Board, which supplies water to households in and around Lilongwe.

Present at the event were the Chancellor and the Vice-Chancellor of Unicaf University in Malawi, Professor Joseph Kuthemba Mwale and Dr Robert Ridley, the Director of Production and Distribution of the Lilongwe Water Board, Engineer Gustaff Chikasema, and media representatives. 

Vice-Chancellor Ridley commended the start of the partnership between Unicaf University and the Lilongwe Water Board and thanked the University’s students for their zeal and dedication to the ‘Go Green’ initiative, launched by the Malawi government. In addition he underlined the University’s vision to support economic development through environmentally sustainable practices, such as this one, which responds to the country’s high rate of deforestation, leading to soil erosion and contributing to global warming. 

Engineer Gustaff Chikasema thanked Unicaf University for collaborating in this tree-planting initiative, which will help reduce the environmental degradation at the Water Board’s area. He expressed the hope that the partnership will continue, helping to take care of the new trees planted. 

In 2021, Unicaf University at the Federal Level, and through its individual in-country Vice-Chancellors, signed the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Accord. Unicaf University is committed to responsible consumption and production and to working in partnership with national and international organisations to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The University’s efforts have already been recognised by being shortlisted as a finalist in the UN-sponsored Green Gown International Awards as ‘Sustainability Institution of the Year 2021’. 

Written by Eva Koursoumba