Unilia pleads with govt to release funds

University of Livingstonia (Unilia) owned by the Livingstonia Synod of the Church of Central Africa Presbeytarian (CCAP) has requested government to authorise the institution to use the K75 million ($125,695) gift provided several years ago to construct a hostel.

The money was pledged to the university by former President Bingu wa Mutharika in 2007.

Mutharika, after visiting the university, said government would fund the construction of a 100-room hostel to accommodate more female students at the institution.

Funds to begin the project were released in 2011, but government noted that it was not enough. Since then the money has been in the bank and no further allocations or directions have been made.

Speaking in an interview, Unilia registrar Peter Kayira said construction of the hostel would have helped the university increase enrolment of female students.

Ministry of Education, Science and Technology spokesperson Rebecca Phwitiko said the money was channelled direct from Treasury. She said Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning and Development was better placed to comment on the matter.

Treasury spokesperson Nations Msowoya did not answer his phone when called for comment.