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Veep wants more independent institutions

Vice-President Saulos Chilima says he supports the idea that more government institutions should be independent and self-sustaining for the country to develop.

Chilima said this on Thursday in reaction to developments at Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (Luanar) Bunda Campus where the school is constructing a business centre comprising a filling station, shopping complex and office space for rent to generate income for the university.

Chilima switches on the water pump at the campus
Chilima switches on the water pump at the campus

He said Malawi can do better if institutions reduce their dependency on government and develop means for generating resources.

Said Chilima: “This is commendable. If we are to move forward, then we must start having a lot of stand-alone institutions. We are not a hopeless people.

“The construction of the business centre will help the university become financially independent of the Treasury. It may not be total independence but if they cover some of their financial needs, then that should still be a positive development towards independence. “

The Veep was on a tour of the university’s campus where he appreciated what Luanar is doing in line with public service reforms.

Among others he toured students’ hostels, Bunda Campus main farm where the university is producing eggs, broiler chickens, cattle for beef and different types of vegetables which it sells to raise funds for the university.

He also visited other facilities such as the new water tank which the university is constructing to cater for the growing demand for space as the student population grows.

The university’s vice-chancellor, Professor George Kanyama-Phiri, said the university is doing all it can to improve the learning and teaching environment.

Chilima is in charge of public service reforms which government is undertaking to improve service delivery in the public sector. n

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