The National Oil Company of Malawi Limited (NOCMA) emerged as the biggest sponsor of the inaugural Petroleum Symposium hosted by the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), reaffirming its commitment to youth empowerment and the growth of Malawi’s petroleum and energy sector.
Held on May 15, 2026 at the MUST City Campus in Blantyre, the symposium brought together academia, students, policymakers, and major industry players in what stakeholders described as a significant milestone in advancing dialogue and collaboration within Malawi’s energy industry.
The event created a rare platform for interaction between students and leading institutions operating within the country’s petroleum sector. Discussions focused on innovation, energy security, petroleum engineering, skills development, and the importance of strengthening collaboration between academia and industry.
The symposium attracted participation from major players in the energy sector, including the National Oil Company of Malawi NOCMA, Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA), TotalEnergies, Puma Energy, and Mining Solutions.
Speaking during the opening session, MUST leadership described the symposium as a strategic initiative aimed at preparing future professionals for the demands of Malawi’s evolving energy landscape.
Dean of Academics at MUST, Associate Professor Chikondi Chisenga, said the symposium represented more than just an academic gathering, but an important bridge between classroom learning and industry experience.
“Every litre of fuel we manage ultimately serves the lives and livelihoods of Malawians.When communities are affected, “We want our students to interact directly with the institutions shaping Malawi’s energy future. This symposium is about exposing students to industry realities, opportunities, and expectations while encouraging innovation and professional excellence,” said Chisenga
He further emphasized the need for stronger partnerships between academia and industry, noting that support from institutions such as NOCMA plays a vital role in motivating students and developing local expertise for Malawi’s energy future.
Chisenga disclosed that MUST’s Petroleum Engineering Programme is expected to graduate thirteen students this year, a development he described as important for building national capacity in the petroleum and energy sectors.
Representing NOCMA as Guest of Honour, the company’s Human Resources and Administration Manager, Mr. Prescott Nkhata, challenged students to move beyond theoretical learning and embrace innovation, adaptability, and practical problem-solving.
“The future of Malawi’s petroleum industry depends on the quality, discipline, and preparedness of young professionals coming out of institutions such as MUST,” said Nkhata. “As NOCMA, we believe that investing in students and academic platforms is an investment in the country’s future energy security.”
He added that the petroleum industry requires highly skilled and ethical professionals capable of responding to the rapidly changing demands of the global energy sector.
Nkhata also reaffirmed NOCMA’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote knowledge-sharing, research, and professional development among young people pursuing careers in energy-related fields.
One of the highlights of the symposium was a corporate presentation by NOCMA Public Relations Officer, Mr. Raymond Likambale, who outlined the company’s mandate, operations, and strategic role in ensuring fuel security and stability in Malawi.
The presentation generated significant interest among students and delegates, many of whom engaged the NOCMA team on issues relating to fuel supply systems, petroleum management, and opportunities within the sector.
The event was also streamed live on NOCMA’s Facebook platform and attracted wide coverage from mainstream media outlets.
Following the successful hosting of the symposium, MUST appealed for continued partnerships with industry stakeholders, particularly NOCMA, to help sustain and expand the initiative in future years.
