Strengthening Bonds: UNIMA Geo-Society hosts MUBAS SAERE

In an effort to enhance connections between UNIMA and MUBAS students pursuing comparable careers, the UNIMA Geo-Society, which is a body of students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Geography and Bachelor of Science in Geology programme, recently hosted the Students Association of Earth Resources Engineering (SAERE) which includes students enrolled in the Bachelor of Mining Engineering, Bachelor of Geological Engineering, and Bachelor of Metallurgy and Mineral Processing Engineering programmes at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS).

The two societies came together with the aim of fostering unity, sharing ideas, and providing the students with networking opportunities to pave the way for future collaborations, research endeavours, and career advancement as emerging geo-scientists and engineers. 

During the visit, there was a stimulating debate between the two societies on the role of the Government in addressing health and safety concerns within the mining sector. After that, the guests, who included approximately 80 students from SAERE, were taken on a campus tour by the Geo-Society members, exploring some facilities like the Geography Laboratory and The Great Hall, among others. 

Mr. Lemekezani Mtachi, one of the students from UNIMA who attended the debate, appreciated the idea of bringing together students from diverse backgrounds as it provided a rich pool of knowledge and perspectives. He also noted that the debate served as a dynamic platform for intellectual engagement and honing critical thinking.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Mphatso Ben, the president of the Geo-Society, stated, “We thought it wise to invite SAERE from MUBAS because firstly we share a focus on understanding earth resources and environmental dynamics. This facilitated a platform for reciprocal exchange of insights between engineering students and Geo-science students. We also recognize that the collective responsibility for the future of Malawi’s mining and related industries transcends university institutional boundaries.”

Besides facilitating knowledge exchange, the event also prioritized students’ mental well-being, offering various games and activities to alleviate academic pressure.