07/08/2026
Mzuzu University Urges Information Professionals to Turn Training into Workplace Impact
MZUZU, Malawi— Mzuzu University Library has concluded a four-day professional development workshop by challenging participants to transform newly acquired knowledge into measurable improvements in their workplaces while strengthening professional networks that extend beyond the classroom.
Held from August 3 to August 6, 2026, the workshop brought together working professionals from across Malawi for intensive training in digital marketing and artificial intelligence, equipping participants with practical skills to improve organizational performance in an increasingly digital world.
The training was led by Mr. Chris Ngalu, who facilitated sessions on AI-Powered Sales and Marketing Automation and Understanding Digital Marketing and the Modern Customer Journey. He was supported by Mr. Donald Phiri, who co-facilitated sessions on Digital Marketing Strategy and Analytics, Optimization and Growth Strategies. Throughout the four days, participants explored emerging digital tools, modern marketing approaches, and data-driven strategies designed to strengthen customer engagement, improve decision-making, and drive organizational growth.
Speaking during the closing session, Mr. Allan Kanyundo, the workshop coordinator, encouraged participants to view the training as the beginning of a lifelong learning journey rather than its conclusion.
He urged attendees to sustain the professional relationships established during the workshop, noting that peer networks provide valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, solve workplace challenges, and share best practices long after formal training has ended.
Kanyundo also encouraged participants to remain connected through professional platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook, using social media to exchange knowledge that promotes career growth and professional development.
As participants prepared to return to their respective institutions, he thanked them for their commitment throughout the four-day training and expressed appreciation to the organizations that sponsored their attendance. He also wished everyone safe travels.
Delivering the official closing remarks, Associate Professor Dr. Aubrey Chaputula, University Librarian, described the workshop as a reflection of Mzuzu University's commitment to building human capital through strategic partnerships and professional development.
He commended the lead facilitator, co-facilitator, senior library staff, organizing team, and participants for making the workshop a success, saying the four days had provided a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and capacity building.
Dr. Chaputula emphasized that the true value of training lies in its practical application.
If participants return to their workplaces and continue doing things exactly as before, then meaningful learning has not taken place."
He challenged participants to apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the workshop to create meaningful change within their organizations.
The University Librarian further encouraged participants to prepare comprehensive reports for their employers outlining the knowledge gained during the training and expressing appreciation for the support received. He also recommended developing practical implementation roadmaps to demonstrate how the newly acquired skills will be integrated into their daily work, noting that such reports can strengthen institutional support for future staff development initiatives.
Dr. Chaputula also linked capacity-building initiatives to the aspirations of Malawi 2063, emphasizing that investing in professional skills contributes to the country's long-term socio-economic development through a skilled and innovative workforce.
The workshop concluded with the official declaration of closure, followed by a certificate presentation ceremony recognizing participants for successfully completing the training.
The event reaffirmed Mzuzu University Library's commitment to providing high-quality professional development programmes that promote innovation, lifelong learning, and collaboration while equipping professionals with the digital competencies needed to thrive in today's rapidly evolving workplace.
