The African Data and Drone Academy (ADDA) at Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) has renewed its dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among Malawian youth. In a recent meeting with officials from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and UNICEF, Dr. Chikondi Chisenga, ADDA’s coordinator, outlined the academy’s efforts to equip young people with crucial skills to address the country’s pressing challenges.
Dr. Chisenga emphasized ADDA’s focus on drone operations, data analysis, climate change management, and disaster management as essential areas for nurturing innovative ideas. These programs are designed to help young Malawians become entrepreneurs and tackle issues such as climate change. Despite these efforts, Dr. Chisenga noted that inadequate funding remains a significant obstacle for young innovators attempting to implement their ideas.
Dr. Atikonda Mtenje Mkochi, representing the MUST Vice Chancellor, praised ADDA as a beacon of hope for Malawi, highlighting its role in achieving the Malawi 2063 development goals by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among youth. Simon Molendijk, UNICEF’s Chief of Education and Adolescents Development and Participation, lauded ADDA for its exceptional contribution to training young innovators and problem-solvers.
Isaac Katopola, Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Youth and Sports, assured ADDA of government support, promising to seek financial assistance from government agencies to help bring young innovators’ ideas to fruition. During the visit, officials toured ADDA’s facilities to witness firsthand the impactful work being done by the academy.
