Students from Unicaf University in Malawi participated in an educational field visit to VillageReach offices in Lilongwe, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to experiential learning and industry–academia collaboration in the field of public health.
The visit was organised to provide students with firsthand exposure to innovative health systems strengthening initiatives, digital health solutions, and supply chain management practices implemented across Malawi. By engaging directly with professionals managing national-level programmes, students were able to connect theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom with real-world implementation.
VillageReach was selected for the study visit due to its significant contribution to Malawi’s health sector, particularly in telehealth services, epidemic preparedness, logistics optimisation, and technology-driven health delivery systems. The engagement aligns with Unicaf University’s strategic focus on enhancing student employability through professional exposure, research-informed practice, and partnership development.
The session was structured into two main components: a presentation by the VillageReach team followed by an interactive Question and Answer session.
Mr Charles Matemba, Supply Chain Manager at VillageReach, opened the session with a presentation outlining the organisation’s mission to reduce health inequities and strengthen access to quality healthcare services. He presented a comprehensive overview of VillageReach’s work in Malawi from 2008 to 2025, demonstrating its evolution from community-based projects to nationally scaled health systems innovations. Key programme milestones included rural maternal and child health initiatives, the introduction of the national toll-free telehealth hotline Chipatala cha pa Foni (54747), pharmacy assistant training programmes, drone-supported medical deliveries, COVID-19 response interventions, and disease surveillance systems supporting epidemic preparedness.
Mr Steven Simkonda, VillageReach’s IT Specialist, delivered a presentation focusing on digital solutions integrated within VillageReach programmes, highlighting how technology improves data visibility, enhances efficiency, and strengthens last-mile service delivery. Systems presented included telehealth platforms, drone-enabled logistics networks, and digital communication systems deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Students actively participated in the interactive session, raising questions related to digital supply chain management, internship opportunities, and strategies for increasing public awareness of health programmes. The discussion fostered meaningful engagement and highlighted potential areas for future collaboration between the two institutions.
The field visit provided students with valuable insights into the complexity of managing health systems in resource-constrained environments and the importance of community engagement in overcoming behavioural and access barriers. Participants gained a deeper understanding of how health initiatives evolve from pilot projects to nationwide programmes, as well as the critical role of technology in addressing last-mile delivery challenges.
Overall, the engagement successfully bridged theory and practice, strengthened professional networks, and reinforced the relevance of academic programmes to Malawi’s national health priorities. The visit also laid the foundation for potential future partnerships and internship opportunities that will further enhance student development and sector collaboration.
Unicaf University remains committed to creating transformative learning experiences that prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully to healthcare systems and community development across the region.
