Unicaf University marked International Women’s Day with a meaningful outreach initiative, TechHer: Empowering Girls through Mentorship, held at Likuni Girls’ Secondary School in Lilongwe. The event aimed to inspire and equip young female students with the confidence, knowledge, and guidance needed to pursue their academic and professional ambitions, particularly in technology-related fields.
The initiative reflects Unicaf University’s continued commitment to promoting gender equity in education and addressing the digital literacy gap among young women. Originally designed as a hands-on digital skills programme, TechHer evolved into a dynamic empowerment session combining motivational speaking, career guidance, peer mentorship, and interactive learning.
A delegation of 12 representatives from Unicaf University led the engagement. The team was headed by Student Affairs Officer, Mr Limbani Mwale and featured Mrs Queen Manthimba Phiri as the lead facilitator. The session engaged approximately 120 Form 4 students.
The programme was structured into three key segments, beginning with a powerful motivational presentation by Mrs Phiri, who shared her personal educational journey and professional experiences. Her message encouraged students to challenge limiting beliefs, embrace resilience, and consider broader career possibilities, including opportunities in technology and other professional sectors.
This was followed by an interactive group session, where students explored various career pathways and reflected on their personal aspirations. Guided by Unicaf University students from disciplines such as Computer Science and Business, participants engaged in meaningful discussions and presented their ideas to their peers, demonstrating a strong understanding of informed decision-making as they prepare for life beyond secondary school.
The session concluded with reflections from Unicaf University students, who shared their academic experiences and offered practical advice on navigating higher education and career choices. This peer-to-peer engagement fostered a relatable and supportive environment, strengthening the connection between the university and prospective students.
The impact of the TechHer initiative was evident throughout the event, as students actively participated, asked insightful questions, and continued engaging with mentors even after the formal programme concluded. The presence of university students as mentors played a key role in inspiring confidence, ambition, and a belief in achievable success.
Beyond its impact on the participating learners, the initiative also provided students with valuable experience in mentorship, communication, and community engagement, reinforcing the University’s commitment to developing socially responsible graduates.
Through initiatives like TechHer, Unicaf University continues to champion education as a powerful tool for empowerment, helping to shape a future where young women are confident, capable, and equipped to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
