Eager to be a part of history, 42 young women (18) and men (24) began coursework on August 27, 2003 in the new College of Education of the University of Livingstonia.  The College of Education joined Livingstonia Technical College, Livingstonia Theological College, Ekwendeni School of Nursing and the College of Commerce under the university umbrella, and opened its doors in a borrowed classroom at Livingstonia.  Despite many inconveniences to faculty, staff and students, this “first class” completed its first term on December 12, 2003.  Adjunct faculty from Mzuzu University, university administrators, Synod officials and many others joined in congratulating all in achieving this milestone.  Classes resumed on January 12, 2004 following a month recess.      

Students celebrate first day of classes!

University Leadership

The University of Livingstonia is fortunate to have two excellent leaders working hard on the development of the College of Education and the overall administration of the University of Livingstonia.

 Mr. Eliezer Kalumbi serves as principal of the College of Education.  He received a Bachelor of Education degree (1982) in education, history and English at Chancellor College of the University of Malawi.  His Masters in Education with a major in Education Communication and Technology (1983) also was earned at Chancellor College.

Kalumbi’s background includes service as head teacher of Bandawe, Mitundu, and Chitipa secondary schools.  He was Chief Examiner of JCE History and English Paper III.  More recently, he held positions as acting Regional Education Officer, Deputy Education Divisional Manager for education methods and advisory services, and District Education Manager.  Mr. Kalumbi comes to the university from Mzuzu University where he served as an adjunct lecturer of History.

University officials were pleased when retiring Dr. Augustine Msiska decided to leave his post as head librarian of Chancellor College, University of Malawi to “serve his Synod” by assuming responsibilities as an administrator for the university.  His primary task is to review the library resources for all 5 constituent colleges and form a plan to increase the text books and reference materials available to all students and faculty.  In addition, Msiska will be overseeing administrative functions for the university from his office at Livingstonia.

Dr. Msiska’s credentials include a Bachelor of Social Science (History, 1970) and a Master of Arts (History, 1992) awarded at the University of Malawi, and a Ph. D in Information Studies (2003) earned through the University of Natal.  Msiska brings with him extensive experience in library science and has held several top administrative positions during his career at the University of Zambia and University of Malawi.  His background includes a long list of publishing and teaching experience.

Both of these gentlemen bring extensive experience for their assignments and are proud to be a part of this historic venture.  Neither one is receiving competitive compensation at this time, yet, both are willing to share their expertise and energy because they believe the University of Livingstonia will provide excellence in educational opportunity for many young Malawians and a better future for the country.

Dossani Trust Gives K2m ($20,000 US) Scholarship Donation

“We are extremely happy that this donation goes to an educational institution which will assist in fulfilling the aspirations and dreams of some students,” said Trustee Dinker Raval of the Dossani Trust as he handed a check in the amount of 2 million Malawi kwacha (about $20,000 US) to Jake Muwamba.  “Starting a university is not an easy task.  I congratulate all those people who have put in their best efforts and wish the university, the fund raising committee and the students a bright future.”

Former U.N. Ambassador Muwamba, in his gratitude, said it is encouraging that organizations like the Dossani Trust have a keen interest in assisting the development of high educational standards in Malawi.  He assured Dossani officials that their donation would be used in the best interest of needy students.  Max Chinkhota, a member of the fund-raising committee, was on hand to witness the occasion and added that school officials will set criteria to determine which students will receive assistance.

         Fund-raising Committee and Commission Chair, Mr. Jake Muwamba

On December 12, 2003, the organizational meeting of the University of Livingstonia Foundation was held in Chehalis, Washington.  The University of Livingstonia Foundation brings together friends who are dedicated to the advancement of the University of Livingstonia located in northern Malawi, Africa.  Newly-elected president of the foundation, Jenny Sheldon Kirk states, “It is important for us, who have so much, to help the people of this developing third world country move toward self-sufficiency.” 

Serving on the foundation board are (l-r):  Tom Bradley, Accountant; Secretary, Henry Kirk; President, Jenny Sheldon Kirk; Treasurer, Vicki Nupen;

Brian Nupen (consultant); and Brian Kelly, Attorney

The foundation has been established to receive and distribute funds to support the needs of the University of Livingstonia.  Fund raisers will concentrate on contacting individuals and organizations that can help fund what the board considers basic needs for this fledgling university.

Priorities include finding those who want to help:  purchase updated teaching materials, supplies and equipment for classrooms; provide housing and furnishings so students and faculty can study, prepare for class and live comfortably; provide basic transportation for students and university personnel; attract and retain superior personnel; well-qualified students concentrate on their studies by giving tuition assistance.

Contributions may be made by mailing a check made out to the University of Livingstonia Foundation to:   University of Livingstonia Foundation, 555 NE Jefferson Avenue, Chehalis, WA  98532.

You can be a part of this historic moment! 

Help Malawians build a better future for themselves and their country.

Malawian Leaders Visit the United States

In October, 2003, Synod of Livingstonia General Secretary, Reverend H. Matiya Nkhoma and Livingstonia Technical College principal, Joseph Longwe visited the United States to learn how higher education is delivered here.  During their stay, Reverend Nkhoma signed an Associate Institute Agreement between the University of Livingstonia and City University located in Bellevue, Washington.  This four-year institution is headed by President Steve Stargardter. 

Henry Kirk, Rev. Nkhoma and Steve Stargardter at City U.                     Jim Walton, Joseph Longwe, Henry Kirk, and Steve Miller at Centralia College

Mr. Longwe later signed an agreement between Centralia College and Livingstonia Technical College.  President Jim Walton and Dean of Instruction Steve Miller signed on behalf of Centralia College.  Dr. Henry P. Kirk, who serves as Vice Chancellor for the University of Livingstonia witnessed both signings.  These associations will provide assistance with curriculum development, resource enhancement, eventually student, faculty and staff exchanges.

Africa Contact:  Synod of Livingstonia    P. O. Box 112  Mzuzu, Malawi, Africa    unilia@malawi.net

United States Contact:  Henry and Jenny Kirk   Chehalis, Washington   ulivingstonia@localaccess.com

Visit the University’s website at:  http://www.ulivingstonia.org