21/09/2026
On 4 September 2026, Millennium University in Blantyre hosted the fourth ARISE Scientific Showcasing Event, bringing together researchers, government representatives, academic leaders and international partners for an important conversation on mental health research, education and policy. 💙
Held under the theme “Securing Holistic Wellness through Scientific Cooperation in Mental Health Interventions and Research,” the showcase explored how locally generated evidence can contribute to practical interventions, stronger systems and better support for young people!
A special highlight for MHLeC was Dr Sandra Jumbe, ARISE Fellow at Millennium University, sharing the journey of the Mental Health Literacy e-Curriculum (MHLeC) and its work to strengthen mental health literacy among university students! 💙
We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Malawi Government and institutional representatives who contributed to these important conversations:
- Hon. Francis Folley, Deputy Minister of Education, Science and Technology, for opening the event and highlighting the connection between student mental wellbeing, education outcomes and Malawi's human capital development.
- Mr Victor Gondwe, from the National Commission for Science and Technology, for contributing to discussions on the implementation of Malawi's science and innovation priorities.
- Dr. Alexon Chiwaya, representing the Vice-Chancellor of Millennium University, for highlighting the importance of accessible support and early recognition of distress among students.
We also gratefully acknowledge Daniel Aristi-Gaztelumendi, EU Ambassador to Malawi; Benjamin Cabouat, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of France; and Dr James Mushori of AAS/ARISE, whose contributions strengthened the conversation around scientific cooperation, research capacity, and bringing evidence closer to policymakers, communities, and partners.
We are incredibly grateful to the African Academy of Sciences (AAS), Millennium University, the European Union in Malawi, the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), for creating a space where research, collaboration, and policy conversations could come together for all.
We appreciate the chance to contribute to conversations about bringing mental health research closer to the institutions, communities, and young people it's intended to serve!
Research is only the beginning. Connecting evidence with people, practice and policy is where meaningful impact can grow! 🌍💙
🔗 Read more from:
1. https://aasciences.africa/news/malawi-showcase-connects-mental-health-research-with-education-and-policy
2. https://www.flickr.com/photos/aasciences/albums/72177720335644731/
3. https://en.ird.fr/malawi-bringing-mental-health-research-closer-public-policy-and-universities
