The University of Malawi (UNIMA) has honoured Udikililebe hitmaker, Amidu Bonface Ibrahim, known by his stage name Amidu Ellan Muonjeza, with the prestigious Vice-Chancellor’s Extraordinary Award.
Amidu, a fourth-year Bachelor of Arts Humanities student, was recognised during a ceremony celebrating the best-performing students in the 2024/2025 academic year for his exceptional musical talent, unwavering support for others and strong team spirit.
Presenting the award, UNIMA’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Sunduzwayo Madise, praised Amidu’s contribution to keeping the university in public conversations through his music.
“Amidu’s work through music goes beyond academics to impact change,” said Madise.
Amidu also boasts an impressive GPA of 4.0, qualifying him for this distinguished honour.
To show his appreciation, Amidu captivated the audience by performing his popular song Udikililebe which was accorded applause by the audience.
He said the award means a lot to him.
“I am humbled to receive this award. Music is not just a passion—it’s a tool to inspire and connect with others,” Amidu remarked.
The Vice-Chancellor’s Extraordinary Award, the highest honour of the evening, was presented to only one student this year—Amidu. In addition, several outstanding students received the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for their academic excellence.
These recipients included Oren Ntikama (Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science (Hons), Year 3), Wanangwa Kawamba (Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Sciences (Hons), Year 3), Fanuel A. Mlinde (Diploma in Statistics, Year 1), Lucy Dickman (Bachelor of Science in Statistics, Year 4), Hope Chikakuda (Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Year 2), and Fortune Peter (Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Sciences (Hons), Year 1).
Other recipients were Yankho Ntapasha (Bachelor of Science in Statistics, Year 3), Ethel Phiri (Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Year 4), Smith Steward Dominic (Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Sciences (Hons), Year 1), Steria Mumba (Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Year 2), and Innocent Mlozi (Diploma in Statistics, Year 2).
Furthermore, 162 students achieved the distinction of being named to the Dean’s List, recognizing their exceptional academic performance.
