The Copyright Society of Malawi (COSOMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of Malawi’s creative arts sector, as it continues to promote opportunities for young artists to develop professional skills.
The commitment comes after a five-day art bootcamp hosted by the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), with support from COSOMA through the Copyright Fund.
The bootcamp, which concluded on August 21, brought together artists and facilitators for an intensive period of artistic production, teamwork and skills development, with participants describing the experience as transformative.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, Tikhale Chikanda from the Copyright Fund said art plays an important role in society and should not be viewed as a luxury.
“Art is an essential part of our society because it shapes how we see and understand the world. We remain committed to supporting the arts and creating opportunities for artists to develop their skills,” said Chikanda.
He encouraged participants to take the skills gained during the bootcamp into the professional world and use them to contribute to the growth of Malawi’s creative industry.
Executive Dean of the Bingu School of Culture and Heritage at MUST, Dr Atikonda Mtenje-Mkochi, thanked the organisers, Copyright Fund, facilitators and participants for making the programme a success.
“We are here to celebrate your creativity, passion and the future born from your transformative time at MUST,” she said, adding that academic innovation should extend beyond research facilities and lecture halls to embrace visual design, sound and storytelling.
For participant Cathy Mwiya, the bootcamp provided more than technical skills, helping participants develop confidence and trust in their own creative abilities.
“Our transformation is incredible. We started with doubt and blank canvases, but today we leave as a tight-knit community of confident artists,” said Mwiya.
The initiative aligns with MUST’s efforts to nurture national talent and promote socio-economic development through the creative arts, while providing young creatives with practical skills that can support their professional growth.
The closing ceremony ended with poems, songs and artistic displays, followed by the presentation of certificates of attendance to participants.
