The Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) is set to host its fourth annual Cultural and Research Innovation Festival from September 10 to 12, 2026.
The three-day event will take place at the university’s Ndata Campus in Thyolo.
Lead organiser and Dean for the Bingu School of Culture and Heritage, Dr Atikonda Mtenje-Mkochi has indicated that the festival will bring together science, technology, arts, culture and heritage under one platform.
Mkochi said the goal is to showcase how different disciplines can work together to address development challenges.
Held under the theme “Integrating Science, Technology, Arts, Culture and Heritage for Sustainable Innovation and Development in the Global South,” the festival aims to connect academic research with cultural preservation and economic opportunities.
“We want to create a space where research does not stay on the shelf, but translates into solutions that benefit communities,” Mkochi said.
The first two days will be dedicated to the Research Dissemination Conference, providing a platform for researchers, students, innovators and other stakeholders to share knowledge.
“Topics will include artificial intelligence and data science, climate resilience, health, agriculture, indigenous knowledge, creative industries, entrepreneurship and youth skills,” said Mkochi.
On the third and final day, attention will shift to the Cultural Festival.
The day will celebrate Malawi’s rich heritage through music, dance, poetry, art, traditional food and creative enterprise.
“This festival gives us a chance to preserve it while also using it to drive innovation and tourism,” She added.
The event will also feature technology and innovation displays giving visitors an opportunity to see AI and arts exhibitions, agricultural innovations, and heritage-based technologies developed by MUST staff and students.
More than 3,000 people including 50 exhibitors, 50 cultural groups, 30 SMEs, schools, government departments, traditional leaders, private sector partners and international delegates are expected to attend the event.
