A high-level team from the Skills for a Vibrant Economy (SAVE) Project Implementation Unit (PIU) in Lilongwe, on June 10, 2026 visited the lecture theatre constriction site at the Malawi University of Science and Technology in Thyolo.

According to Program Manager for the SAVE Project, Grenard Mkwende, the visit was aimed at appreciating progress and map the way forward on expediting the work to beat the project closing deadline of June 30, 2026.

In his remarks, Mkwende bemoaned the slow progress of the 500-seater lecturer theatre complex.

“I know we lost some time due to the fatal accident we had at some point but we could have been somewhere by now if we committed resources and personnel on time. Money for this project is there and it is hard to understand why we are behind schedule because in most cases, projects are delayed by lack of funds,” he said.

“Going forward, I want a commitment from the contractor on what they will do to ensure we are done by deadline day. I do not want to hear explanations or excuses.”

On his part, Dan Chale of DEC Construction promised to workout a recovery plan in consultation with the client, MUST and the consultant.

“Already we have increased personnel including engineers, foremen and labourers to ensure we cover a lot of ground. Each of these engineers and foremen have been assigned sections to ensure they meet the deadlines for complete,” said Chale, while indicating that while they are focusing on the June 30 deadline, a more realistic competition date based on the remaining works, would be August.

Meanwhile, MUST Save Project Coordinator, Dr Tiwonge Mzumara-Gawa has urged for a close working relationship among the critical players, which include the consultant, contractor and client.

She said previous agreements on tasks and timelines were not being adhered to, leading to general delays in the project.

Apart from the lecture theatre construction, the SAVE Project, funded by the World Bank and Government of Malawi, has also supported a number of other initiatives at MUST, including staff capacity development, promotion of STEM education among females, and curriculum review.