The Program Implementation Committee (PIC) for the TAGDev 2.0 project at the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) today held a meeting Mulanje to orient the members on the project scope and objectives and also the roles of PIC members. 

The meeting also discussed and brainstormed on the activities expected to be implemented under the project until 2033.

The TAGDev 2.0 project is funded by Mastercard Foundation and coordinated by the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM). 

The project aims to strengthen universities and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions to drive inclusive, equitable, and climate-resilient transformation of agriculture and agri-food systems in Africa.

Speaking during the meeting Dr Mwapasa Mipando, who is PIC chairperson, urged members to be productive and focused to achieve the project's intended results. 

He emphasized the importance of being competitive globally to gain trust and relevance from the project's donors.

Dr Cecilia Maliwichi Nyirenda, Project Manager for TAGDev 2.0, presented an overview of the project. 

She highlighted the project's goal to create work opportunities and wealth for young people through agricultural education.

The project seeks to foster an inclusive and supportive educational environment, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to contribute to Africa's growth and development. 

This includes targeting young people, refugees, internally displaced persons, and differently abled people.

The project's coordinator, Dr Petros Chigwechokha, discussed the roles of the PIC and the project's budget. 

He outlined the key responsibilities of the committee and the financial resources available to support the project's activities.

Twelve African universities, including MUST, were selected to implement the project.