The MUBAS Technology Transfer Office (TTO), in collaboration with UniPod, recently conducted an impactful outreach visit to Chitawira Primary School in Blantyre. The visit was led by Mike and Umar as part of ongoing efforts to promote innovation, technology adoption, and intellectual property (IP) awareness among young learners.

At MUBAS Technology Transfer Office, we strongly believe that innovation begins with curiosity. When nurtured early, that curiosity can transform into creativity, invention, and entrepreneurship that drives national development. The purpose of the visit was to enlighten pupils about the importance of protecting their intellectual property and to demonstrate how UniPod can support them in embracing and leveraging technology for positive change.

Introducing Innovation to Young Minds

During the session, learners were introduced to key concepts in a simple, engaging, and relatable way. The discussion focused on:

🔹 What innovation means

🔹 Why creative ideas matter

🔹 How inventions can solve real-world problems

🔹 The basics of protecting ideas through intellectual property

The pupils were encouraged to think about problems they see in their communities and how they might design solutions. Through interactive discussions, they learned that even small ideas can grow into impactful inventions when properly developed and protected.

Understanding Intellectual Property

A significant part of the engagement centered on intellectual property protection. The learners were guided on why it is important to safeguard their ideas, inventions, and creative works. They were introduced to the concept that their thoughts and innovations have value — and that protecting them ensures recognition, ownership, and potential future benefits.

By introducing IP awareness at a primary school level, the TTO is helping lay a foundation for a generation that understands not only how to create, but also how to protect and commercialize their innovations responsibly.

Showcasing the Role of UniPod

Mike and Umar also highlighted how UniPod serves as a hub for innovation, providing access to technology, mentorship, and practical tools that help transform ideas into tangible solutions. The learners were encouraged to work hard in their studies and aspire to join innovation spaces like UniPod in the future, where they can further develop their skills in science, technology, and entrepreneurship.

The session emphasized that technology is not something distant or unattainable — it is a tool they can learn, use, and master to improve their communities.

A Bright and Promising Future

The enthusiasm, bold ideas, and thoughtful questions from the pupils were a powerful reminder of the immense potential within Malawi’s young generation. Their curiosity and confidence demonstrated that when given the right exposure and encouragement, young learners can begin to see themselves as future inventors, engineers, and problem-solvers.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the administration and teachers at Chitawira Primary School for the warm welcome and partnership in nurturing innovation at the grassroots level.

As MUBAS Technology Transfer Office continues its outreach mission, we remain committed to building a culture of innovation and intellectual property awareness from the ground up — inspiring the next generation to think creatively, protect their ideas, and contribute meaningfully to a technologically empowered Malawi.