Prof. Burton Mwamila, the first Vice Chancellor of the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, urged lecturers, innovators, and employees of the institution to leverage their talents to achieve the specific goals for which the institution was established. He made this call during a public lecture on September 25, 2025, titled “Fostering Research and Innovation in Higher Learning Institutions.”

“The aim of establishing this institution is to address the challenges facing society and industry, providing solutions to those challenges, let us accomplish this goal to make Africa a better place in areas of Science and Technology,” – Prof. Mwamila.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Maulilio Kipanyula added that since its inception, the institution has successfully produced over 215 professionals in the fields of science, technology, and innovation, many of whom are now employed in various universities and institutions across the country. He highlighted some of the notable innovations developed at NM-AIST, including a nanofilter, instant porridge for children, patients, and the elderly, as well as a biogas production plant and its accompanying stove, among others.

Prof. Lilian Pasape, Dean of the School of Business Studies and Humanities, expressed gratitude to Prof. Mwamila for his visit, noting that he clarified  the path for attendees of the public lecture. She emphasized the importance of the institution’s role in contributing to solutions for societal and industrial challenges, fostering cooperation between institutions, and promoting collaboration between public and private organizations to enhance the economy and improve service delivery.