Dr. Joshua Chisambi is the Head of the Department of Mining Engineering. He brings to the institution more than a decade of robust industrial and technical experience in geosciences, spanning geotechnical investigations, geological mapping, mineral exploration, structural geology, environmental impact assessment, GIS, and remote sensing. His career integrates deep field-based expertise with advanced analytical capabilities, positioning him as one of the leading Earth science professionals contributing to the development of Malawi’s mining and geological sectors.
Before joining academia, Dr. Chisambi served as a Geologist at the Department of Geological Surveys, where he was actively involved in nationwide geological investigations and exploration initiatives. His transition into academia was driven by a commitment to advancing geoscience education, strengthening research capacity, and nurturing the next generation of mining professionals equipped to address both national and global resource challenges.
He holds a PhD in Geology from Stellenbosch University in South Africa, an MSc in Applied Earth Sciences from the University of Twente (ITC) in the Netherlands, and a BSc in Geology from the University of Malawi. His academic journey through these internationally recognized institutions has equipped him with advanced research methodologies, modern analytical techniques, and a global perspective on geological sciences.
Dr. Chisambi’s research focuses on mineral exploration and the reconstruction of hydrothermal systems to understand the physico-chemical environments that lead to ore formation. His work includes the development of regional mineralization targeting methods, leveraging remote sensing and airborne geophysical datasets. He has extensive experience in interpreting multi- and hyperspectral imagery, gamma-ray spectrometry, magnetic data, gravity datasets, and integrating these with field observations and laboratory measurements to aid mineral exploration.
His research contributions not only support academic advancement but also provide practical insights for Malawi’s mining industry, particularly in identifying mineral potential and understanding ore-forming processes. As a departmental head, Dr. Chisambi is committed to strengthening Mining Engineering training through research-driven teaching, industry collaboration, and the promotion of modern geoscientific tools and techniques.
Background
Mining Engineering is a department under the School of Engineering at the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS) providing short, medium and long-term training. The Department offers several undergraduate programmes which are in line with the Government’s initiatives of diversifying the economy from Agro-based to Mining. These include the Bachelor of Geological Engineering (Hons); Bachelor of Mining Engineering (Hons) and Bachelor of Metallurgical and Mineral Processing Engineering (Hons). These programmes run for five years. The department also offers a three years Diploma programmes in Geological Engineering, Mining Engineering and Metallurgical and Mineral Processing Engineering. Furthermore, it also offers a Master of Science in Sustainable Engineering (Mining) which has a duration of three years.
The Department offers its programmes through class-based teaching, hours of laboratory and field practical work by the students using active learning and teaching methods.
Members of staff in the department and students work in close collaboration with industry partners, to make mining operations safer, more efficient, more productive, less impactful on the natural environment, and more cost effective.
Uniqueness
This is the only Mining Engineering Department in Malawi offering hardcore mining engineering, metallurgical engineering and geology (with an engineering approach). The programmes are further enriched with entrepreneurship and management skills to produce well-rounded, industry-ready graduates. The department is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratory facilities that not only enhance students’ practical learning experience but also support staff and students in conducting cutting-edge research that responds to the needs of the extractive industry both locally and internationally.
Existing Facilities
The Department of Mining Engineering is well supported by a comprehensive range of facilities, including fully equipped laboratories, specialised software, and a team of highly experienced, qualified, and dedicated academic staff, all of which create an effective environment for teaching and learning. The laboratories include a Petrographic Laboratory, Geochemistry Laboratory, Computer Laboratory, Soil and Rock Mechanics Laboratory, Metallurgical and Mineral Processing Laboratory, and a Sample Preparation section. All laboratories are adequately equipped to meet the requirements of the programmes offered, supporting both undergraduate and postgraduate training.