The ceremony, which was presided by the Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of Malawi Professor Al Mtenje, who was also the guest of honour, saw 217 students graduating from different institutions including the Polytechnic Management Development Centre.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Pro Vice Chancellor congratulated the graduates for putting up hard work and taking steps in their lives.

“Each one of you is here today through your own sustained hard work, you needed courage and determination to face the challenges of higher learning,” he said.

Professor Mtenje pointed out that the graduates developed certain qualities of character and mind to achieve this, such as: empathy, independent and careful thinking plus the ability to disagree without being disagreeable.

In his remarks, the Director of IOB and President of Bankers Association of Malawi, Mr  Kwanele Ngwenya connected the theme of this year which he says is the Financial Inclusion  to the graduation occasion.

“While we might select best students from secondary schools, our policy is open, we believe that the message of financial inclusion which you have started here will take you to a stage where access to financial services is widely acknowledged in promoting, enhancing capital accumulation and raising the level of investments in Malawi,” Ngwenya said.

The Chief Executive Officer of IOB, Mrs Lyness Nkungula congratulated the graduates and encouraged those already working in banks and other organization to continue working hard.

The Dean of Faculty of Commerce, Dr Betchani Tchereni, did the presentation of the names of the candidates.

Other delegates present were Dr Benedicto Wokomaatani Malunga, Mr Mc Fussy Kawawa, Mr Eric Chimpesa, Dr Madalitso Tsakamwa and Mr Martin Matululu.