Recognising the important role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in national development and the opportunities presented by Malawi’s youthful population, the Innovation Hub has prioritised early digital skills development through programmes that promote creativity, problem-solving, coding, and computational thinking.

One of its key initiatives is the Hello Tomorrow Programme, launched in 2022. The programme introduces children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 to programming using platforms such as Scratch and Python. It provides an inclusive learning environment where young learners can explore technology and develop digital skills regardless of their previous exposure to computers.

The Hub has also strengthened its community outreach through partnerships that bring digital learning opportunities to underserved communities. In August 2025, the Innovation Hub partnered with the Kairos Sporting Foundation to provide digital literacy training to young people from Chirimba in Blantyre.

On 23 August 2025, 40 children from the foundation participated in an interactive training session at the Innovation Hub. The session introduced participants to basic computer skills and Scratch programming while highlighting the importance of digital literacy in different career pathways. Through hands-on activities, the learners were encouraged to explore technology, develop creativity, and build confidence in using digital tools.

The Innovation Hub’s impact also extends to young adults and professionals seeking to strengthen their employability and entrepreneurial capabilities. In 2025, the Hub conducted two short courses in Data Analytics using Python, covering areas such as data management, cleaning, visualisation, manipulation, and statistical modelling.

The foundational course, held from 7 June to 6 July 2025, attracted 11 participants, while the advanced course, conducted from 15 November to 14 December 2025, enrolled five participants. In total, 16 participants, comprising 13 males and three females, benefited from the two programmes.

The Hub also provides valuable experiential learning opportunities for MUBAS students. Senior students from computer engineering and information technology disciplines participate as facilitators and mentors, enabling them to strengthen their communication, leadership, and practical teaching skills while contributing to community development.

Through these initiatives, the MUBAS Innovation Hub is helping to bridge the digital skills gap by connecting the university with surrounding communities. By providing children, young people, and aspiring professionals with practical digital skills, the Hub is contributing to inclusive participation in Malawi’s growing digital economy and supporting the country’s Malawi 2063 vision of a skilled, innovative, and productive population.