In an exclusive interview with Muslim Media Agency, Hawa shared, “My academic journey began at Chayamba Secondary School, where I worked tirelessly to achieve excellence.” After scoring 18 points in her Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE), she secured her place at the Polytechnic, setting the stage for what she calls “a truly transformative experience.”
Navigating the rigorous demands of university life was no small feat. From her first year, Hawa focused on excelling academically, setting clear goals, and prioritizing her tasks.
“I made it a point to seek help from lecturers and peers whenever I hit a roadblock,” she explained. “Developing a solid support system carried me through challenges such as complex coursework, intensive projects, and tough examinations.”
Her journey was not without personal obstacles, but she turned these barriers into fuel for her determination.
“The pillar of my achievement was relying on swallah (prayer),” she emphasized, highlighting her deep faith as her greatest source of strength.
Hawa’s success, she noted, was also shaped by the kindness and support of those around her.
“I had lecturers, friends, and mentors who genuinely believed in me and stepped in when I needed help most,” she said. Inspired by their encouragement, Hawa now feels a strong responsibility to give back. “I want to uplift others in my community, just as others did for me.”
Her program, Food Science and Technology, focuses on applying scientific principles to understand the nature, composition, and properties of food. “It’s a field that requires a solid foundation in sciences like biology, chemistry, and physics,” Hawa explained.
For secondary school students aspiring to follow in her footsteps, she offers simple yet powerful advice: “Focus on your sciences, maths, and English. Get hands-on experience through agriculture or food-related activities. Research universities and stay curious and driven.”
Looking ahead, Hawa plans to venture into farming while exploring job opportunities and scholarships. “My dream is to contribute to improving food production, processing, and safety in Malawi,” she said. By combining practical farming experience with academic knowledge, she is determined to make a meaningful impact on food security and sustainability.
