When Habibu Steven earned 13 points in his Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations at Chimwankhunda Community Day Secondary School in Blantyre in 2018, it was not just a personal victory, it was the beginning of a journey fueled by purpose and determination.
“That score gave me the chance to pursue a five-year Bachelor’s Degree in Geological Engineering at the Polytechnic then a constituent college of the University of Malawi ( UNIMA) and now the Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS)” he tells Muslim Media Agency.
Habibu says his path through university was not easy . He says : “I faced challenges like tough courses, limited resources, and very tight schedules.”
He adds: “But I stayed committed. I worked hard, joined study groups, and took every fieldwork and lab session seriously.”
What kept him going ? “Faith and focus,” he answers without hesitation. “I prayed to Allah for strength and guidance. I reminded myself that giving up was not an option.”
Now a graduate, Habibu is determined to put his knowledge to work for the good of his country.
“I plan to gain practical experience through internships or jobs. Ultimately, I want to contribute to Malawi’s development by working on infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, water systems and mining.”
He emphasizes the importance of sustainability.
“I want to help ensure proper site investigations, safe construction practices, and responsible use of our natural resources,” he explains, adding that his goal is to use his skills to solve problems and make a real impact.
For aspiring engineers, Habibu offers heartfelt advice: “Be patient, stay focused, and work hard. Don’t shy away from asking for help, and always believe in yourself. Above all, keep praying for guidance and strength.”
As he moves forward, Habibu is clear about his mission. “With determination, faith, and the right skills, we can all contribute to building a better Malawi, insha Allah.”
