NICO Group, through its subsidiaries NICO Asset Managers and NBS Bank has donated K100 million to Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) for the refurbishment of student’s hostels.

The donation was made at a luncheon commemorating Vice Chancellor, Professor Emmanuel Kaunda’s one year in office.

NICO Group Managing Director, Vizenge Kumwenda, said the NICO appreciates the value education brings to the country, and is committed to ensuring that students have the facilities needed to help them get their education.

“We were here a few weeks ago for a business engagement with LUANAR Management, and we were briefed on key projects that needed funding to ensure students access better facilities. Among which was the need to refurbish hostels, cafeteria and library. We were deeply concerned with the state of these facilities and decided to come on board and assist with the refurbishment of the hostels to make the students time here more comfortable,” Kumwenda said.

He further urged students to make use of the institution facilities, and tutors in bettering their future.

“Education is one thing that no one can take from you. Once you get that qualification, no one can claim it – that degree is yours. So, I urge all students to use their time here wisely and make use of the resources,” he added.

Professor Emmanuel Kaunda expressed gratitude and said the donation has come at the right time and will go a long way.

“This donation is quite timely. Not only for the students but also for the African Union 5 Region Youth Games set to take place in December 2022, where LUANAR has been identified as one of the hosts for the athletes ,” Professor Kaunda said.

He further described his one year in office as successful due to the support he has received within the institution and organizations such as NICO.

Guest of Honor at the luncheon and Chairman of Council, Professor Zachary Kasomekera, reiterated Professor Kaunda’s sentiments, adding that LUANAR’s relationship with NICO is valuable.

“We are grateful for the support that NICO continues to provide towards the betterment of education in Malawi,” Professor Kasomekera said.

The event also saw Professor Kaunda presenting Value in Action Awards to three nominees. These are given to LUANAR staff who have championed the university’s core value of the month, which was Integrity for the month of August.

NICO Group remains committed to being a responsible corporate citizen and supporting various sectors of the economy in communities that it operates.