By Arkangel Tembo, New York, USA

New York, September 20, Mana: President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has commended Stevens Institute of Technology for showing great level of commitment to promoting educational exchange and collaboration between the United States (US)and Africa. 

The State President made the remarks Thursday evening during the second Annual Africa – US Presidential Forum held in Hoboken, New Jersey in the United States of America (USA).

Chakwera was awarded a Presidential honorary award for his tireless efforts in promoting education among the youth in Malawi and Africa.

He said the forum is a great platform as it aims at equipping African youth with relevant skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics STEM and Artificial Intelligence in enhancing their employability and empowering them to drive the continent's progress. 

"It pleasing to note that Malawian students will be admitted at this prestigious university to further their studies in various technological skills for the betterment of their country,” Chakwera said.

In his remarks, President of Stevens Institute of Technology, Dr. Nariman Farvardin, said the university organized the event in partnership with Nekotech Centre of Excellence to show it's commitment to foster technological innovation and educational excellence to ensuring a brighter future for Africa's next generation of leaders and innovators.

"This event as it aims at strengthening educational ties between Africa and US in ensuring that Africa remains at the forefront of technological progress," Farvardin said.

Apart from the President Chakwera, some of the awardees of the Presidential Honorary Awards include, former President of the Republic of Malawi, Dr Joyce Banda, Bio President of the of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada, and King Tackie Tsuru 2, President of the Ga State in Ghana.

A Malawian lady, Chipiliro Chisao also received graduate ambassador awards in the female category, while Brima Lakol from Sierra Leone received the same award in men category.

The Africa – US Presidential Forum, annually, brings together African presidents, US government officials, corporate leaders and dignitaries to discuss critical issues in strategic workforce training, with a focus on STEM education and AI-focused learning.

Stevens Institute of Technology is a premier private research university in Hoboken, New Jersey with a rich legacy of technological innovation.

Over 1,000 students are expected to benefit from the scholarship at Stevens Institute of Technology through Nekotech Centre of Excellence.