Standard Bank Malawi invests in National Robotics Challenge

By Wezi Nyirongo

Standard Bank Malawi has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing technology education and empowering young innovators by injecting K15 million towards the Robotics for Good Youth Challenge.

This follows a national event held on 22 April 2025 in Blantyre, which brought together bright minds aged 13–19 from across Malawi to showcase homegrown solutions in robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).

This initiative is part of the Malawi Girls Can Code Too project, which is funded by the Embassy of Ireland and spearheaded by UN Women Malawi.

In a statement, Standard Bank Head of Brand and Marketing Tamanda Ng’ombe says the bank remains steadfast in its mission to drive national progress by investing in education, supporting innovation, and creating tangible opportunities for future change-makers.

“Our participation in this challenge reflects Standard Bank’s commitment to building a future where technology serves as a tool for positive change, and we are proud to stand alongside our partners in nurturing forward-thinking, solution-oriented young minds,” said Ng’ombe.

“It reflects our unwavering commitment to unlocking potential through digital education, supporting inclusive innovation, and empowering the next generation to shape the Malawi envisioned in Vision 2063,” she emphasized.

UN Women Malawi Country Representative Letty Chiwara also hailed Standard Bank for bankrolling the technology event.

“Standard Bank’s investment in youth innovation is a powerful testament to its commitment to driving Malawi’s growth. We are proud to support initiatives that nurture innovation, promote gender equality, and equip young people with the digital skills needed to shape a sustainable future.”

The National Robotics Challenge is implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Gender, iMoSyS, UNDP, and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to equip the youth with the digital skills needed to solve climate-related challenges.

The winners of the competition will represent Malawi at the Global Robotics for Good Youth Challenge Grand Finale in Geneva on July 8, 2025.

This international stage is expected to offer a unique opportunity for Malawian students to demonstrate their talent and contribute to global conversations on AI-driven solutions.