LUANAR Set to Have a Modern STEM Laboratory
Posted: February 12, 2026 Posted By: Kondwani Kapaula
The Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) has taken a major step toward strengthening science education after receiving laboratory equipment for a new STEM centre from STEMPower, a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing practical science learning across Africa.
The donation marks the beginning of the centre’s establishment, with the facility set to be assembled in the coming weeks. Once operational, it will become part of STEMPower’s network of more than 150 laboratory-based learning hubs across sub-Saharan Africa, aimed at giving students direct access to modern technology and hands-on scientific experience.
The LUANAR Vice Chancellor, Professor Emmanuel Kaunda, described the development as a milestone for the university’s growth, saying the facility will enhance learning, strengthen research capacity, and improve collaboration across disciplines.
“This centre will enhance practical learning, promote interdisciplinary collaboration and position LUANAR as a leader in STEM education in Malawi and beyond,” he said.
He added that the initiative aligns with the university’s mission to produce graduates capable of addressing real-world challenges and contributing to national development.
Serukiza Espoir, STEMPower’s Chief Operations Officer for Rwanda, said the lab is designed to support interactive and practical teaching.
“The lab will basically have 29 computer workstations connected to one master computer. The master computer will allow the teacher to monitor what each student is working on. At the same time, students will be able to work independently on their tasks. There will also be one 3D printer, which will be used to develop prototypes so students can see how different designs look in real life,” he said.
The centre will also include an electronics laboratory fitted with about 15 workstations and specialised equipment for technical training. Students will further benefit from access to a range of software tools for design, simulation and project development.
STEMPower, established in the United States by the Gelfand Family Charitable Trust, works to expand access to STEM education through laboratory infrastructure and training programmes. Its initiatives support learning in fields such as virtual computing, electronics, 3D printing, soil and water science and chemical engineering, serving both school-level and university students.