R I President Johnathan Majiyagbe Visits Malawi

While in Malawi last summer, Hank and Jenny Kirk were invited to attend the Lilongwe Rotary Club’s dinner in honor of Rotary International President Johnathan Majiyagbe. 

Mr. Majiyagbe was touring Malawi as one of his official visits during his presidency.  The dinner was held at the New State House on Sunday, August 3, 2003.

Majiyagbe, an attorney from Nigeria, stated, “My main emphasis as the first African president will be poverty alleviation, health and sanitation, and education with emphasis on the fight against food insecurity, HIV/Aids, and illiteracy levels.”  He congratulated Rotarians Drs. Austin Mkandawire and Henry P. Kirk on their important work in establishing the University of Livingstonia in Malawi.

Centralia Rotary Helps “feed” an Education Baby!

The University of Livingstonia is just 4 months old, and as Malawians say, “this education baby is hungry – all the time!”  Centralia Rotary Club is indeed helping “feed” the baby during its critical first months of operation.  The Club’s Board of Directors recently approved a $1,000 be made to the University of Livingstonia Foundation.  The Club’s contribution will help ensure a successful beginning for the university.  Fellow Rotarians from this area Tom Bradley, Brian Kelly, Hank Kirk and Vicki Nupen along with Jenny Kirk serve on the Board of Directors of the foundation – keeping a watchful eye on the funds received and disbursed to benefit the university.

In a conversation with university officials, the Kirks were told that, despite heavy rains, intermittent electricity and a myriad of details that still need attention, the University of Livingstonia and its 5 constituent colleges are surviving.  The contributions of many, including Centralia Rotary Club, are making all of this possible.

The Kirks recently spoke with Dr. Augustine Msiska who shared with them the great news that students of the newly-established College of Education just completed their first semester of classes.  Final exams have been taken – the tests are being graded and evaluated at this very moment!  Can you imagine the excitement felt by 42 students, the faculty and staff as this first milestone is passed?  Dr. Msiska also reported that he expects all of the students will be asked to continue for the second semester which begins January 15, 2004.  Jenny and Hank will return to Malawi for the months of February, March and April 2004 – they will work with university, Synod and college administrators on sustainability planning.

To all members of Centralia Rotary Club, Malawians send greetings and best wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year.  Many thanks for your continuing support of this international service project. 

Get ready – the baby soon will need shoes!!!