Managing Infrastructure and Development at Mzuzu University
The Department of Projects and Estates at Mzuzu University was established as a support section in the Vice- Chancellor’s office responsible for overseeing Estates Management Services. The Department’s functions are guided by Mzuzu University’s Strategic Pillar 1 on optimum students experience through provision of relevant, adequate and well-maintained infrastructure.
The Department manages University facilities, housing, utilities, infrastructural development, and maintains the registry and records of both landed properties and facilities.
What we do
Dedicated to shaping a sustainable, functional, and inspiring campus environment.
Department of Projects and Estates works on continually improving the University estates by administering new constructions and refurbishment of existing buildings and infrastructures. It also develops innovative landscapes and manages environmental cleanliness, waste disposal, grounds and building maintenance.
Our Core Functions
- Improvement of the University estates by administering new constructions and refurbishment of existing buildings and infrastructure;
- Development of aesthetic landscapes and management of environment cleanliness, waste disposal and grounds;
- Facilitatati and carries out maintenance of all University Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HAVAC);
- Liaises with utility agencies to ensure regular and perpetual maintenance of their services at MZUNI premises;
- Facilitates proper design, review and implementation of the University Land (Master Plan)
Our Key Responsibilities
- Infrastructure planning and development
- Management of university buildings and estates
- Ensuring availability and sustainable use of utilities
- Maintenance and renovation of facilities
- Management of Environmental and Social Safeguards for construction projects
- Safety and compliance to regulations
To lead in the management of land, property, and facilities, contributing to the university's success by creating a sustainable and efficient environment for learning, teaching, and research
To provide, maintain, and optimize the use of physical facilities, develop infrastructure, and ensure the acquisition of quality resources to support the university's mission and vision (What does the directorate aim to achieve?)
Sustainability Initiatives, Partnerships and Collaborations
Partnerships and Collaborations
- Public Sector Investment Programme – Funding support for construction of the New Library, Auditorium and Associated Works; 2000-bed students hostels; Completion of Skills Application Centre for Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management; and Rehabilitation of campus facilities.
- Malawi Government (Ministry of Education) and The World Bank – Funds for construction of the ETIC building and ACENUB project.
- Mzuzu City Council – Regulatory framework for infrastructural development, waste management and facilities management
- The National Construction Industry Council (NCIC) – Construction standards regulation and training.
- Ungweru Organization – Waste management
- TEVET Authority – Personnel and technical support through internship programs for students from technical Collages.
Sustainability Initiatives
Energy-efficient buildings
- All new buildings are green designs whereby the designs maximizes on use of natural lighting and ventilation to minimize emissions from artificial heating and lighting systems.
- Solar power options to be introduced gradually in existing buildings from 1st April 2025.
Water conservation efforts
- Ground water used for non -domestic purpose (watering lawns and washing vehicles) at Luwinga campus and Balaka satellite centre. The same to be gradually expanded to Dunduzu, Karonga and Mulanje satellite centres.
Smart water installations used to curb water loss.
Established fast communication systems for reporting faults through hostel representatives
Green spaces and eco-friendly initiatives
Developed a campus master plan that incorporates green spaces and green staff and student recreation areas
Eco-friendly waste management initiatives deployed.