Library Department conducts record management workshop

Various departments within the University of Malawi offer training programs to equip people from different sectors with essential skills and knowledge. Employees from different government and private institutions, such as EGENCO, Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM), Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences (MUBAS), Malawi Bureau of Standards (MBS), University of Malawi (UNIMA), and others, recently participated in a training program organized by the Library department titled “Developing a Functional Records Classification System.” The workshop was held from 24th to 26th April 2024, at the ICT Business Centre.

The workshop was officially opened with remarks from the University Librarian, Mr. Sitima Ndau. He began by commending the course coordinator, Assistant Librarian Ms. Jessy Mphunda, for her effective organization of the workshop. Mr. Ndau highlighted the existing gap in records management across many organizations and encouraged the participants to approach the workshop with seriousness and dedication, emphasizing that today’s records management challenges are both real and pressing. He also urged participants to fully engage in all sessions and practical exercises.

“The knowledge and skills acquired here will not only transform our approach to records management, but also have a profound impact on the efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance of our operations. Let us not underestimate the significance of this workshop. The strategies, best practices, and insights we gain here will equip us to overcome the challenges of disorganized records and unlock the full potential of our organization’s information management,” he said.

Ms. Mphunda covered various topics, including the significance of a records management classification system, how to develop a file index, and the functional requirements for an electronic records management system, among others. During the sessions, participants were divided into groups to discuss specific questions they were given. After their discussions, they presented their findings from their groups. The sessions were highly interactive, as the course coordinator used a variety of teaching methods.

After the workshop’s completion, participants received certificates, and the ceremony was led by Mr. Ndau. As the course coordinator, Mrs. Mphunda expressed her appreciation to all the attendees, expressing her belief in their ability to make a significant impact wherever they go. “Let’s make sure we learn and improve every day,” she said. “We have also established a strong network that will support us moving forward.”

The class representative, a participant from MUBAS, Mr Daniel Mwakopola, expressed gratitude and appreciation to the UNIMA Library Department for organizing an exceptional workshop, describing it as one of a kind. He noted that as they return to their respective offices, they will make a significant impact. He thanked UNIMA for the knowledge they gained during the workshop, which will enhance their work in their respective organizations.