← Back to Blog

From Intern to ICT Officer: My Journey in Malawi's Tech Sector

My journey into the ICT sector began with a summer internship at CTech Systems Inc in 2022, where I was a Software Developer Intern for three months. That experience shaped my understanding of what it takes to build a career in technology in Malawi. This is my story, from intern to ICT Officer and Lecturer at Exploits University, with lessons for young professionals navigating the same path.

The Internship Experience at CTech Systems

When I joined CTech Systems as a software development intern, I had theoretical knowledge from my computer engineering coursework but limited practical experience. The internship exposed me to real-world software development practices: working with version control systems (Git), collaborating in a team environment, understanding client requirements, and delivering working software on deadlines. One of my key projects was developing a search engine prototype for indexing Malawi-specific online content, which gave me hands-on experience with web scraping, search algorithms, and data processing. The most valuable lesson was that practical problem-solving matters more than memorizing concepts. My mentors emphasized understanding the problem deeply before writing any code, a principle I still apply today.

Transitioning to ICT Officer and Lecturer

After graduating with my BSc in Computer Engineering from the University of Livingstonia in 2024, I joined Exploits University as an ICT Officer and Lecturer. This dual role was challenging but rewarding. As ICT Officer, I was responsible for the entire campus network infrastructure, IT support, and system administration. As Lecturer, I taught courses on computer studies, internet use, and cyberspace safety. Balancing these responsibilities taught me time management, prioritization, and the importance of continuous learning. I quickly realized that the skills from my internship—problem-solving, communication, and technical adaptability—were directly applicable to my new role.

Skills That Made the Difference

Reflecting on my journey, several skills proved crucial. Technical skills in networking (TCP/IP, router configuration, network security), web development (PHP, MySQL, HTML/CSS), and system administration (Windows/Linux servers) were foundational. But soft skills were equally important: communication to explain technical concepts to non-technical colleagues, problem-solving to diagnose and resolve issues quickly, time management to balance teaching and ICT duties, and adaptability to learn new technologies as needed. I also learned the value of documentation—creating network diagrams, user guides, and procedure manuals that saved countless hours of重复 work.

Advice for Young ICT Professionals in Malawi

For those starting their ICT career in Malawi, my advice is: seek internships or practical experience during your studies, even if unpaid—the experience is invaluable. Build a portfolio of projects you can show to employers, whether it's a simple website, a network setup, or a database application. Network with other professionals through LinkedIn, tech meetups, and professional associations. Never stop learning—technology evolves rapidly, and staying current is essential for career growth. Consider certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, or Security+ to complement your degree. And finally, be patient and persistent. Building a career in ICT takes time, but the opportunities in Malawi's growing tech sector are worth the effort.