First students in Malawi graduate with dental degree
A Scottish Government-backed initiative to improve oral health in Malawi has marked a major milestone with the graduation of the country’s first home-grown dentists.
Ten students from Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) have become the first in Malawi’s history to qualify with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from within their own country, a vital step in improving access to oral healthcare for millions.
Historically, Malawi has one of the lowest dentist-to-population ratios in the world. In 2016, Malawi had about 40 dentists – all overseas trained – for a population of around 18 million people. Now, in addition to the graduates, there are currently 137 dental students studying for their BDS degree.
Through the MalDent project – initiated by Professor Jeremy Bagg OBE, of the University of Glasgow, and Dr Mwapatsa Mipando, then Principal of the University of Malawi College of Medicine – Malawi established the first national dental degree programme and developed its first national oral health policy.
The project has been supported by the Scottish Government since 2018. Marking Africa Day 2025 last month, Angus Robertson, External Affairs Secretary, said: “The MalDent project is an example of how our international development work is supporting a healthier and fairer future for people in Malawi, delivering long-term impact that will transform lives for years to come.”
Professor Wakisa Mulwafu, Executive Dean of the School of Medicine and Oral Health at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), said: “The MalDent Project has helped us to create a new workforce to address the oral health of people in Malawi.
“These graduates will play a vital role in delivering clinical care, shaping policy, supporting education, and leading improvements in health systems for years to come.”
Professor Bagg OBE (pictured with two of the graduates, Esther Khomba and Chifundo Banda) said: “This marks a milestone for oral health in Malawi. I’m proud of the graduates and deeply grateful to the
Scottish Government. It’s proof that locally led solutions, backed by sustained support, can drive lasting change.”
The MalDent project is supported by the University of Glasgow, the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, NHS Lothian, NHS Education for Scotland, Glasgow School of Art, Dentaid, Smileawi, Bridge2Aid, AMECA, Medical Aid International, The Borrow Foundation, Henry Schein Dental and the Dental Association of Malawi.
1 Comment
This graduation marks the beginning of a positive change in oral and dental health landscape in Malawi, forever. Thanks to the Scottish Government, the University of Glasgow Dental School and many partners. Many thanks to this pioneering group of Dental Surgeons. These are they who took the first step into the unknown to make it known. These are they who succeeded not because of… but inspite of…! Well done to each one of the graduates. Well done to their lecturers and many friends on the ground! May the Lord bless you and keep you!