Delhi University confers honorary degree on Malawian President Mutharika

NEW DELHI - Malawian President Bingu Wa Mutharika was conferred an honorary degree by Delhi University here on Thursday for his stupendous works in the African Union.

The prestigious Delhi University awarded its illustrious former student with an honorary degree in literature.

President Mutharika graduated in economics from the prestigious Sri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) in 1961, and later pursued his Masters degree from the Delhi School of Economics.

Addressing the guests, Mutharika reminisced on his experiences as a student of the varsity, and expressed his joy at receiving the award from his alma mater.

“Some 47 years ago, I graduated from this University with a Master’s degree in Economics, second division. Little did I know that one day I would return to this very place as the head of state of my country, and the chairman of the African Union,” said Mutharika.

Mutharika, who won the Malawian Presidential elections in 2004, returned to power for the second time in 2009.

Though critics accuse Mutharika of rigging his way into office, he is credited with helping to improve Malawi’s economy.

Since he took over, the country has experienced an average economic growth of seven percent.

“I worked extremely hard to turn Malawi from poverty to prosperity. From food deficit, hunger, malnutrition to food abundance and security. From despair and hopelessness to a vibrant nation of new hopes and new opportunities,” said Mutharika.

Mutharika arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday on a six-day State visit to strengthen economic ties between the two nations.

During the visit, Mutharika discussed a wide range of subjects of bilateral interest covering economic cooperation, trade and investment, infrastructure and human interests with the Indian representatives.

“I see Africa as a place where Asian people will be able to get jobs and stay on the continent. I wish to suggest that a strong Africa is a better trading partner for India than any other nation. Africa needs your support,” he said.

India and Malawi earlier on Wednesday signed four bilateral agreements to deepen cooperation in the fields of health, rural development and mineral resources. (ANI)