Fourth-Year UNIMA Economics Student Found Dead in Suspected Su!cide

The University of Malawi (UNIMA) community is in shock and mourning following the death of a promising fourth-year student, Abel Mkandawire, who authorities have confirmed died by suicide.

Abel, a student in the Bachelor of Economics programme, was discovered dead in his rented accommodation on Monday. Police and university officials visited the scene and have since launched a full investigation into the tragic incident, although no suicide note was found.

Friends and classmates have expressed deep sadness, describing Abel as a calm, intelligent, and dedicated young man. His academic potential was recently highlighted when he was named one of the winners of the Department of Economics’ prestigious essay competition, a recognition that underscored his talent and future promise to the nation.

His passing has created a ripple of grief across the campus, with many students finding it difficult to reconcile the tragedy with the image of their cheerful, hardworking friend.

The student’s heartbroken father, Cassius Mkandawire, shared his grief on Facebook, writing:

“Abel my son, God gave, and it has pleased him to take you like that, we knew you went to Chancol, being forth year, ecos, you were to be valuable to this nation, as it has pleased the Lord, kwa iye kukhale matamando”,

Following the tragedy, student leaders and staff have urgently emphasized the availability of mental health support services, strongly urging learners to seek help whenever they feel overwhelmed or distressed.