MCA Establishes Research Ethics Committee to Strengthen Research Governance and Integrity

In a bid to strengthen research governance and integrity, the Malawi College of Accountancy (MCA) has established a Research Ethics Committee (MCA-REC). Members of the committee recently completed an induction session conducted by the National Commission for Science and Technology (NCST) in Dedza from 8th to 9th October 2025.

The training, facilitated by Esau Chisale, NCST Research Manager, covered key areas such as research ethics principles, informed consent, confidentiality, risk assessment, and compliance with ethical standards.

In his remarks, the Director for MCA Blantyre Campus, Dr. George Kaudza-Masina, hailed NCST for completing the long process that began in 2024. He expressed optimism that the Commission would continue to support MCA by involving the College in national research activities, including conferences and research grants.

Commenting on the same, MCA Head of Research, Elisa Ebiyamu, described the establishment of the committee as a major milestone towards promoting credible and responsible research among both staff and students.

“The creation of MCA-REC reflects our strong commitment to uphold ethical research practices and ensure that all studies involving human participants meet national and international standards,” said Ebiyamu.

The MCA-REC will be responsible for reviewing research proposals involving human participants, ensuring compliance with ethical and legal requirements, promoting awareness of research ethics, and monitoring ongoing studies. Committee members pledged to uphold high ethical standards and foster a culture of integrity and accountability in all research activities.

With the committee now in place, MCA joins other higher education institutions in Malawi recognized by the NCST for having formal research ethics oversight mechanisms. The College plans to operationalize the committee immediately, starting with the review of upcoming postgraduate and faculty research proposals, including research consultancy projects.

Dr. Said Jackson was elected Chairperson of the MCA-REC. ?>