A video clip of a Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences student (MUBAS), Ashley Black posing a question to the Minister of Trade and Industry, Engineer Vitumbiko Mumba during a public lecture has sparked widespread reactions on social media.
While some users ridiculed the young man for his perceived lack of eloquence, the incident has also drawn attention to the pressures faced by students in high-stakes public settings.
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The backlash has been swift and at times, brutal memes, edited clips and harsh commentary have made rounds on various platforms, mocking the student’s delivery rather than engaging with the content of his question. But amid the noise, a surprising and heartfelt response has emerged from the very person he addressed.
In a statement shared on social media, the Minister acknowledged the viral clip and commended the student for his courage.
“I salute this boy for gathering courage and asking me the question. He may not be a good public speaker but I think he needs love, encouragement, and support,” Mumba wrote.
Rejecting the tide of mockery, the Minister offered to host the student for dinner at his residence to learn more about his background and aspirations.
“I don’t want the young man to look back at the public lecture as his point of departure from his dreams. If he accepts, let him reach out to my PA, Edgar Mkanda, and I will do my part to support him.”
The Minister’s gesture has been widely praised, with many calling it a powerful example of leadership rooted in empathy. It serves as a reminder of the importance of uplifting the youth rather than tearing them down.
“This is what true mentorship looks like. We all stumble, especially when we’re young and nervous, but support like this can change a life,” commented one user on Facebook.
As the story unfolds, attention now turns to whether the student will accept the Minister’s invitation. But one thing is clear; the incident has become more than just a viral moment, it has sparked a national conversation on the need for compassion, support, and dignity for young people navigating their paths in the public eye.
