Centre for Open and Distance Electronic Learning.

Expanding Access to Education: Centre for Open & Distance Electronic Learning

Higher education should be a right, not a privilege. However, Malawi’s traditional university system has struggled to meet demand, with only 0.03% of eligible school leavers enrolled in face-to-face programs as of 2008—far below the global benchmark of 35%. To bridge this gap, Mzuzu University embraced a more innovative, flexible, and cost-effective solution: Open and Distance Learning (ODL).

Established in July 2006, the Centre for Open & Distance Electronic Learning (CODEL) was created to expand access to quality higher education. By offering programs beyond the traditional classroom model, the Centre enables aspiring students—especially those unable to enroll in residential programs—to pursue university education without disrupting their work, family, or community commitments.

By embracing technology-driven education, Mzuzu University is reshaping the future of higher learning in Malawi. CODEL ensures that students from all walks of life—whether professionals, parents, or rural learners—can pursue their academic goals without disrupting their daily responsibilities.

Mzuzu University remains committed to bridging the education gap, empowering more Malawians with the knowledge and skills needed to drive national development.

our Mision

The mission of the Centre is to offer quality tertiary education, training, research and outreach; and professional development programmes to a wider population in Malawi, while at the same time responding to changing needs and emerging issues as ushered in by a rapidly changing society.

Our Vision

The vision of the Centre for Open and Distance Learning is to increase and broaden access to quality tertiary education in order to create an open, inclusive and informed society necessary for engaging with the numerous development challenges of Malawi.

Our goals

The Centre for Open and Distance Learning seeks to:

provide accessible, affordable and equitable education and training opportunities to as many people as possible

provide opportunity for education and training to all categories of people who could not enrol with conventional tertiary education institutions

provide an enabling environment for lifelong learning for the entire citizenry

provide education and training that is responsive to the changing world and emerging issues

carry out research and outreach activities that are aimed at improving the quality of life of the people

Our Satellite Centres

Discover the Heart of Mzuzu University: A Vibrant Campus for Learning, Innovation, and Community.

Lilongwe Centre

Area 25, Lilongwe

Lilongwe Centre

Area 25, Lilongwe

Lilongwe Satellite centre is situated in area 25 next to Teachers Training College . And is currently headed by Mr M. Mkosi.

Balaka Centre

Balaka Secondary School

Balaka Centre

Balaka Satellite centre is situated within Balaka Seconday School. Currently headed by Mr. Kitha

Karonga Centre

TTC College Campus

Karonga Centre

TTC College Campus

Karonga Satellite centre is situated within the Karonga Teachers Training College Campus. And is currently headed by Mr. Mtungambera.

Mulanje Centre

Mulanje Secondary School

Mulanje Centre

Mulanje Secondary School

Mulange Satellite Centre is located in Mulanje Secondary School. currently headed by Mr. D Chilonga

Service

Committed to Excellence and Service: Empowering the Community and Beyond.

Perfection

Driven by Perfection: Nurturing Exceptional Talents and Achievements.

Self Reliance

Building Self-Reliance, Unleashing Potential: Empowering Individuals to Shape Their Own Future.

Get In Touch

Lydia Kishindo

Directorate of ODL

kishindo.l@mzuni.ac.mw