THE Vice-President of Malawi has "graduated" from the University of Bolton.

Leading economist Saulos Chilima has achieved a PhD in Knowledge Management with the university .

The achievement prompted the President of Malawi Peter Mutharika to post a message of congratulations on Dr Chilima's Facebook page, stating: "We are proud of you".

Dr Chilima, was at the university this month and is due to graduate at the Malawi Institute of Management (MIM) Degree Congregation Ceremonies in October.

The University of Bolton has had a partnership with MIM in Lilongwe, Malawi, since 2007, offering a range of taught Masters programmes delivered between the university and local tutors.

MIM’s Doctoral Programme, led by Professor Danny Morton, began in 2011.

Dr Chilima is one of the first four PhD students to complete his studies.

Dr Julian Coleman of the University of Bolton’s Flying Faculty, said: "The research that colleagues are undertaking as part of the doctoral programme is impacting at both a local and international level, and is also underpinning our taught provision.

"It’s a huge testament to the hard work of colleagues such as Dr Chilima, as well as University and MIM staff alike."