The partnership between the German Society of Tropical Paediatrics and International Child Health and the University of Malawi was founded with the aim of improving paediatric training and care in Malawi. Problem: Malawi has one of the highest rates of child and maternal mortality in East Africa. The main reason for this problem is the lack of medical specialists in this area. Main activities: The German partners engage in dialogue with the teaching staff at the University of Malawi and together they produce a new curriculum for the training of medical specialists. The new curriculum is to close gaps in the existing training and be systematically adapted to suit conditions on the ground. All students will undertake intensive courses to expand their medical knowledge. The range of specialist literature available at the University of Malawi is also to be expanded. Students gain practical experience in local health facilities and are mentored by the German partners. Short-term results: The number of qualified paediatricians in Malawi is to be increased. Long-term results: Improved medical care is to increase the chances of survival of children in Malawi.