Prof. Judith Achoka handing over sanitary towels to Lirhanda Girls students.
The donation initiative at Lirhanda Girls was spearheaded by Rev. Prof. Judith Achoka and Dr. Annette Okoth, while Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda and Dr. Emily Indakwa led those at Bishop Sulumeti Girls, Shieywe Secondary School, and Makunga Secondary School.
Prof. Achoka advised the girls to work smart, stay focused, maintain a high level of discipline, and be self-driven in order to achieve their goals. “This is the time for you to examine your strengths and weaknesses but do it from a position of self-love and acceptance,” she encouraged.
From left; Dr. Annette Okoth, Prof. Judith Achoka, Deputy Principal, and Senior Principal Lirhanda Girls High School.
“We have realized that the science field is a major challenge to many students. AWSE is taking this initiative to empower and ensure that girls stay in school even during their menstrual period. Let whatever we share with you today have an impact on your education,” noted Prof. Omukunda.
Echoing Prof. Omukunda, Dr. Emily Indakwa, a lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences, reiterated that a change of attitude is key to improved performance in Science fields. She reminded the students to utilize the ability of their teachers as well as the available resources for better performance. “You have all that it takes to succeed. I urge you to identify your areas of interest and perfect them,” she added.
Dr. Emily Indakwa giving the sanitary pads to Makunga Secondary students.
Additionally, Dr. Annette Okoth stated that the objective of AWSE is to ensure girls remain in school despite their ‘menses’ and get motivated to perform well in the sciences. “AWSE needs to be felt. We are here to bring change into your lives both socially and academically,” said Dr. Okoth.
Speaking during the outreach at Makunga Secondary School, the expert of Physics- Condensed Matter, Dr. Rapando Wakhu encouraged the students to put more effort in Science and Mathematics since they are the key determinants to course selection and placement in Higher Education.
“Seventy-five percent (75%) of the courses at the University require good performance in Science and Mathematics, I urge you to work hard for improved performances. We are lacking gender parity in Sciences, I want to see more girls pursuing Physics and Chemistry,” said Dr. Rapando.
Dr. Rapando addressing Makunga Secondary School Students during the campaign
The AWSE team was also accompanied by MMUST students pursuing different programs including Mr. Isaac Wafula, Ms. Loice Mmbone, and Mr. Ooko Yustine.
Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda addressing the Makunga Secondary students.
This campaign is part of AWSE’s outreach program that is aimed at keeping female students in school during their menstrual periods and improving the number of female students pursuing science-oriented courses in Secondary schools and Universities.
By Linet Owuor and Charity Idaya
Photos by Charity Idaya
