MMUST staff discuss with students during the event.
Participants at the just concluded annual career fair held at the Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Bungoma campus, have been advised to invest adequately in their children’s education. The event was attended by parents, students and members of the community. The well-attended, one-day career fair, which took place on 31st March, 2023, was graced by the Director, Privately Sponsored Students Learning Centres and Campuses, Prof. Benedict Alala who was also representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Planning Research and Innovation, Prof. Charles Mutai. Bungoma campus was represented by its very own Director, Prof. William Toili who was in the company of the Deans from different faculties in the University.
The aim of the event was sensitize secondary school leavers and holders of Diplomas and Certificates on available opportunities as well as the need for them to further their studies. The organizers also utilized the opportunity to mentor form-four students on how to choose their careers, and to engage the community on the need to invest in their children’s education.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Alala noted that education is the equalizer in our societies as it helps to level the playing field as well as create more opportunities for individuals to succeed, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. He urged parents to invest in their children’s education, stating that it is almost the only safest way to secure their future, even as they strive to ensure their health, wellness and provisions.
“As a University of choice, we pride ourselves in offering some of the most unique and competitive programmes across the globe,” said Prof. Alala. He asked the form four students to work hard, stay focused and work on their subject combinations as they think about the careers they would want to pursue.
The Director, Privately Sponsored Students, Learning Centres and Campuses, Prof. Benedict Alala addressing the participants during the career fair.
Prof. William Toili emphasized on the significance of career fairs, noting that they offer students the opportunity to explore, connect and learn new things, including how to navigate social terrain when talking to professionals. He also spoke about the relevance of investing in children’s education, highlighting that it is essential for their intellectual and cognitive development.
“Education equips our children with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful and productive members of society. It also facilitates their development of critical thinking abilities, problem-solving, and decision-making skills that are essential for success in all aspects of life,” he stated.
Further, Prof. Toili informed the students that there is an opportunity for them to pursue higher education regardless of their grades and ended his address by quoting the famous Derek Bok “.”
Similarly, the University’s Marketing Officer, Mr. James Muriithi echoed Prof. Toili’s sentiments, confirming that MMUST has all-round and marketable programmes that accommodate all grades. He encouraged the students to consult the customer care and marketing team after they receive their results for a more personalized assessment of their strengths and guidance on course and career choice.
“As you plan to join MMUST, make use of our Bungoma campus facility and ensure that it becomes your next home from where you are,” he noted. Mr. Muriithi further engaged the participants on how they can finance their education while at MMUST, the available scholarship opportunities, sporting activities as well as mode of learning adopted in different programmes.
The University’s Marketing Officer, Mr. James Muriithi makes a presentation at the event.
Deans from respective schools had the opportunity to talk to the students. The Dean, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedical Sciences, Mr. John Arudo, encouraged students to perform well if they hoped to pursue careers in the health field. “The nursing field has a lot of opportunities while at the same time very competitive. Aim for stronger A’s because we go for the best performer,” he stated.
Reiterating Mr. Arudo’s sentiments, Dr. Henry Nyongesa representing the Dean School of Medicine extolled the benefits of studying medicine. “What makes MMUST unique as you study medicine is that we have small numbers that allow the student to be exposed adequately to the clinical setting. We also have an in-house mentorship programme where each student is attached to a lecturer, such that should you have any challenges within your study, you can always have someone to advise timely,” he said.
Dr. Eric Wangila, representing the Dean School of Education and Dr. Rose Onamu, representing the Dean School of Agriculture, Veterinary Science and Technology both highlighted the opportunities that exist in the market for graduates. They explained that Teaching is a career and a profession where one will never lack employment. As long as babies are born without knowledge, the world will always need teachers. On the other hand, there is more to agriculture than digging. Agriculture has very many opportunities in todays’ world and it is very marketable.
Ms. Betty Opilo, representing the Dean School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance discussed with the participants why the world needs professionals in this field. “Disaster management is a collaborative effort that involves individuals, organizations, and communities working together to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Studying disaster management can enable individuals to contribute to their communities by supporting resilience-building efforts as well as disaster response and recovery operations,” said Ms. Opilo.
A section of the students making consultations on career choice.
Education is crucial for the development of a well-informed and knowledgeable population, which is necessary for a functioning democracy. Educated individuals are also more likely to be engaged in their communities and to participate in social, structural and civic activities that steers development. On a more personal level, investing in education can lead to personal growth and development, career advancement, economic benefits, social benefits, and personal fulfillment - an investment in oneself that can pay off in many ways over the course of a lifetime. It is commendable that MMUST has stood out in its advocacy missions for education to all.
By Caren Nekesa and Sheila Ivayo
