MMUST Conducts Workshop to Sensitize Staff on Mental Health, in Line with SDG Number 3!

Participants at the sensitization workshop.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has set in motion a series of workshops to sensitize staff on mental health, in line with SDG number 3. The workshop which was held on 7^th June, 2023 was aimed at raising awareness about mental health and the reducing stigma associated with mental illness. It was steered by the Coordinator, AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit, Prof. Gladys Mengich.  

The Deputy Vice Chancellor, Planning, Research and Innovation, Prof. Charles Mutai officially opened the workshop. Speaking at the workshop he said that mental health is an important area for the community, adding that in many families we have a lot of pressure that results in stress and mental disorder.

“Trauma affects one’s mental health. Terminal diseases also escalate our stress levels, thereby affecting our mental health. Mental disorders are also caused by genetics due to hormonal imbalance. As a University we are committed to providing a conducive environment for staff and students.  Let us set aside time to relax,” he said.

Deputy Vice Chancellor (PR&I) Prof. Charles Mutai speaking at the workshop.

Prof. Gladys Mengich gave an overview of the work of the ACGDMU saying that there are new ways to manage stress. Concurring with Prof. Mengich, the Registrar PRI, Prof. Alice Ndiema advised participants to interact and speak more in order to release stress.

Ms. Roselyn Abwalaba who represented Chairperson, Aids Control Unit, Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda said that there was a team in place to check the non- communicable diseases such as; Hypertension and Diabetes. “Our Mental health is very important. There are a lot of cases of depression. When employees are stressed performance goes down”, said Ms. Abwalaba. She added that the unit will ensure that the mental health of employees is taken care of.

Commenting on the importance of communication to good mental health, the Director, Corporate Communications and Marketing, Dr. Lydia Anyonje pointed out that mental health is critical to all human beings. “How we respond to other people communicates and determines our stress levels. Communicate to other people the way you would like to be communicated to. In order to thrive mentally mind the way we should smile more and communicate better with others,” She stated.

Mr. Felix Ambuche from the MMUST clinic gave an overview on mental health as well as the Comorbities associated with stress. “Depression is one of the leading causes of disability and suicide is the 4^th leading cause of death among 15-29 year olds. Many mental health conditions can be effectively treated at relatively low cost,” he said. He also discussed mental health continuum, common types of mental health and mental health promotion and protection.

Deputy Vice Chancellor addressing the participants during the event.

Ms. Rose Abwalaba tackled stress and stress management at work. “Over 87% of adults globally suffer stress and stress related symptoms and 63% of workers are ready to quit their jobs because of work related stress. Stress is not an illness but it can cause serious illness if it isn’t addressed,” she said. She later spoke about types of stress, symptoms of stress, causes of stress, risks associated with stress and how to avoid them.

Clearly, mental health is as important as physical health and must be nurtured. Positive mental health at work helps staff to flourish in their roles, manage stress and boosts resilience. Good health and well-being is critical to the mental health and emotional stability of staff, This sensitization by MMUST is a commendable method of ensuring that this happens.

By; Melody Mutua and Sylvia Shibutuli 

Photos by; Shiundu Masafu

School of Public Health, Biomedical Sciences and Technology, MMUST, Reviews Bsc. Public Health Curriculum In Alignment With Public Health Officers and Technician Council (PHOTC)

SPHBS&T staff and PHOTC Council during the workshop.

The School of Public Health Biomedical Sciences and Technology has reviewed its BSc. Public Health curriculum to align it with the requirements of Public Health Officers and Technician Council (PHOTC). This was done in a workshop held on 5^{th ,}6^th and 7^th  June 2023 at Golf hotel-Kakamega.  This workshop was organised by the Department of Public Health with the School’s Dean, Prof. Edwin Wamukoya on the forefront.

Registrar academics Prof. Thomas Sakwa, who represented the Vice chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo and the Deputy Vice chancellor, Prof. Hussein Golicha (Academic Affairs), assured the Council that the University will be able to administer and assess council exams.  

“As a University we are grateful that the council agreed to come and review the curriculum. Let us work together to ensure our students receive the best knowledge that is suitable for the modern job market, “he said.

The SPHBS&T Dean, Prof. Edwin Wamukoya, appreciated the Council, saying that it was the first meeting they have had in the School of Public Health related to curriculum design and implementation. “There is a need to review and implement some programmes that will be of great help to the students taking the Public Health course. This will enable them to have equal opportunities with others in various fields,” he stated.

He urged the council to consider some of the demands presented by the School so that its students can be accredited after graduating. Dean informed the workshop members that CBC had necessitated a change in the admission & grading system to align with the PHOTC guidelines.

Speaking at the workshop, SPHBS&T Chairperson, Dr. Maximilla Wanzala, informed the workshop that upgrading had already been approved by the Senate. However, challenges still exist between the University and PHOTC. She urged the Council to consider their grievances and work together to ensure that students taking BSc. Public Health have a brighter future.

Dr. William Kitagwa (Far left), Dr. Maximilla Wanzala (centre), Dr. Ronald Wanyama (centre), and Mr. Edwin Ambasu (Right) from CDH-Kakamega paying attention to the presentation.

PHOTC CEO, Mr. Aggrey Oriema pointed out that technical heads and mentors should have PhD qualification. He applauded the University for having a good infrastructural support system such as the highly equipped Engineering & Biotech lab that can support some of the Public Health units.  “The Training Needs Assessment Approaches (TNA) has put a lot of emphasis on CBC and is toying with the idea of assessment to be reviewed to 50/50 (Lecture/Practical),” he said.

The CEO of PHOTC, Mr. Aggrey Oriema and Mr. Thomas Maera (centre) following a presentation.

He advised that there were special requirements for regulated programs to have Technical heads, adding that when PHOTC was assessing, the technical head of the department had some weight.   PHOTC was available to support the University in organizing the Public Health department.

Further, Mr. Oriema said that CUE and PHOTC perform different functions where CUE regulates academic programs while PHOTC regulates the profession.  On his part, Dr. Kitagwa applauded MMUST for being a serious institution.  He attributed this to the fact that MMUST has set up a serious skills lab Procurement with some of the equipment, and has already done final renovation which is at an advanced stage. He said that the University has already purchased a standardized moisture tester. He was amazed that the institution has already employed 3 staff as supplementary lecturers.

Present at the workshop were: Ms. Tabitha Kwasira, Mr. Nicholas Makotsi, Mr. Ronald Wamalwa from MMUST; Mr. Thomas Maera from PHOTC as well as Mr. Anton. M. Ngaira and Mr. Edwin Ambasu from (CDH)-Kakamega.

With such partnerships, MMUST is set to produce graduates who are acceptable and suit the job market. This review is indeed a step in the right direction.

By; Ivy Alivitsa and Milicent Masitsa

Photos by; Shiundu Masafu

MMUST Promotes the Greening Initiative as They Take Part in Tree Planting Exercise at the Kakamega Tropical Rainforest

MMUST - TVET Institute Set to Become One of Its Kind in the Region, Deliberations at a Recent Workshop Reveal

MMUST-TVET Institute workshop participants.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology- TVET Institute is set to become one of its kind in the region if deliberations at a recent workshop are anything to go by. This was revealed during a three-day workshop organized by the Principal, MMUST-TVET Institute, Prof. Basil Ong’or held from 5^th to 7^th June, 2023 at the Golf Hotel- Kakamega.

The institute’s board members spearheaded the formulation of strategic and business plans to aid its advancement towards gaining autonomy. These key tools will enable the institute to establish realistic objectives, define its direction and track progress towards its goals. The board members laid out the needs and guidelines that will address the present and anticipated challenges affecting the institute. 

The event was graced by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria Thuo who noted that the institute has marked considerable progress and urged the board members to keep up the good job.

“Strategic roadmap is essential in creating a common framework that will support the establishment of sustainable TVET policies and programs. This will improve the quality of training we offer thus providing an opportunity for evolutionary and innovative solutions for the socio-economic development of the society,” stated Prof. Thuo.

A section of the Board members following a presentation during the workshop.

In his remarks, Prof. Ong’or pointed out that the board is coming up with organizational structures and strategies designed to make the institute a full-fledged TVET institution. He further stated that the institute has a strong curriculum validated by the industry to ensure a high degree of credibility for the programs offered.

“This workshop seeks to provide a projection to chat the best doable actions for the institute. These tools will help in ensuring that all the risks in operation, management, and monitoring will be taken into account. MMUST-TVET Institute has the capacity to provide cutting-edge training that responds to industry demands,” said Prof. Ong’or. 

The Principal, MMUST-TVET Institute, Prof. Basil Ong’or making remarks at the workshop.

Speaking during the workshop, the Chairperson of the Institute’s board, Mr. James Wakungwi Sakwa noted that they are keen to see to it that the institute to becomes a premier TVETA institution. He thanked the University Management for the continued support in ensuring that the institute rises to its independence. 

“We have deliberated on critical variables to boost the visibility of the institute to attract many prospective learners and ensure it becomes a key Income Generating Unit for the University. TVET is directly linked to the labor market and hence plays a key role in providing requisite knowledge and skills,” reiterated Mr. Sakwa.

The Chairperson, of the MMUST-TVET Institute board, Mr. James Sakwa keenly following a presentation at the workshop.

Similarly, one of the facilitators, Mr. James Muriithi who is the University Marketing Officer, presented extensively on the need to have a marketing plan for the TVET Institute. He noted that having a marketing plan will enhance public acceptance and enable effective reach out to the target audience.

“Public visibility without an overall purpose is wasted, I urge you to have a marketing plan to help you identify and reach your target market. Marketing components such as Advocacy, Advertising, Promotion, and Publicity need to be related to a central plan. This requires market research to understand the needs and problems of the community which our services provide an answer to,” he stated.

The University Marketing Officer- Mr. James Muriithi making a presentation at the workshop.

At the end of the training, the participants will have a clear roadmap and development plan which will be used as a basis for their future direction.

The members of the board present included the Deputy- (Principal TVET Institute)- Dr. Samuel Waweru,  the Dean- School (Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance)- Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa, Director (Research and Postgraduate Support)- Prof. Peter Bukhala, Registrar (Academic Affairs)- Prof. Thomas Sakwa, Prof. Francis Muyekho, and Prof. Lt. Col. (Rtd) John Okoth. 

Additionally,  the workshop brought together various experts including; the Director, of Curriculum Review and Development- Prof. Judah Ndiku and Dr. Dishon Wanjere who tackled the Strategic Plan;  CPA Jared Rading (Business Plan) and  the Manager, MMUST-Enterprises-CPA (Marketing Plan).   The other participants were; Mr. Fred Koyaya, Ms. Mable Wambani, and Ms. Anne Okang’a.

Creating a vibrant and relevant technical training institute requires a high level of industry involvement in the curriculum design, instructional delivery, and overview process. MMUST-TVET Institute programs have been developed with industry’s input and our curriculum is industry driven to create enterprises that compete worldwide. This resonates with the expectations of a productive and sustainable society.   

By Linet Owuor

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

MMUST Participates in Tree Planting Exercise at the Kakamega Tropical Rainforest in an Effort to Combat the Effects of Climate Change

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo share a moment with the CS for Health, Dr. Susan Nakhumicha.

On 2^nd June, 2023, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology participated in a tree planting exercise at the Kakamega Tropical Rainforest in an effort to combat the adverse effects of climate change in the country. The exercise, organized by the Kakamega Forest Heritage Foundation aimed at supporting the national government’s initiative of planting 30 billion trees by 2032, which will in turn contribute towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, stopping and reversing deforestation as well as restoring large hectares of degraded landscapes. The event, which was attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo and the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Planning Research and Innovation, Prof. Charles Mutai, was graced by the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Susan Nakhumicha.

Dr. Nakhumicha, who also represented the Prime Cabinet secretary, Hon. Musalia Mudavadi at the event, stated that environmental issues have significant implications for human well-being, including health. She reported that the Ministry of Health has been actively promoting a shift from curative to promotive and preventive healthcare. To play a role in this, she encouraged the people to grow trees and take care of the environment noting that it will not only help in achieving this goal, but also contribute towards creating a healthier environment that will support the well-being of the people.

Additionally, Dr. Nakhumicha urged the participants including the local residents not to be swayed by misinformation regarding the proposed finance bill 2023 without thoroughly reading it first. She highlighted issues featured in the bill relating to health such as tax exemptions for manufacturers of pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals and vaccines saying that the proposals made will see a reduction of cost of vaccines and pharmaceutical products as well as their improved accessibility.

 The CS for Health, Dr. Susan Nakhumicha addressing participants during the event.

Notably, the CS had the opportunity to read the Prime Cabinet Secretary’s speech which stressed on the government’s determination to greening the country and reforestation of forests including the Kakamega tropical Forest.

“Greening Kenya aims at mitigating climate change effects. As of today, our tree cover stands at 12.13% out of the targeted 30% by 2032 while the forest cover is now at 10%, half of the 20% target by 2030,” read the speech. He acknowledged the efforts of the community in tree cover planting and forest cover afforestation, which he said, are extremely desirable and highly appreciated. 

Speaking during the event, Prof. Shibairo noted that this is the fourth year into the University’s and the Kakamega Forest Heritage Foundation’s collaboration. He assured the foundation and participants of the University’s undying commitment towards the noble cause of not only planting and growing trees but also educating the public on the relevance of the same.

Additionally, the renowned professor took the opportunity to explain to the public the vital role trees play in mitigating climate change. “When we plant trees, they support the environment by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and converting it into oxygen while storing the carbon. This process helps to reduce the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere, thereby mitigating the greenhouse effects and climate change,” explained Prof. Shibairo. He urged the people to grow trees, saying that it is one of the most important things we can do to contribute to the health of the planet. 

Prof. Solomon Shibairo making a presentation after the tree planting exercise.

Prof. Mutai further echoed the Vice Chancellor’s statement, assuring the attendees and the Kakamega Forest Heritage Foundation of the University’s support.

The Kakamega Forest Heritage Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Mr. George Murilla pointed out that the Kakamega Tropical Rainforest has the uniqueness of being the last and only surviving remnant of the great and ancient Guineo-Congolian Tropical Rainforest. Renowned for its unique character and high biodiversity among Kenyan forests, the environmentalist stressed that it is crucial that we look after it and conserve it.

“MMUST has been a great partner with us not only in tree planting but also in the marathon. I urge you to continue. As of today, we shall have planted approximately 76 hectares of the 100 hectares apportioned to the Kakamega Forest Heritage Foundation by the ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry,” said Mr. Murilla.

A section of the participants planting trees during the tree planting exercise.

The judiciary was represented by Hon. Justice Dalmas Omondi Ogungo, Judge of Environment and Land Court and Presiding Judge Kakamega. Justice Ogungo was accompanied by Hon. Retired, Hon. Lady Justice Farah Amin and Hon. Lady Justice Hellen Omondi. “As the judiciary, we are proud to participate in such initiatives. Beyond activities of planting trees, we also provide an avenue for resolution of disputes on issues of land and environment. We encourage the people to bring actions to court for we are ready and willing to resolve them,” he said  

It is worth noting that different government ministries and agencies were represented at the event. These included the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection; Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development; the East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands and Regional Development; Ministry of education - Higher Education and Research; Kenya Forest Service, and the Kenya Defence Forces among others. The Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary was represented by a thirteen-member delegation led by the Chief of Staff, Mr. Joseph Busieda.

Present also was the Kakamega Woman Representative, Ms. Elsie Muhanda, the area MCA, Mr. Dan Muchiha Mukofu. Other institutions such as the World Rally Championship, St. Anne’s School Kiminini, Fly 748 Air Services, Cooperative Bank and the Fourth Estate were also present.

Mr. Martin Mamati introducing representatives from the Kenya Forest Service during the event.

The trees were donated by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), Ministry of devolution, Bukura Agricultural College, Kenya Wildlife Service, Institute of Certified Public Accountants (ICPAK) and the Ministry of Water.

Research indicates that climate change is the defining issue of our time and we are at a defining moment. The shifting weather patterns that threaten food production to rising sea levels that increase the risks of catastrophic flooding confirms the impacts of climate change are global in scope and precedented in scale. We are advised that without drastic actions today, adapting to the impacts of these changes or events will be more difficult and costly. We have the opportunity, time, resources and goodwill to reverse the devastating situation. Let us plant and grow more trees for our future. 

By: Caren Nekesa

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology Marks First Ever Gender Awareness Day

Participants pose for a group photo after the event.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology on 29^th May, 2023, marked its first ever gender awareness day. The event themed ‘The Gender Agenda’, was graced by the Vice chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo who was accompanied by the Deputy Vice Chancellors Academic and Student Affairs as well as Planning, Research and Innovation, Prof. Hussein Golicha and Prof. Charles Mutai respectively. The memorable event was organized by the AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit, under the leadership of the Coordinator, Prof. Gladys Mengich and attended by the University’s teaching and non-teaching staff as well as students.

Speaking during the official launch of the event, Prof. Shibairo noted that the University believes in giving equal opportunity to all genders. He shared his journey on the same when he assumed office in the year 2020, quoting among many other accomplishments, having successfully promoted eight females to Associate Professors. Prof. Shibairo however, stated that he was disappointed for having promoted none to full professorship. He encouraged women to step up and take on leadership positions, saying that it is an important aspect of promoting gender equality and achieving a more balanced representation in various fields.

“We do not just promote women because we want to achieve the gender threshold. They must fulfill the requirements and that is what we are working on. I hope that soon, we will be promoting more women to professorship,” said Prof. Shibairo. 

 The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo addressing the participants during the event.

In his address, Prof. Charles Mutai pointed out that men and women complement each other. He shared that women play a central role in the societies, citing that nearly 90% of the resilience that we see are steered by women. Prof. Mutai urged the Gender Mainstreaming Unit team to continue sensitizing people on gender, stressing that it is very important.  “We all have similar IQs and we perform equally. However, provision of a conducive environment can enable everyone to perform well,” he stated. He emphasized on the fact that the University gives equal opportunities in employment, representations in the unions, students leadership and many others.  

The DVC ASA, Prof. Hussein Golicha made a case on the biblical, traditional and modern approach to gender. He noted that many areas of society are still dominated by men including politics, business, and leadership positions, as women are hindered by barriers such as discrimination that limits their representation. Further, Prof. Golicha acknowledged that women are increasingly breaking barriers and achieving success in various domains as efforts to promote gender equality and address gender disparities continue to gain momentum globally. He also discussed the crucial role of women in the societies, and challenged the participants to become aware of the presence of the other gender, without which the other cannot exist. 

The DVC ASA, Prof. Hussein Golicha making a point.

Expressing her delight, the Coordinator AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit, Prof. Gladys Mengich stated that creating awareness on gender is crucial for promoting equality, addressing discrimination and breaking stereotypes as well as empowering individuals. This, she said, plays a vital role in fostering a more inclusive, just, and equitable society for all genders.

Additionally, she encouraged the MMUST community to join hands and actively engage in conversations that will create and enhance a non-discriminatory environment for equal opportunities and empowerment where every stakeholder will enjoy equal rights.

The Chairperson Gender Mainstreaming Committee, Prof. John O. Shiundu, appreciated the participants for making time to participate in the event.  He shared that he strongly believes in gender equality and mainstreaming and as a result, he has had the privilege to serve under the gender movement in the University for over twenty years.

“As old as humanity itself, dating from the time of creation, issues of gender have been with us. We continue to witness an evolution that is steered by the development and implementation of policies and legislation to promote gender equality. Gender mainstreaming, awareness campaigns and advocacy continue to highlight the importance of gender equality and women's empowerment. Today when I look at MMUST, I don’t see as many issues of gender as I did before. I am confident that we have achieved so much in gender mainstreaming and we shall continue to push for the same, for we are one,” he said. 

The Chairperson Gender Mainstreaming Committee, Prof. John O. Shiundu making his remarks during the event.

The Chief guest who is also the Regional Coordinator, National Gender and Equality Commission Mr. Davies Okeyo expressed his delight over joining the University in marking this special day.

“Today marks a great day for us as a commission and we truly celebrate you, as you launch your gender awareness day. We hope that this day shall become a key part of the University’s strategy of promoting diversity and inclusivity among students, staff as well as other key stakeholders such as the community,” said Mr. Okeyo.

He went further, reminding the participants that gender equality is a fundamental human right, a necessary foundation for a peaceful institution, country as well as a prosperous and sustainable world. He also noted that gender mainstreaming is an essential element of good governance, which ensures that the policies running in the institution respond to the various needs, concerns and interests of all stakeholders.

Further, Mr. Okeyo cited article 2 sub-sections 5 and 6 of the Kenya Constitution 2010, reminding the participants that the issue of gender is no longer a foreign thing but one fully embraced in the country. “As a nation, we are making progressive strides towards achieving gender equality using various policies at the national level, counties and even in institutions. We appreciate that the MMUST is on track for you have well detailed gender and GBV policies. Besides, you have always submitted reports on time as part of the performance contracting,” he added.   

From left; the Regional Coordinator, National Gender and Equality Commission Mr. Davies Okeyo; the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo; the Deputy Vice Chancellor Planning Research and Innovation, Prof. Charles Mutai; and the Chairperson Gender Mainstreaming Committee, Prof. John Oyula Shiundu

It is also worth noting that the University Unions, KUSU and KUDHEIHA were represented by their leaders Mr. Gregory Lidzanga and Mr. Victor Amasese respectively. The two also acknowledged that issues of gender have been affecting a good number of individuals at places of work. They encouraged the participants to voice these concerns for assistance.

Additionally, the two acknowledged that MMUST has made great milestones with regard to ensuring gender in its activities. The Union representatives asked the gender mainstreaming unit to involve them in their activities, in future.

“We are happy that gender is being observed here at the University. My plea is that you continue working with us as the worker’s representatives because in our terms of service as KUSU, we have dedicated clause 26 of our CBA on issues of gender. We support you,” said Mr. Lidzanga.

The students’ fraternity was represented by the Student Executive Council members in charge of Special Interests and Treasurer, Ms. Loice Achieng’ and Mr. Ekitela Ebenyo Moses.

Research shows that the gender agenda is driven by the principles of equality, human rights, and social justice, which aims to create a more equitable and inclusive society where all individuals can thrive regardless of their gender identity. Additionally, it is also indisputable that the gender agenda should involve collaborative efforts from governments, civil society organizations, activists, and individuals to address gender-based disparities and create positive change. As we join the international community in celebrating the International Women's and Men's Days, which are observed on March 8^th and November 19^th every year, respectively, we should continue to raise awareness about gender equality and promote the rights and well-being of both women and men.  

By Caren Ms. Caren Nekesa 

Photos by Shiundu Masafu 

There Are Gaps in the Implementation of Competency Based Curriculum Core Values, Findings by MMUST Researchers Reveal

MMUST Hosts Education for All Children Team to Discuss Sponsorship Program and Other Areas of Collaboration

MMUST-EFAC teams during the visit.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology on Wednesday, 24^th May, 2023, hosted a team from Education For All Children (EFAC) to discuss the latter’s sponsorship program at MMUST, as well as to explore other areas of collaboration. The team was received by the Dean of Students, Dr. Bernadette Abwao, along with the Marketing Officer, Mr. James Muriithi and the MMUSO treasurer, Mr. Moses Ekitela.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Abwao applauded EFAC for sponsoring MMUST students, saying that this initiative has greatly transformed their lives. “We hope that EFAC will continue supporting more of our students, and that this partnership will lead to a Memorandum of Understanding between both institutions,” said the Dean of Students.

“There are various sponsorship programs at MMUST, which include; Government sponsorship, the Constituency Development Fund, merit scholarship for Masters students, talent scholarship, the Rattansi Educational Trust Bursary, and of course the EFAC program,” stated Mr. Muriithi, adding that the University is dedicated to improving the students’ welfare and ensuring that they graduate on time. The MMUSO Treasurer reiterated that the University allows students to access various sponsorship programs in a bid to assist them in managing their accommodation expenses, fees, as well as their upkeep.

According to EFAC’s Program Manager, Mr. Benson Masero, the organization sponsors needy and bright students from Form one (1) through University, which is an 8-year scholarship programme. “EFAC is supporting over 900 students, and about 10 of them are in MMUST. I commend this University for being a good partner and we look forward to more collaborations,” he added. Mr. Masero was accompanied by EFAC’s Communications and Public Relations Officer, Mr. Eric Malavi.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has continued to enhance its students’ learning experience. Higher education funding remains a major challenge, and lack of financial means is one of the leading causes of University dropout, as well as untimely graduation. By providing access to sponsorship opportunities, MMUST has indeed proven that it is committed to ensuring that students pursue their studies to completion.

By Milicent Masitsa & Getrude Ajiambo

Photos by Shiundu Masafu