MMUST Set to Partner With Kenyan Nurse Consultants in Offering IELTS on Paper (IOP) and on Computer (IOC) Exams

MMUST together with KenyanNurse Consultants Ltd teams during the visit.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology is set to partner with the KenyanNurse Consultants Ltd in offering International English Language Testing System (IELTS) on Paper (IOP) and Computer (IOC) exams. This was revealed during the visit by a delegation from KenyanNurse Consultants Ltd led by the CEO- Mr. Caleb Wafula who paid a courtesy call to the office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai.

The visit which took place today, 12^th May 2023, is geared towards enabling MMUST’s students pursuing nursing to acquire training skills through a webinar platform where their proficiency in various aspects of listening, reading, writing, and speaking in English will be tested. It is a requirement for any nurse aspiring to work abroad, especially in English-speaking countries.

Officers from the KenyanNurse Consultants Ltd.

The consultancy offers information pertaining to nursing jobs in English-speaking countries including; the UK, USA, Canada, and Ireland. The partnership comes with more benefits including; wooing more prospective nursing students across and beyond the nation as well as getting accreditation by British Council as an IELTS exam centre.

Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Mutai applauded the Dean, the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedical Sciences (SONMAPS) for a tremendous job in training holistic nurses. Equally, the Dean SONMAPS - John Mr. Arudo noted that the School is determined to have IELTS exams to widen the chances of job opportunities for their students.

KenyanNurse Consultants Ltd led by the CEO- Mr. Caleb Wafula (speaking) and Dean SONMAPS - John Mr. Arudo during the meeting.

Mr. Wafula revealed that the institution is having the biggest collaboration with the British Council where they share jobs with clients, and are actively building in recruitment. He added that some of the requirements needed are; 50 tables, a separate room for speaking, and a writing room. The students will be required to pay Ksh. 29, 000 for exams.

In attendance were; the Director ICT- Mr. Geoffrey Kones, Manager (MMUST Enterprises)- CPA Michael Wanjala, and Central Services- Mr. Allan Anguba from MMUST; Mr. Allan Seurey, Ms. Caren Koech, and Ms. Brenda Imali from the KenyanNurse Consultants Limited.

By Ivy Alivitsa

Photos by Linet Owuor

MMUST in Collaboration With St. John Ambulance Conducts Volunteer Capacity Building Training for Effective Management of Emergencies

DVC PRI- Prof. Charles Mutai (center), Chancellor- (St. John Ambulance), Dr. Robert Mutula (his left), the Patron (St. John Ambulance) - MMUST Chapter, Prof. Stanley Omuterema (his right) and volunteers.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology in collaboration with a delegation from St. John Ambulance has today 11^th May 2023, conducted a capacity-building training for volunteers from the Western Region. The aim of the training was to equip the volunteers with adequate and relevant skills for effective management of emergencies. This event organized by the Patron (St. John Ambulance) - MMUST Chapter, Prof. Stanley Omuterema, took place at the Multi-Purpose Hall (MPH).

The delegation led by the Chancellor- (St. John Ambulance), Dr. Robert Mutula, paid a courtesy call to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research, and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai. Prof. Shibairo noted that St. John Ambulance plays a key role in emergency management adding that such training will enhance emergency management in the institution and in the community at large. He advised the emergency responders to encourage the spirit of volunteerism among the youths in order to save lives.

“It is important to emphasize that service to humanity not only gives life a greater meaning but also unites the diverse people of Kenya. Any support extended in a spirit of service volunteerism is a demonstration of true love for our fellow humankind. Let us embrace it,” urged Prof. Shibairo.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo (right) shaking hands with the Chancellor- (St. John Ambulance), Dr. Robert Mutula during the courtesy call.

The event was flagged off by Prof. Mutai who encouraged the trainees to willingly help others without expecting to be rewarded.  He pointed out that most deaths happen where the incidents occurred but how the patient is managed and transferred to the hospital is the key. He assured that MMUST will continue collaborating with St. John Ambulance to offer expertise in emergency management through the Departments of Paramedic Sciences and Disaster Management.

Commenting on the training, Dr. Mutula stated that the government of Kenya is in support of such training at the grassroots level. Dr. Mutula appreciated MMUST for being one of the strong units and expressed gratitude to the University for its aggressiveness and support. He added that through this event, St. John Ambulance is able to expand and reach other neighboring Universities.

Dr. Mutula explains the paramedical response procedures inside the ambulance.

Prof. Omuterema noted that the emergency aid training is targeting the staff from catering, hostels, and estates departments as well as the students. “Safety starts with you. With basic first aid knowledge, you could be the difference in a life-threatening medical emergency situation. First aid skills are simple and easy and could make all the difference when correctly applied,” he stated.

Regional Commissioner Western Region, Mr. Alex Osej pointed out that MMUST is dominant in the activities of the St. John Ambulance- Western Chapter. He appreciated the University management for their support.

St. Johns Ambulance has remained true to the sole purpose of saving lives by giving first aid to casualties and training communities to cope with life-threatening emergencies.

By Linet Owuor, Ivy Alivitsa, and Millicent Masistsa

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

Once Again, MMUST’s Prolific Researcher and Astute Scholar Prof. Maurice Omolo Grabs Global Attention Through Impactful Vector Biology Training Project!!

We are delighted to inform you that Prof. Maurice Omollo’s collaborative NIH training grant, ‘Support for Vector Biology Training for Sustainable Control of Vector Borne Diseases in East Africa’; got awarded approximately USD 1.2M. The lead institution in Kenya for the exciting project is the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Institute (KALRO) while the MMUST team is led by Prof. Maurice Omolo.   He is also  the Centre Leader of MMUST's Centre for African Medicinal and Nutritional Flora and Fauna (CAMNFF). Prof. Omolo hails from the School of Natural Sciences (SONAS) which is led by Dr. Joseph Owino.

 The other members of the MMUST team are: Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda, Prof. Gordon Nguka and Dr. Evans Raballa. The current CoD of Optometry and Vision Sciences-Dr. Christine Wanjala, is the MMUST postdoc student on the project.

The project has drawn membership from a multiplicity of institutions, including, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST),Yale School of Public Health (YSPH)- USA, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Vector and Vector Borne Institute (VVBDI), Gulu University (Uganda), the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) from Tanzania.

The lead researchers from the participating institutions will train postdocs or early-career scientists across East Africa in Vector Biology Research and Control of Vector Borne Diseases.

Congratulations Prof. Omollo and team!!!!!!!

The School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance Acquaints Its Researchers With Prospective Strategies for Successful Grant Writing

Participants of the Grant Writing workshop.

The School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA), has acquainted its researchers with prospective strategies that are critical for successful grant writing. This was done through a grant writing workshop that was organized by the leadership of the School led by the Dean, Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa, and the Associate Dean, Prof. Stanley Omuterema. The workshop highlighted the basic steps in drafting a winning grant proposal for funding, including planning, researching as well as best practices for following up with potential funders. The one-day workshop which was facilitated by experts drawn from different organizations took place on 9 May 2023, at the Golf Hotel.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Planning Research, and Innovation, Prof. Charles Mutai advised the researchers to utilize seed money offered by the University to fine-tune their proposals for better funding. Prof. Mutai added that the grant writing workshop is a key forum that will enhance better proposal writing at the University.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Planning Research, and Innovation, Prof. Charles Mutai, speaking during the workshop.

“Acquaintance with today’s rapidly changing professional demands and economic conditions emphasizes the urgency for prospective strategies and skills for successful grant writing. Changing priorities and funding initiatives also emphasize the importance of keeping updated on these changes and knowing where to look for them. This is an important exercise for the growth of our institution in matters of research,” said Prof. Mutai.

Reiterating Prof. Mutai, the Registrar, Planning, Research, and Innovation, Prof. Alice Ndiema noted that competition for grant funds has increased appreciably in response to several national trends that go beyond the expected rise and fall of economic conditions.

Additionally, Dr. Nabiswa pointed out that acquiring grant writing knowledge entails learning new languages, conventions, processes, and skills that will enable successful grants in this increasingly competitive funding market. Further, he encouraged the researchers to maintain a steady stream of current information from funding sources.

“A key component of becoming a successful academic researcher is the ability to win funding for your research. This is a practical session that has offered us an opportunity to put the learning into practice in a safe environment. As grant writers, let us utilize this forum to share experiences,” he encouraged.

The Dean- SDMHA, Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa addressing the participants.

Similarly, Prof. Omuterema applauded such collaborative efforts that will yield cutting-edge research. “One of the most important attributes of a University is to engage in cutting-edge research that has high importance and applications to society. It also helps in preparing students to tackle some of the world’s greatest challenges including combating disasters,” said Prof. Omuterema. 

The Coordinator, Webometrics and Short Courses, Dr. Dennis Ochieno challenged the SDMHA researchers to uphold their online presence by developing their profiles and updating their research in the digital spaces.

“I believe there is a scope in an online presence for every researcher. Having an online presence helps others understand you and your research better. It encourages people to approach you for collaboration, job offers, funding allocations, and other opportunities,” said Dr. Ochieno.

One of the keynote speakers, Ms. Margaret Wanyonyi from the Kenya Red Cross Society noted that it is key to align to priorities and strategic plan of the funder. She added that there is a need to minimize operational costs and build a good relationship with the funders in order to tap into more opportunities. 

Ms. Margaret Wanyonyi making her presentation at the workshop.

“It is important to align your needs statement with your proposed project to demonstrate to the funder why your project is important and how their support will impact those served by your nonprofit. Grant funders are keen on realistic goals and objectives that also make a true, lasting impact on those served through the project. Avoid having so many objectives,” she urged.

Notably, the workshop also outlined different types of funders, what a grant seeker should consider when developing a concept, understanding how a proposal will be reviewed, and the financial concerns of funders.  The researchers were guided on how to manage their relationship with a funder, whether the proposal was successful or rejected.

Certainly, such workshops are designed to provide insight into trends in the grant funding world that enhances proposal writing skills. Grant writing can seem like a daunting task and it’s easy to feel uncertain about how to write a successful proposal. However, mastery of the components of a good grant proposal will help you to improve your proposal writing process. 

By Linet Owuor

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

The School of Education Conducts a School Practice Advisory Workshop in a Bid to Enhance Quality Teaching

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

The Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s School of Education (SEDU) on 4^th May, 2023 conducted a school practice advisory workshop in a bid to enhance quality teaching. The workshop themed, ‘Teacher Education for Quality Teaching’, was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo. School practice is an integral component of teacher training, which exposes the teacher trainees to the actual teaching and learning experience, and the teaching profession.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Shibairo encouraged the participants to effectively conduct school practice to make the University reputable. He urged the lecturers to do a thorough work while assessing students on school practice to help them build their careers. “We have competitive lecturers to provide quality training to the students. It is our commitment to keep the University at the top to attract more students. Let us empower our students for a better nation,” he urged.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Students Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha speaking at the workshop.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Students Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha pointed out that it is important for students to go to for attachments in areas that are easily accessible during assessment. Prof. Golicha challenged the lecturers to ensure the proper delivery of the students during the practice. He emphasized the preparedness of the students before going to school practice.

Speaking during the workshop, the Dean SEDU, Prof. Moses Poipoi acknowledged that school practice is a critical apprenticeship activity in teachers’ education that empowers pre-service teachers to acquire practical skills in pedagogy and other school operations. He added that assessors are expected to uphold the values of customer focus, accountability, collegiality, equity, excellence, innovativeness, and professionalism during the practice.

The Dean SEDU, Prof. Moses Poipoi making a presentation at the workshop.

The Coordinator (Webuye Campus), Prof. Peter Odera, advised that there is a need for proper guidance and counseling in schools. He said that the way the students present themselves is key and the student-teachers should champion guidance and counseling during their practice. “The assessors should ensure the student teacher is mentally prepared before the lesson. The student teachers should use good study skills, be energetic, and interactive, give assignments to students, and avoid spoon-feeding the students,” he said.

In his presentation, ‘The Concept and Practice of Teacher Advising’, the Chairman of the Department (Curriculum Instruction Technology), Prof. Mukasa Simiyu advised the assessors to go out as advisers and supervisors. For this reason, they will look at what the student has done and identify the problem as well as find a possible solution to the problem.

The Coordinator, School Practice- Dr. Eric Wangila giving his remarks during the School Practice workshop.

The Coordinator, School Practice- Dr. Eric Wangila tackled the Structure and Procedure of School Practice and urged the assessors to interact with the head of the schools for effective feedback from the student-teachers. In addition, he encouraged them to have a session with the student-teachers and look at the previous lesson plan. This will make the student more comfortable.

The participants were advised to ensure that the students have a complete scheme of work, lesson objectives, and lesson plan. Further, they were advised to consider the following teaching strategies; sequence, question and reinforcement, mastery of content, resources, and materials as well as the grading system.

Indeed, such workshops provide opportunities and model engaging learner-centered educational practices, while participants leave with effective new strategies which they can implement in engaging the students during school practice. These strategies empower students to become active, responsible learners, improving student academic success and retention.

By Verna Awuor, Melody Mutua and Sylvia Shibutuli

Photos by Wilberforce Shiundu

The School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance Committed to Equipping Its Students With Hands-on Skills

The School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA) is committed to equipping its students with practical skills in disaster management to suit the dynamic job industry. This was evident during a five-day Field Skills Practicum which was conducted from 29^th April to 3^rd May, 2023 in Budalangi. This is an experiential learning that is undertaken during the second semester of year two (2) of every academic year as a precursor to field attachment. Industry experts are incorporated to facilitate hands-on demonstrations and training in different areas of disaster management for students. The course is mandatory since it equips them with first–hand experience in life skills; survival and adaptability; search and rescue as well as leadership skills.

The practicum involved third-year students pursuing Bachelor’s Degrees in Geospatial Information Science, Conflict Resolution and Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster Mitigation and Sustainable Development, Disaster Preparedness and Engineering Management, and Emergency Management and Humanitarian Assistance.

A section of the students during First-Aid Practice and Trauma Management group discussion.

Commenting on the field skills practicum, the Dean SDMHA, Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa who is also the course lecturer pointed out that the purpose of this course is to provide practical emergency management experience in a supervised professional setting that is geared towards the integration of theory and practice.

“The practicum is the best opportunity for students to begin to interact with the professional practitioner as well as the community. It gives them a safe learning environment to build experiences relevant to the work of an emergency management professional. At the end of this exercise, the students will be required to submit a report and an evaluation will be conducted on the application of concepts, principles, and skills acquired,” stated Dr. Nabiswa.

Mr. Stephen Wasike demonstrating Hazard mapping.

One of the facilitators, Mr. Stephen Wasike- a Geographic Information System (GIS) Expert, took the students through Hazard Mapping and Application of GIS in Data Collection and Analysis, Managing Water Shade Areas, and Mapping out Hotspot Disaster Areas. He noted that GIS in disaster management acts as a tool for supporting decisions.

“The application of GIS in disaster management helps in understanding the nature of the disaster and solving complex management problems. In addition, decisions can only be made by analyzing the different GIS layers. Management and planning of disasters, as well as handling disastrous conditions are currently useful, with the help of geospatial and socio-economic data,” said Mr. Wasike.

A demonstration of Trauma Management by one of the students.

Further, the practicum encompassed various activities including; Rescue Operations, Mass Evacuation, Search Techniques in Different Disasters, Teambuilding, Crime Scene Management, First-Aid Practice, and Trauma Management, as well as a Visit to Rescue Centres. The students also visited various parts of Budalangi to learn about the effects of floods along River Nzoia.

The students were accompanied by the Chairperson of the Department of Emergency Management Studies, Dr. Nicholas Ombachi, and other members of staff including Mr. Leonard Nyongesa, Ms. Betty Opilo, Ms. Janerose Kimuma, and Mr. Peter Otsianda.

Students after the water rescue session in Budalangi.

Certainly, Disaster Management is a field that requires hands-on learning to truly master. Although classroom learning provides a vital foundation, it's the practical application of skills and knowledge that distinguishes successful managers. By providing students with real-world opportunities to observe, analyze, and solve societal problems, these experiences are invaluable for preparing them to thrive in their careers.

By Linet Owuor

MMUST-Diamond Trust Bank Officially Launch MOU Set to Enhance Students and Staff Welfare

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has formally launched its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) in a bid to enhance the welfare of staff and students. Yesterday, 3^rd May, 2023, a delegation of the bank’s branch Managers, drawn from the Kakamega and Kisumu regional offices, paid a visit to MMUST for the launching ceremony. The event was officiated by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai, who was standing in for the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo.

Prof. Mutai in his remarks expressed gratitude to DTB for partnering with the University, saying that this collaboration will go a long way towards improving the well-being of the entire MMUST community. “This University is committed to supporting the growth of its students as well as its employees. We are ready to work with the bank and we look forward to the success of this collaboration,” said Prof. Mutai.

Prof. Mutai gives his remarks during the MMUST-DTB MoU launching ceremony.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Students Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha, shared the same views during a courtesy call made to his office by the DTB team. “It is great that we have an MoU with Diamond Trust Bank. Let us aim at implementing it for the benefit of both institutions,” stated Prof. Golicha.

“Diamond Trust Bank has presence in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Burundi,” revealed the DTB Regional Branch Manager (Kisumu), Ms. Beatrice Oluoch. Ms. Oluoch discussed the key areas of collaboration highlighted in the MoU including; job shadowing programmes for MMUST students, internship opportunities, graduate management trainee programmes, and mentorship programmes. “For staff, we will partner in the areas of personal unsecured check off loan, car loan and mortgage scheme, salary accounts and advance, as well as credit cards,” she added.

DTB’s Ms. Beatrice Oluoch gives her remarks during the launching ceremony.

The Ag. Registrar (Academic Affairs), Prof Thomas Sakwa, reiterated that this MoU is a great move for the University. He pointed out that there is a need for MMUST to acquire more Till numbers in order to ease the process of collecting fees, adding that this will also enhance efficiency in the admission process. The Director Privately Sponsored Students Program (PSSP), Prof. Benedict Alala, appreciated the bank for creating slots specifically for MMUST students in its upcoming internship and attachment intakes.

Other people present during the MMUST-DTB MoU launching ceremony were; MMUST- Ag. Registrar (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Alice Ndiema, Dean School of Business and Economics (SOBE), Prof. Robert Egessa and Marketing Officer, Mr. James Muriithi. DTB- Mr. Benard Olage, Mr. Joel Wasonga, Mr. Bivon Magoma and Ms. Grace Odhiambo.

Prof. Mutai receives a copy of the signed MoU from Ms. Oluoch.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has continued to demonstrate its dedication to improving the welfare of its staff and students. The Memorandum of Understanding between the University and Diamond Trust Bank has gotten off to a good start, as was evident during the launch, and there is no doubt that both institutions will reap great benefits from this collaboration.

By Wangari Wambugu
Photos by Shiundu Masafu