National Council for People With Disabilities Conducts Accessibility and Usability Audit to Reinforce University’s Compliance

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha (seated center), Job Placement Officer NCPWD- Ms. Jane Wamugu and MMUST team.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) is hosting officials from the National Council of People with Disability (NCPWD) for a two-day audit on usability and accessibility to reinforce its compliance with the Council’s standards. The purpose of this audit is to establish how well the University’s buildings perform in relation to access and ease of use by a wide range of potential users, including people with physical mobility and sensory impairments. The exercise which began today, 30^th March 2023 to Friday 31^st March 2023, is coordinated by the Disability Mainstreaming Committee.

The team paid a courtesy call to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha who is representing the Vice Chancellor. Prof. Shibairo urged the visitors to feel at home as they undertake their audit.

“We are happy to have this activity taking place at our institution. MMUST is at the forefront to promote inclusivity and in case there are areas that require adjustments, we shall implement them according to your standards,” said Prof. Golicha.

From left; Prof. Golicha, the Director, Privately Sponsored Student Programmes- Prof. Ondiek Alala, and the Coordinator AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit -Prof. Gladys Mengich during the courtesy call.

The other notable personalities present were the Director, Privately Sponsored Student Programmes- Prof. Ondiek Alala (representing DVC PRI), the Chairperson Disability Mainstreaming Committee - Prof. Danstone Lilechi, Coordinator AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit (ACGDMU)- Prof. Gladys Mengich, and Disability Mainstreaming Committee members; Mr. Daniel Korir, Mr. Paul K. Rotich, and Mr. Lawrence Oluchiri.

The two-day audit is aimed at performing an assessment of infrastructure for accessibility that allows easy navigation by the PWDs. Some of the areas to be assessed include; door knobs, lifts, stairs, gates, lecture halls, parking, and lighting. Additionally, the audit will also involve an evaluation of the Website accessibility, Procurement procedures, and Human Resource roles regarding the employability of the PWDs in the institution.

 The Chairperson Disability Mainstreaming Committee - Prof. Danstone Lilechi and Ms. Wamugu listening keenly.

Once the assessment is done, the NCPWD officers will submit a report regarding the audit that will state the performance of the University. Thereafter, there will be a de-briefing on the findings for implementation by the University.

Certainly, there is a need to embrace such exercises to promote the Accessibility and Usability of the built environment to ensure MMUST as a whole is accessible to PWDs.

By Linet Owuor and Sheila Ivayo

Photos by Linet Owuor

The School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance Conducts Community Outreach to Kakamega School for the Deaf as Part of Field Skills

The Dean SDMHA, Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa (in red cross attire) together with staff from MMUST, Kakamega School for the Deaf and a section of students who participated in the outreach.

The School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA), in collaboration with the Disaster Environmental Management Association (DEMA) on 29^th March 2023, carried out community outreach to the Kakamega School for the Deaf. This is a compulsory practical component that is carried out as part of learning every Academic Year. It also fosters humanitarian and disaster components in the students.

Speaking during the exercise, the Dean SDMHA, Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa noted that this is a key part of learning for the students. It instills in them the virtues of empathy, kindness, and humility. It also enables them to plan and execute humanitarian interventions.

“As the course lecturer, this Field Skills Practicum helps in bridging the gap between the classroom and the practice environment. At the end of this activity, each student will submit a report for evaluation since this is an essential part of their learning. The climax of the Field Skills Practicum will be actualized in Budalangi where the students will get exposure to real disaster interventions,” said Dr. Nabiswa.

A section of the participants assisting in washing the clothes of the learners

The Deputy Headteacher, of Kakamega School for the Deaf, Mr. Isaac Omongo, expressed delight to the University for endeavoring to empower their learners.

“We really appreciate your donations to our school and promoting inclusivity to People living with Disabilities. Our students feel encouraged and I am certain that at the end of this exercise, they will not remain the same,” he added.

The School Representatives, Mr. Clifford Opiyo (Male- 3^rd year) and Ms. Caroline Kimamo (Female-1^st year) pointed out that through this exercise, they have been able to learn and share experiences with the learners. “We have been able to engage with the students to learn their challenges and know their needs as part of our learning. We appreciate fellow comrades for their selflessness and teamwork that have made this a success,” said the duo.

Reiterating his counterparts, the DEMA Director, Mr. David Omurui (1^st year) appreciated their School management for offering them the opportunity to practically learn what they have been taught in class. He urged fellow comrades to continue impacting society through humanitarian interventions.

Learners from Kakamega School for the Deaf receiving donations from MMUST team.

The students who participated in the outreach included a section of 1^st year, 2^nd year, and 3rd-year students pursuing  Security Intelligence, Emergency Management Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies as well as Disaster Management respectively. They offered various services to the school such as cleaning the compound, classes, and dormitories, washing, and counseling the teens. To promote bonding and integration, the students shared a drink with the learners. Similarly, they offered an assortment of donations including sugar, stationery, sanitary towels, and foodstuff; courtesy of their contributions.

The students were also accompanied by other staff from SDMHA including Mr. Leonard Nyongesa, Ms. Betty Opilo, Ms. Janerose Kimuma, and Mr. Peter Otsianda.

Indeed this is an important learning session that helps in the assessment of the students to gauge their readiness for the practice of their professions outside the classroom setting. It is also a form of Corporate Social Responsibility that boosts the image of the University and helps in transforming the community. 

By Linet Owuor

MMUST Vice Chancellor Visits Three Students Admitted at the Kakamega County General Teaching and Referral Hospital Following Attack by Unknown Assailants

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo consoling the student.

 The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo has today 28th March 2023, visited three University students admitted at the Kakamega County General Teaching and Referral Hospital (KCGH) following an attack by Unknown Assailants, at their residences on Thursday and Saturday night. The VC was accompanied by the Dean of Students Dr. Bernadette Abwao, staff from the Directorate of Corporate Communications and Marketing (DCCM), Security, University Clinic and Dean’s office, and the MMUSO Chairperson- Mr. Benjamin Mutisya.

The three students; Ms. Belinda Kathambi (1^st year), Ms. Gloria Akubu (2^nd year- Bachelor of Education), and Mr. Felix Okello (1^st year- Bachelor of Commerce) sustained injuries and are getting treatment at the County hospital. Ms. Akubu, who has been discharged, and Ms. Kathambi (still under medication) are roommates and were attacked by thugs at their residence near Lupe hospital on Saturday night. Similarly, Mr. Okello who is still admitted, awaiting surgery, was attacked on Thursday night, 23^rd March 2023.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, the Dean, and Student Leaders consoling one of the attacked student.

Speaking during the visit to the hospital, Prof. Shibairo noted that the University is keen on ensuring the safety of students at all times. He however discouraged the students from staying in insecure places, late-night parties, and walking late at night.

“In order to foster the security of our students we have collaborated with the County government of Kakamega to have police patrols in hotspot areas. We have also established a police post at Kefinco estate and I am glad to report that the insecurity cases have since reduced. I am reviving the liaison office to work closely with the community, the County government, and the KCGH administration to ensure our students are attended to promptly when such cases arise. I wish our students a quick recovery,” said Prof. Shibairo.

Ms. Gloria Akubu explaining a point to the Vice Chancellor.

Additionally, the Vice Chancellor noted that the University is undertaking a project on affordable housing to construct a ten-thousand-capacity hostel to boost the security of our students. He also encouraged the students to have medical covers which are very key in facilitating their treatment when an emergency arises.

The liaison team will focus on students’ security, carry out resource mobilization, and activities aimed at establishing a rapport between the students and the community, as well as the health facilities where our students seek medication.

Echoing the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Abwao condemned the act saying that there is a need for the students to stay safe, especially at this time when attacks are prone in our country.

The team from the University during the visit to the hospital.

The MMUSO Chairperson, Mr. Benjamin Mutisya, assured comrades of his support in ensuring their safety. He noted that as Student Executive Council, in collaboration with the University Management, they are planning to conduct a community policing outreach where they will engage the community, and the County security personnel to address the issue of attacks and assaults on MMUST students. This will help in establishing a long-term solution for the same.

The Kakamega County General Teaching and Referral Hospital Administrator, Mr. Hillary Kiberenge, and Ms. Peris Wangulu (nurse) appreciated the Vice Chancellor for visiting the students. They noted that the visit is a gesture of the good working relations existing between the two institutions.

The visit by the Vice Chancellor is a reflection of the University's commitment to students' security and welfare. 

By Linet Owuor

Photos by Masafu Shiundu

MMUST Hosts the 5th Edition of the UHAI Festival Western Circuit to Foster Talents of Persons With Disabilities in the Society

Participants during the festival.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology hosted the 5th Edition of the UHAI Festival Western Circuit on Friday, 24th March 2023, to promote and foster the talents of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in society. MMUST also participated in this event which was earmarked for giving the PWDs an opportunity to showcase different talents, celebrate life, and network with other members of society. The festival which was organized by Signs Media TV led by the Director, Mr. Luke Muleka was marked with a wide array of games and sports activities, performing arts, dance, music, athletics, as well as fashion show at the University grounds.

In his opening remarks, the Director of the Privately Sponsored Students Program (PSSP)- Prof. Benedict Alala who was representing the Vice Chancellor- Prof. Solomon Shibairo, noted that this is a unique event that empowers PWDs to live independently and to have equal opportunities in society.

“We are aware that a few events are tailored for the PWDs for Social, economic, political, and talent development. I consider this a great step towards identifying, harnessing, and supporting the talent of PWDs. As a University, we are at the forefront of championing the rights of PWDs. As we mark this day, I encourage you to continue engaging in such activities as a way of nurturing and promoting your talents,” he urged.

The Director of the Privately Sponsored Students Program (PSSP)- Prof. Benedict Alala giving an opening remark.

Speaking during the festival, Mr. Muleka pointed out that the media is committed to championing the inclusion of the PWDs and thus promoting competition and participation of the special group in co-curricular activities. He urged the participants to utilize the opportunity to grow their talents.

“It is our mandate to build cultural bridges, remove barriers, eliminate stigma, and create a society that allows free interaction between PWDs and non-PWDs. Let us ensure the welfare and employability of the PWDs in the country as well as the African Region. I thank the University management for hosting this festival; it is a prudent gesture that you appreciate equality,” he stated.

From left; the Director, Mr. Luke Muleka, Prof. Alala, and the Chief Officer of Youth, Sports, and Library Services (Kakamega County)- Mr. Joseph Abucheri consulting each other at the festival.

Similarly, his counterpart, Mr. Jared Getanda who is the Director of Talent Development at Signs Media TV encouraged the participants to develop their talents and make the best presentations that are worth showcasing on television.

According to Ms. Edna Sabin who was representing the Patron Disability Club (MMUST)- Prof. Peter Bukhala, co-curricular activities act as social, psychological, physical, and emotional therapy to our bodies. She added that the University is supporting the country as well as the world by incorporating the PWDs in the activities such as sports. “As an institution, PWDs are special to our hearts. Let us collaborate in championing for adaptability of abled-bodied and people with disabilities in physical activities,” she urged.

The Chairperson of the Guiding and Counselling Department, Ms. Pauline Adhiambo who was representing the Dean of Students, Dr. Bernadette Abwao, acknowledged that the office ensures inclusion of the PWDs in the University activities such as games and sports. “As we celebrate here today, ensure you enjoy yourselves and leave a different person. God created you with a purpose. Take up the mantle and utilize opportunities with courage,” she said.

Ms. Pauline Adhiambo (white blouse) among other participants at the festival.

The Chief Officer of Youth, Sports, and Library Services (Kakamega County)- Mr. Joseph Abucheri guaranteed the County’s support in the development of social, equity, and empowerment of special groups in its operations. “We are here to watch, participate, and enjoy with you. As we celebrate, let us work together and promote a spirit of teamwork,” he stated.

Besides magnificent performances, the event culminated in award giving ceremony where winning groups bagged 150,000, 100, 000 and 50,000 Kenyan Shillings respectively.

The festival attracted persons with disabilities from various institutions including; MMUST, Maseno University, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), Kisumu National Polytechnic, Lugari Technical Training College, Shamberere Technical Training Institute, and St. Angela Mumias Secondary Vocational School for the Deaf Girls’.

Participants of the sitting volleyball games between Chui (blue) and simba (red) teams.

The committee members during the festival included; Mr. Geoffrey Barasa, Mr. Boniface Manoah, Mr. Victor Ashiali, Ms. Linet Owuor, Mr. Joseph Mugo, Ms. Selphine Muyonga, and Mr. Akaka Shisoka. The MMUSO secretary General- Ms. Natalie Atieno, Co-Curricular Secretary- Mr. Gonza Felix, and the Special Interest Secretary- Ms. Loice Akinyi were also present at the event.

Indeed, engaging PWDs in such life-changing activities enhance their interpersonal skills, peer models, problem-solving skills, positive self-image, and respect for others. This can trickle down to their families as well, teaching them to accept their differences.

By Verna Awuor

Photos by Linet Owuor

Change Management is the Only Key to Survival of Universities, Participants at MMUST Induction Workshop for Chairpersons of Departments Warned

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo (in white shirt) and the three DVC’s – Prof. John Kuria Thuo, Prof. Hussein Golicha and Prof. Charles Mutai at the induction workshop.

Participants at the just concluded Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology induction workshop for Chairpersons of Departments (CoD’s) have been challenged to embrace change management in order to ensure survival of their University in the competitive higher education market. The two day workshop which took place at Kisumu Hotel, Kisumu County from Thursday 23^rd to Friday 24^th March, 2023 was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo. The training was organized to upscale the management skills of the CoD’s, who are line managers to enable them keep abreast with the modern dynamics in higher education.

Speaking at the workshop which he officially opened, Prof. Shibairo challenged the CoD’s and other managers at the event to step up in research and embrace information technology in order to catapult performance at the University and in the education sector to the next level. “Let us intentionally brand ourselves and leverage on ICT and research”, he stated.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo making his remarks at the induction workshop

 Concurring with the Vice Chancellor regarding the importance of continuous learning for all University managers, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration and Finance Prof. John Kuria encouraged Chairpersons of Departments as well as Deans to interact with students, staff and key stakeholders to ensure this happens. “CoDs are the critical building blocks of the University. This is where we measure the efficiency and effectiveness of a University”, he said.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic and Student affairs, Prof. Hussein Golicha expressed his delight that his Division was spearheading this capacity building exercise. “As leaders, CoD’s are expected to marshal their departments to assist the University to achieve its goals. Therefore, orientation, socialization and capacity building of CoD’s is important to this division”, he asserted.

Participants at the induction workshop for Chairpersons of Departments, Kisumu Hotel.

Noting that Chairpersons of Departments must be supported, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Planning, Research and Innovation, Prof. Charles Mutai, who later officially closed the workshop. said that CoDs do a lot of work, making them the engine of the University. “I appreciate the work done by all CoDs and encourage you to be visionary and transformative leaders, he said.

In her keynote address, Prof Asenath Sigot treated the participants of the workshop to a thought provoking presentation focusing on the need for change management for the survival of Universities.  “Universities need to make use of the available tools to manage change in their organizations. This includes preparing for change, managing change and reinforcing change. To do this effectively, there is need to cultivate effective communication skills in order to manage change while at the same time nurture a culture that excites individuals. Leadership is about creating the kind of change that you believe in. Let us move from average to excellent leaders in our departments.”

Prof. Asenath Sigot giving her keynote address during the induction workshop for Chairpersons of Departments, Kisumu Hotel.

A number of presentations were made at the workshop, including, ‘Academic Leadership and Customer Care in Higher Education: Role of CoD’s’ by Dr. Eglay Tsuma, ‘Rationalization in Academics Role of Chairpersons of Departments’ by Prof. Moses Poipoi, ‘Corporate Governance: Standards of Leadership and Governance in Higher Education’ by Prof. Edwin Wamukoya, ‘Values, Ethics, Integrity in Academic Processes’ by Prof. Thomas Sakwa, ‘Public Financial Management’ by CPA Jared Rading, ‘Organizational Communication’ by Dr. Teresa Okoth, ‘Role of Chairpersons of Department in Quality Assurance’ by Prof. Danstone L. Barasa, ‘Strategic Implementation and Curriculum Design’ by Prof. Judah Ndiku, ‘Resource Mobilization and Project Management’ by Prof. Inyani Simala, ‘Academic Integrity and Effective Administration of Examinations: Role of CoDs’ by Prof. Edwin Wamukoya, ‘Open and Distance e-, Roles of Learning (ODeL) an Enabler in Curriculum’ by Prof. Gordon Nguka, ‘Roles of CoDs in Strategic Planning/ Implementation’ by Prof. Inyani Simala, ‘Effective Procurement for Departments’ by Ms. Scarlet Kavaya, ‘Strategic Human Resource and Organization Culture Management in the Department’ by Prof. Robert Egessa and ‘Research Strategies and Management in Academic Departments’ by Prof. Peter Bukhala.

There was a light moment when veteran expert of education, Prof. Aggrey Simiyu from the department of Curriculum and Instructional Technology (CIT), took the participants through the critical Acts, Charter and Statutes that set up and govern Universities as well as the details entailed in the overseer role of the Commission for University Education (CUE) - all these in a well- versed characteristic professorial manner, without referring anywhere!

As part of the induction, Prof. Inyani Simala reminded CoDs to focus on their personal development and remember to take care of themselves and their families. “If you do not take care of yourself, you can run mad or even die. CoDs must ensure they create time for family and friends”, stated the renowned Professor of Kiswahili.

In the words of Prof. Inyani Simala “Leadership is the greatest problem facing Universities; not only resources.”  As the induction workshop for CoDs came to a close, it was clear that for MMUST to survive, everybody must change the way they do things, from the Chairpersons of Departments to the University’s top managers. While the CoDs are expected to carry out their roles diligently, they must be sufficiently resourced and supported to do the same. The fact that MMUST has taken cognizance of the need for frequent and continuous training of CoDs is a step towards effective change management. Let us take many more steps.

By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Shiundu Masafu 

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

MMUST Launches Alcohol And Drug Abuse Baseline Survey In An Effort To Combat Drug Abuse Menace Among Its Staff And Students

The participants at the launch.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Alcohol and Drug Abuse (ADA) Committee on 22^nd March 2023, launched an eight-day Alcohol and Drug Abuse Baseline Survey in a bid to combat the menace of drug abuse among the University staff and students. The survey, aimed at generating data on the levels of drug abuse in MMUST, will be conducted in tandem with the National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) guidelines.

The exercise, which is spearheaded by the NACADA Western Region Manager, Ms. Sarah Koske, commenced on the 16^th and will end on Monday, the 27^th of March 2023. This will be followed by the review of ADA policy to inform the establishment of a customized employee and student assistance program for the University.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Students Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha, acknowledged that the survey seeks to give an intent understanding of the general trend of alcohol and drug abuse among the employees and its effects on their productivity. “We look forward to establishing the impact of drug abuse on productivity among our staff and students. I believe we shall reduce the impact of drug abuse amongst us to improve future productivity, employability, and performance,” he stated.

The NACADA Western Region Manager, Ms. Sarah Koske giving a remark during the launch.

Expressing her delight, Ms. Koske noted that alcohol and drug abuse affects us equally and urged the participants to analyze the issue from various approaches. She guaranteed her support throughout the exercise, adding that the root cause of drug abuse among University students is the availability of free time. “As we embark on the survey, let us understand that drug abuse is here with us. Let us face the reality and help others live a healthy life,” she said.

Speaking during the launch, the Dean of Students, Dr. Bernadette Abwao, pointed out that alcohol and drug abuse is a national disaster, especially in institutions of higher learning. She applauded the ADA Committee for its commitment to changing the mundane. “There are emerging cases of alcohol and drug abuse among our students. These are our future generation of leaders and employees who need a better direction in society. Let us come out and support this exercise for a better future,” she urged. 

The Chairperson of the ADA Committee, Dr. Dennis Omayio, addressing participants at the event.

Expressing his gratitude, the Chairperson of the ADA Committee, Dr. Dennis Omayio, noted that this is an important exercise that will enable the University to handle the challenges of drug abuse, which not only affect MMUST’s staff and students but also the community. “Alcohol and drug abuse is a threat to society and the University is not left out as a larger part of society. The exercise will help the institution to manage the issues of drug abuse, thus increasing our performance,” he stated.

Further, Dr. Omayio outlined the objectives of the survey which include; to determine psychoactive drugs abused by the University staff and students, to establish the distribution of different drugs abused by the staff and students at various levels, to find out the causes of drug abuse in the University, and to explore the effects of drug abuse on staff and students in terms of performance and productivity. He urged the participants to be honest for more efficient and effective findings, which will help in increasing productivity among staff and students.

The ADA Committee Research Manager, Dr. Rose Opiyo, speaking during the launch.

The Research Manager (ADA Committee), Dr. Rose Opiyo, acknowledged that drug and substance abuse is a risk in society and commended NACADA for working together with the University in managing the issues of alcohol and drug abuse. She added that the exercise will enable the committee to fulfill the mandate of NACADA in supporting the national agenda of combating drug abuse.

“This is a prudent exercise and it is proof that the University values its staff and students. MMUST is a content-centered institution and this exercise will help us recognize the people around us. As we conduct the survey, we shall understand the matters affecting our staff and students, therefore finding necessary solutions to them,” said Dr. Opiyo.

A section of the participants listening keenly during the launch.

ADA Committee members present during the launch included; Mr. Joseph Mugo, Ms. Pauline Adhiambo, Ms. Miriam Kimani, Ms. Marble Wanyonyi, Ms. Purity Muchere, and Ms. Jane Muriuki. The MMUSO Chairperson, Mr. Benjamin Mutisya, as well as the MMUSO Treasurer, Mr. Moses Ekitela, were also present.

The launch brought together ADA committee members, MMUSO leadership, and peer educators who are also research assistants on this project. Certainly, this key exercise will provide comprehensive and varied evidence-based interventions for enhancing educational outcomes. This will also help the University to achieve its performance contract on ADA-related case management for the financial year 2022/2023.

By Verna Awuor

Photos by Wangari Wambugu

MMUST's Security Department Conducts a Fire Safety and First Aid Training for Staff and Students to Increase Awareness on Safety Measures

Participants at graduation square during the training.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s security department has today, 22^nd March 2023, conducted a one-day fire safety and first aid training for staff and students in an effort to increase awareness on safety measures as well as how to handle oneself during emergencies. The event was organized in conjunction with MMUST’s School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA) and the County Government of Kakamega’s Department of Disaster Management. The training, which took place at the University Graduation Square, was attended by over 100 participants.

Speaking during the event, the Chief Security Officer, Dr. Julius Mabia noted that fire safety and first aid training is important because the University community needs to be equipped with practical skills to enable them to respond in the event of any emergency.

“Emergency preparation is key to keeping all staff on the same page about what to do in the event of an emergency. Conducting training of this nature puts knowledge out there and helps reduce the risk of certain emergencies such as fire. It also helps staff and students to keep calm instead of panicking if anything similar was to happen,” said Dr. Mabia.  

MMUST Chief Security Officer, Dr. Julius Mabia training staff at graduation square.

The team of fire and rescue personnel led by Mr. Jackson Wanyama, taught the participants about the types of fires, causes of fire, fire safety as well as fire equipment. He stressed that fire prevention is the first step in fire safety as he took the participants through the steps to be followed in case of fire and how to raise an alarm during such situations. They also demonstrated evacuation techniques during a fire emergency and how to search for people and effectively evacuate them. Further, a mock fire drill was carried out and the participants were given the opportunity to participate in the demonstrations of extinguishing fire and carrying out rescue operations.

“We have different classes of fires caused by either combustion of ordinary or organic materials, highly flammable liquids, gas or metals such as aluminium. It is important for any fire fighter to do a serious inspection of the cause in order to use the right extinguisher or tool to put out the fire,” stated Mr. Wanyama. 

Mr. Jackson Wanyama from the Kakamega County fire department demonstrates how to use a fire blanket.

The Kakamega County Deputy Commander – St. John Ambulance, Mr. Abdallah Hassan took the participants through first aid. In his address, he noted that first aid is a skill that everyone should have.

“We do first aid to preserve life, prevent further injury and to promote recovery. Accidents can happen at any time and in any place and they can range from minor injuries to more serious emergencies such as cardiac arrest or even severe bleeding. The ambiguity of accidents makes it important for everyone to be equipped with first aid skills,” said Mr. Abdallah. He further educated the participants on how to do an initial assessment in case of an accident, types of casualties, how to check for breathing and performing the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) to both adults and children including infants.

Mr. Abdallah Hassan of St. John's ambulance demonstrates how to carry out first aid.

Mr. Abdallah emphasized that often, emergency situations find people unprepared hence we need to quickly think and intervene using the available resources. He added that properly equipped first aid kits should be made available at different locations within the University, to provide supplies to administer care to the casualties and minimize health effects before medical attention can be secured.

Other notable personalities present during the training include MMUST Security Officer, Mr. Benedict Shitera; Staff from SDHMA Mr. Leonard Nyongesa and Ms. Jane Kimuma. Two Student representatives from SDHMA, Mr. Clifford Opiyo and Ms. Caroline Kimamo also attended. The Kakamega County Disaster Unit team consisted of fire inspectors Ms. Florence Awonda, Ms. Lavender Ochieng and Ms. Edilquine Amaumo as well as Pump Operators-Mr. Jackson Agesa and Mr. Anthony Musyomi.

Fire safety and first aid training is important to everyone regardless of whether they work in a high risk environment or not. By providing comprehensive training on the same, MMUST will certainly help prevent fires and ensure that people are prepared to respond effectively in the event of an emergency.

By Caren Nekesa and Sheila Ivayo 

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

Biophysical Society (BPS) Ambassador Africa, Dr. Philip Amuyunzu Hosts Induction Training for Expansion of the Society in the Continent

A screenshot picture of a section of the webinar participants.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, lecturer in the School of Natural Sciences (SONAS)- Dr. Philip Amuyunzu on Friday, 17^th March 2023, hosted an induction training webinar to champion the expansion of the Society in Africa. This was courtesy of the Biophysical Society Kenyan Chapter housed at MMUST where Dr. Amuyunzu is heading the association.

Speaking during the webinar, Dr. Amuyunzu noted that the membership has been rising gradually across the globe.  However, he highlighted some of the challenges affecting society which included gender parity, low enrollment, lack of Biophysics mainstream staff, and reduced government funding.

“I urge you all to embrace Biophysics and establish BPS Chapters in your respective countries. This can be achieved through promoting international conferences in Biophysics,” said Dr. Amuyunzu.

This virtual event drew participants from various countries including Uganda, Nigeria, Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kenya, and officials from the Biophysical Society. The officials from the BPS assured the participants of reduced membership rates to increase the enrollment of new members to the society. They also conclusively addressed other concerns raised during the webinar and assured the participants of their support to ensure the establishment of more BPS chapters.

Notably, such engagements not only increase the visibility of MMUST but also offer the Institution numerous opportunities in the world of Biophysics.

By Linet Owuor