News and Events

Keep up to date with the latest news and events from MMUST

MMUST Researchers of French Urged to Share Research Findings for Increase in Knowledge and Awareness Regarding French

Researchers of French and students during the workshop.

MMUST’s researchers of French have been urged to share their research findings in an effort to increase knowledge of the subject as a language and create awareness of what is happening in the field of French. This was evident during a two-day workshop organized by the Department of Language and Literature Education, which saw French researchers convene to share their research findings. The event, which took place at the MMUST French Resource Centre was graced by the Dean, School of Natural Sciences (SONAS), Dr. Joseph Owino, who was representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic and Students Affairs, Prof. Hussein Golicha.

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Dr. Owino addressing the participants during the event.

In his opening address, Dr. Owino stressed on the need for individuals to pursue language studies. He encouraged the participants to embrace the emerging technologies to help in their pursuit of these language skills, saying that the world has an enhanced need for enlightened citizens that are both culturally and linguistically prepared to function in today's world.

“The world has become more interdependent and new technologies have allowed us to work in close contact with people across the world. As we embrace this advantage it is very likely that our relationships with various countries will grow, hence the constant demand for us to speak a foreign language,” said Dr. Owino.

Researchers of French and students during the workshop4

Dr. Rose Auma speaking during the event.

The Dean School of Social Sciences (SASS), Dr. Rose Auma noted that French is an area that is constantly growing and its inclusion in the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) has made it gain its importance.

“Our French unit began with one (1) student and gradually grew over the years. In the last three years, with the introduction to CBC, our enrolment of French students as a University has gone up with the smallest class having twenty-two (22) students and the highest with sixty-five (65) students. I therefore take this opportunity to encourage our researchers and teachers to join MMUST for their studies because there is going to be a demand in that area. To our students, the demand out there is more than we can produce. Rise up to the challenge and be the best in the region,” she said.

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Prof. Isidore Kazadi giving his remarks during the event.

The Coordinator of the French Program and Manager of the French Resource Centre, Prof. Isidore Kazadi urged participants to utilize the resources to further research in the French language. The only Professor of French in the entire East Africa region, Prof. Kazadi is keen on the teaching and learning of the language not only in MMUST but in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, DRC Congo and Rwanda.

Researchers of French and students during the workshop7

CoD of Language and Literature Education, Dr. Jairus Omuteche addressing the participants.

The Chairman of Department (CoD) of Language and Literature Education, Dr. Jairus Omuteche pointed out that the workshop will help the researchers to keep teachers of French abreast of what is happening in the field of French. Additionally, he also noted that it will help enhance the teaching of French as a subject in secondary schools.

Further, he echoed Dr. Auma’s sentiments saying that CBC is bringing out the relevance of French as a subject and language. “We look forward to making the study of French and the training of teachers of French a very vibrant activity in the department. We look forward to more forums of this nature that will help expand knowledge and create awareness about French in our midst,” stated Dr. Muteche.

The workshop attracted notable personalities, including; Dr. Clara Bulili, Dr. Joyce Kasili, Dr. David Wanina as well as students pursuing French Language studies. Some of the thesis findings presentations were: ‘Stratégies d'aide à la production orale: cas d'étayage dans l'enseignement du français du tourisme et de l'hôtellerie en milieu universitaire kényan.’ -Dr. David Wanina, ‘Compétences des apprenants Kenyans du FLE à travers leurs productions écrites sous formes de textes injonctifs: cas des recettes et programmes’ -Ms. Veronica Odiala and ‘Continuités et/ou discontinuités des politiques linguistiques relatifs à l'enseignement du FLE (De 1963 à 2017)’.

There was also a presentation by the Chairperson, Kenya Association of Teachers of French Western Kenya- Mr. Emmanuel Namasaka, on . The presentations continue today from 10 am in the French Resource Centre, MMUST.

By Caren Nekesa  and Sheila Ivayo 

MMUST Institute of Indigenous Knowledge and Cultural Studies Participates in the 3rd Kenya National Cultural and Tourism Festival

King Peter Mumia II of Wanga Kingdom (left), Deputy Governor of Kakamega County- H.E Ayub Savula together with other dignitaries during the opening ceremony.

The Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Institute of Indigenous Knowledge and Cultural Studies (IIKCS) is participating in the ongoing 3rd Kenya National Cultural and Tourism Festival which commenced yesterday, 16th March, 2023, and will end tomorrow, 18th March 2023. The three- day festival themed, ‘Embracing Our Culture and Tourism Diversity for Socio-Economic Development’ is taking place at the Bukhungu Stadium. The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai presented on, ‘Leveraging on Traditional Medicine for Improved Health and Livelihoods’.

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The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai making a presentation at the event.

The Deputy-Director, Dr. Lucy Mandillah, made a presentation on the ‘Role of the IIKCS in promoting Cultural Diversity and Development in the 21st Century’ on behalf of the Director, Prof. John Shiundu. During the event, IIKCS served indigenous foods of Western Kenya to the dignitaries. MMUST also utilized the opportunity to market its programs and services. The Marketing Officer, Mr. James Muriithi and Ms. Vivianne Akinyi handled queries regarding careers and admissions at the well-attended event.

The celebrations, graced by King Peter Mumia II of Wanga Kingdom, were earmarked by entertainment such as music and dance from various cultural groups, Tree planting exercise, and Nature walk at the Kakamega Forest Courtesy of Kenya Wildlife Services, as well as a brief visit of the BullFighting Arena.

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The Deputy-Director, IIKCS- Dr. Lucy Mandillah and Costa Rica Ambassador - H.E. Giovanna Valverde Stark during the celebrations.

The festival attracted high personalities in the Kenyan Government including; the Cabinet Secretary (Ministry of Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts)- Hon. Ababu Namwamba, Deputy Governor of Kakamega County- H.E Ayub Savula, the Costa Rica Ambassador - H.E. Giovanna Valverde Stark, Director of Tourism Fund- Mr. Eden Odhiambo, Principal Secretary (State Department for Devolution) - Hon.Teresia Mbaika, Principal Secretary (State Department for Wildlife) - Hon. Sylvia Muhoro, Principal Secretary (State Department for Tourism) – Hon. John Ololtuaa, Director Inter-Governmental Department (Nairobi County)- Ms. Joyce Kinyanjui, Secretary General(Kenya National Commission for UNESCO)- Dr. Evangeline Njoka,  Chief Officer (Culture, Gender)- Ms. Vivian Ayuma, and Chief Officer (Ministry of Industrialization & Tourism Kakamega County)- Mr. Saxon Osore.

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King Peter Mumia II (center), Registrar (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Alice Ndiema (second left) and one of the WECO Founders, Mr. Tom Shivachi serving traditional dishes at the MMUST tent.

The event was marked by presentations on topics including; ‘Enhancing Cultural Diversity for Sustainable Development’‘Role of Youth and sports in Promotion of Cultural Heritage’ by Mr. Kisorio Biwott CECM Department of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services-Laikipia, ‘Wildlife Conservation management in Promotion of Culture, Heritage and Tourism’ by the Kenya Wildlife Services, and ‘the Role of the Media in Preservation of Culture and Promotion of Tourism’ by the Media.

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Traditional foods served by the IIKCS at the festival.

Partners of the festival include; CPF, Tourism Regulatory Authority, National Bank of Kenya, Kakamega County Government, Elgeyo Marakwet County Government, Kenindia, County Government of Bungoma, Fountain Flow, National bank of Kenya, MMUST, KSLH, TFC, Samburu County Government, Cultural council Embassy of Iran, Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya National Commission for UNESCO, Kisumu County Government, Uganda High Commission Nairobi, County Government of Machakos, UNESCO, Kilifi County Government, County Government of Trans Nzoia, Butsotso Council of Elders, Bukura Agricultural College, State Department of Devolution, Ropha Beauty SPA, Tourism fund, Agricultural Society of Kenya, DSchool Robotics, as well as the Kenya Safari Lodges and Hotels.

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Hon. Ayub Savula signing visitors' books in the MMUST tent in the presence of the Registrar (Planning, Research and Innovation)- Prof. Alice Ndiema, IIKCS Deputy Director- Dr. Lucy Mandillah, and Director of Corporate Communications and Marketing- Dr. Lydia Anyonje.

Indeed, this is an expressive way to celebrate glorious heritage, culture, and traditions which helps IIKCS to become more attractive and competitive as an institute to visit, work and invest in. This will play a vital role in the development of the University through the marketing of its programs and services.

By Verna Awuor

Photos by Linet Owuor

MMUST-LFR International Conduct First Responder Training to Community Health Workers to Develop Formal Emergency Medical Services in Kakamega County

Workshop participants at MMUST’s Main Catering Unit.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, in conjunction with LFR International, an affiliate of Michigan University, has conducted a First Responder training to Community Health Workers (CHWs) in an effort to develop official Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Kakamega County. On Tuesday, 14th March, 2023, the University, through the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedic Sciences (SONMAPS), kicked off a four-day training workshop which targeted CHWs from twelve (12) Kakamega Sub-Counties, as well as MMUST staff. The training was facilitated by the Director of Trauma Care at LFR International, Dr. Nathanael Smith.

During the official opening ceremony of the workshop, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai, pointed out that emergency response training is crucial to ensuring that healthcare providers are equipped with skills to effectively handle emergencies. “As a University, we value such training as they are tailored to improve the competence of our staff, students and members of the surrounding community. I am pleased to see that MMUST is teaming up with the County Government of Kakamega, and the University of Michigan, to empower healthcare providers in the region,” said Prof. Mutai, who was representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo.

Workshop participants at MMUSTs Main Catering Unit2

DVC (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai gives his remarks at the MMUST- LFR International Workshop.

“First responder training is very important for not only medical experts to enhance their services, but also for each person to understand what to do in an unexpected situation,” stated the Dean SONMAPS, Mr. John Arudo. Further, Mr. Arudo said that SONMAPS is dedicated to enhancing the quality of health training at MMUST, adding that Malteser International (MI), Germany, has funded the refurbishment and equipment of the University’s high fidelity simulated laboratory.

Dr. Smith, who is also an assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine and Global Health Equity Fellow at Boston University (School of Medicine), enlightened the participants on scene safety, trauma assessment, as well as the Lay First Responder Model. “This training is the first step towards bridging gaps in prehospital emergency trauma care. Our goal at LFR International is to prevent deaths and to minimize complications of trauma patients,” he stated.

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Dr. Nathanael Smith giving a presentation.

The Chairperson, Department of Paramedical Sciences, Dr. Tecla Sum, revealed that in 2021, MMUST and Michigan University used a Prehospital Emergency Trauma Care Assessment Tool (PETCAT) to evaluate the care provision in all major referral hospitals in the 47 Counties of Kenya. “Kakamega County had the lowest PETCAT score of 1.87/10. The study also found that trauma is the leading cause of deaths in Kenya, with an 87.3 mortality rate,” said Dr. Sum, adding that this particular workshop used the Training of Trainers (ToT) Model.

Other members on this project are; LFR International-Dr. Peter G. Delaney and Dr. Zachary J. Eisner; MMUST-Ms. Dinah Okwiri, Mr. Simon Ogana, Ms. Lydia Nyachiro, Ms. Doris Tuitoek and Ms. Lucy Kageha.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has clearly demonstrated its dedication to giving back to the community, by continually imparting knowledge and skills to the residents of Kakamega County and beyond. The partnership between MMUST, the University of Michigan and its affiliates, has so far yielded great results and will undoubtedly improve the state of emergency medical services in Kenya.

By Wangari Wambugu

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

MMUST Set to Collaborate With the County Government of Kakamega in a Bid to Elevate Food Security in the County

The MMUST and County Government of Kakamega teams posing for a group photo.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology on 14th March, 2023, held a meeting with a delegation from the County Government of Kakamega in a bid to elevate food security in the County. This came after the second (2nd) Governor’s Day with the farmers of Kakamega County which saw MMUST’s School of Agriculture, Veterinary Science, and Technology (SAVET) identified as a stakeholder for the provision of training of farmers and extension staff in the County. The meeting held at the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research, and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai’s Office, was geared towards collaborative efforts in addressing sustainable smart farming, food, and nutrition security as well as improved livelihoods. The team then paid a courtesy call to the office of the Vice Chancellor.

The University is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, Cooperatives, Livestock, Veterinary Services, and Fisheries. The discussions, aimed at promoting best farming practices in the County, were based on the following areas of concern; ‘Limited Access to Extension Officers’, ‘Access and Control of Land especially for Grass Root Women and Youth’‘Lack of Representation of Farmers on Key Agricultural Committees’‘Lack of Resources to Convene Farmers in Setting their Priorities’‘Acidic Non- Productive Soils in the County’, and ‘Lack of an Enabling Environment for Farmers to Improve their Livelihood’.

The MMUST and County Government of Kakamega teams posing for a group photo2

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria Thuo speaking during the courtesy call.

Speaking during the event, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria Thuo, who was representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo noted that agriculture is key to people’s welfare. He added that through this initiative, MMUST will improve agricultural production which will serve the University as well as the community.

“I urge the University scholars to tap into such practices to change the lives of the community. We shall involve the County in outreach activities to foster healthy agricultural practices that will benefit both the University and the community,” he stated.

According to Prof. Mutai, such collaborations are key to the development of the County. For this reason, he guaranteed the delegation that the University will work with the County to fulfill the farmers' interest and thus improve livelihoods. He acknowledged that this is one of the ways of utilizing University scholars in the area of Agriculture.

“We are ready for this collaboration. We shall engage our final-year students to help them gain hands-on skills by working with farmers around the University in managing agricultural practices. Let us work together to achieve this,” urged Prof. Mutai. He advocated for a general MOU with the county government and reinstatement of the agribusiness expo to bring farmers together to exchange ideas.

The MMUST and County Government of Kakamega teams posing for a group photo3

Prof. Mutai addressing the participants during the visit.

The delegation from the County Government included; the Director of Agriculture- Mr. Titus Omengo, the Chief Officer of Agriculture- Mr. Bill Silingi, and the Chief Officer of Livestock and Veterinary Services- Dr. George Barack Otieno. Dr. Otieno pointed out that such an initiative empowers farmers enabling their voices to be heard. He revealed that the County Government is committed to integrating MMUST as a hub for experts in the area of applied research which is key to the success of the project.

“We endeavor to address the needs of our farmers. As one of the key indicators of the development agenda, this project will support the provision of food security not only in the county but also in the nation. I believe the partnership shall ensure proper utilization of resources for the development of the County,” said Dr. Otieno.

The MMUST and County Government of Kakamega teams posing for a group photo4

The delegation from the County Government of Kakamega.

The delegation was received by the Dean SAVET, Prof. Jacob Wakhungu, and Lecturer in the Department of Agriculture and Land Use Management, Dr.  Muleke Everlyne Mmbone. Prof. Wakhungu stated that farmers have challenges in getting quality, certified, and disease-free seeds which affects their yields. “It is crucial to engage the farmers in farming practices to enhance their skills in the practice. Working with the county is key to achieving this. Such initiative will enable us to benefit the community in enhancing food security,” he stated.

The partners set to work on this mission are; the County Government of Kakamega, MMUST, MM- Kilimo, Kakamega County Farmers Association (KACOFA), Kakamega Youth Agripreneurs, and Shisuye Community Health Workers.

The MMUST and County Government of Kakamega teams posing for a group photo5

The participants at the DVC Planning, Research and Innovation’s Office.

Certainly, this is a timely venture when farmers are facing challenges emanating from the effects of climate change around the globe. Such integration will ensure improved income and nutrition among the farmers for more efficient use of unused or underused farming resources. The integration also has the potential to counteract the effects of environmental degradation.

 By Verna Awuor

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

MMUST Support Staff Undergo Capacity Building Training on Skills, Retirement and Culture Change for Improved Service Delivery

Participants of the training at the Farm View Hotel, Busia.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) Support Staff underwent capacity building training on skills, retirement, and culture change from 9th to 10th March 2023 at the Farm View Hotel, Busia. The aim of the training was to equip them with the skills and behavior change for improved service delivery at the University. This phase I training organized by the Human Resource Department drew participants working in various sections of the University including Assistant Clerks, Masons, Janitors, Kitchen Attendants, Grounds men, Artisans, and Office Assistants.

The training was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo who appreciated the staff for their hard work and commitment. He urged them to uphold core values such as integrity, professionalism, and collegiality while serving in their respective sections. The Vice-Chancellor stressed decent dressing and office etiquette as key considerations at the workplace.

Participants of the training at the Farm View Hotel Busia2

Front row: The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, and a section of the trainees following presentations of the training.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria Thuo, encouraged the staff to embrace teamwork and be procedural while addressing issues affecting them at work.  He added that time management is key to effective and efficient work outcomes.

In his presentation, ‘Disciplinary Processes and Staff Welfare Issues’, Mr. Josephat Shigogodi who represented the Registrar Administration, pointed out that discipline is the pillar of healthy industrial relations, and that the promotion and maintenance of employee discipline is critical for the smooth functioning of an organization. He emphasized proper service delivery at all cadres of professionalism. In addition, he advised the employees to embrace cultural diversity in the workplace.

According to the Assistant Registrar of Administration, Mr. Gregory Muluta, such training is key to improved performance and knowledge of Human Resources procedures. He noted that the fundamental indicators of positive employee productivity are positive attitude and behavior as well as knowledge of employee rights. Therefore, these are key drivers to effective and efficient work performance as required by the University.

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A section of the training participants.

The participants were trained on various topics including; ‘Organization Culture & Behavior Change’- by Dr. Noel Malanda, ‘Records Management, Planning & Organizing Skills’- by Ms. Ruth Omega, ‘Occupation, Health &Safety’- by Mr. Gregory Lidzanga, ‘Time Management, Stress Management, Counselling Skills & Critical Thinking Skills’- Prof. Kenneth Otieno‘Career Progression, Training &Placement’- Mr. Silas Magonya, ‘Communication Skills and Protocol Etiquette’‘Public Relations and Customer Care Skills’- Dr. Lydia Anyonje‘Team Building Skills’- Ms. Edna Kwamboka and ‘Psychological Planning for retirement and Financial Management’- CPA Jared Rading.

Other notable personalities present were; Ms. Lilian Andeyo, Mr. Kipkemboi Chebii, Mr. Felix Ajuoga, Mr. Douglas Shimonyere, Ms. Linet Tuyia, and Ms. Joyce Afuma.

Indeed, such training minimizes an over-reliance on experts as sources of knowledge, resources, and solutions to issues affecting the University. This discourages dependency relationships, therefore encourages the support staff to take action on local issues among them in order to increase productivity at the workplace.

 By Verna Awuor

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

New Dawn on Kefinco Estate as MMUST and County Police Joint Efforts ‘Birth’ the New Kefinco Police Patrol Base

Vice Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo presents the key to the police post premises to the County Police Commander-Kakamega County, Mr. Joseph Kigen. 

The joint efforts of Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s management and the Kakamega County police have given ‘birth’ to the new Kefinco police patrol base, ushering in a new dawn for the residents of Kefinco estate.  This was evidenced as the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo presented the key to the police post premises to the County Police Commander-Kakamega County, Mr. Joseph Kigen in a colourful ceremony on 13th March 2023 at Kefinco estate.

The establishment of the police patrol base was aimed at curbing insecurity cases among students and members of the community living in Kefinco. The patrol base will be manned by six (6) police officers drawn from the National Police Service, with room for expansion and addition of more officers in the next financial year.

Speaking during the event, Prof. Shibairo noted that peace and security are key in the development of our nation. He thanked the Kakamega County security, under the leadership of Mr. Joseph Kigen, the County Police Commander-Kakamega County, for the good working relationship with the University. 

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Vice Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo interacts with the police during the event

Prof. Shibairo also stated that security is every individual’s responsibility as he challenged the students to understand how to handle matters of sexuality and relationships. He pointed out that love triangles have been a leading cause of insecurity among students. “I urge all our students to refrain from drugs and alcohol abuse. I encourage you to live in residential areas approved by the University as precautionary measures to ensure your security,” he said.   

The Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic and Students Affairs, Prof. Hussein Golicha noted that Kefinco estate accommodates nearly 75% of MMUST’s students who reside outside the University premises. He stated that it has been difficult for the students residing in the area to cope with the rising cases of insecurity as he extended his division’s appreciation to the fact that a solution has been established to curb the insecurity menace.

Additionally, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Administration and Finance - Prof. John Kuria Thuo, shared that he hopes the facility will enhance the security of the students as well as that of the host community. He promised that the University will continue to improve on the facility so that it can handle the required capacity.

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Participants pose for a group photo after the event.

Speaking on behalf of the security personnel, Mr. Joseph Kigen, the Kakamega County Police Commander, thanked the University and the church for working together to see through the construction of the patrol base. He shared his team’s commitment, saying that they will uphold their duties to the people by serving the community, safeguarding their lives and property as well as protecting them against threat and violence.

“We will appreciate the great efforts you have made by ensuring that we do as per our mandate to ensure that safety is provided to all students and members of the public who reside here,” said Mr. Kigen.   

Further, he encouraged the students to report any suspicious incidences or activities for immediate intervention by the police.

Rev. Prof. Willis Otuya commended the Full Gospel Churches of Kenya - Kakamega under the leadership of Bishop John Albert Odinga for the support they have given to the community.  “The church becomes relevant when it is directly talking to issues of community. I am grateful that Full Gospel Churches of Kenya Kakamega has extended a hand in supporting initiatives by security agencies, to offer security to our students and members of this community,” he stated.

On the other hand, Bishop Odinga commended the teams for the joint effort that has brought forth a solution to the community of Kefinco.

“Insecurity has been rampant in our community and it is our prayer that we are going to have the security we have been yearning for. We are going to work together with the officers deployed here, by actively and timely reporting any incidences of insecurity to ensure that we have maximum security in the region,” he noted.  

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The newly elected MMUSO Chairperson, Mr. Benjamin Mutisya (centre) and the Secretary General Ms. Natalie Atieno sharing a moment with the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo.  

It is worth noting that the newly elected MMUSO leaders, the Chairperson, Mr. Benjamin Mutisya, MMUSO Secretary General, Ms. Rose Natalie Atieno and Ms. Teresia Mutisya represented the students at the event. Additionally, the newly established Kefinco Police Patrol Base will be run by Mr. Samson Kandie together with his team to ensure maximum security in the area.   

Present during the event was the University’s security team led by Chief Security Officer, Dr. Julius Mabia, Security Officer, Mr. Benedict Shitera, Mr. Manoah Boniface, MMUST’s estates team, as well as the Office of the Dean of Students. The church was also represented by the Associate Pastor, Mr. Benson Kisiangani. 

By Caren Nekesa, Sheila Ivayo 

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

MMUST Hosts Nation Media Group’s on-location News Broadcast for Kakamega County Edition!!

Dr. Rose Opiyo Mentors Sironga Girls’ Student Council on Prudent Leadership Through Her Agency Dubbed 'ROPAK Consultancies'

Dr. Rose Opiyo addressing the participants.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Senior lecturer- Dr. Rose Opiyo, on 12th March 2023, conducted an intensive mentorship training to the Sironga Girls’ Student Council on prudent leadership at the Sunshine Hotel, Kericho. This was done through her consultancy agency dubbed ‘ROPAK Educational Counselling and Training Consultancy Services’ which offers various services including Academic Counselling, Peer Counselor’s Mentorship, Student Council Leadership Training, Career Coaching as well as Teachers' and Students' Mental/Wellness. This event is part of the community outreach activities and the role of an educator in impacting society.

Dr. Opiyo took the participants through various leadership topics such as Leadership Persona where she urged the student leaders to have a deeper purpose in identifying their source of leadership and to have the essential values that guide their behavior. This enables them to have a balance in responding to the most challenging leadership situations.

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The Sironga Student Council, teachers, and facilitators from MMUST.

While training on ‘Diving Deeper into School Leadership’, Dr. Opiyo stated that the ultimate success of an institution is dependent on the leadership of its executive.

“There are many different types of leaders. There are those who take the lead via verbal communication, whilst others lead by showcasing their skills in person. In order to successfully maintain and lead human capital, you need to develop strong relationships and a positive working culture,” advised Dr. Opiyo.

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Dr. Rose Opiyo awarding a completion certificate to one of the Sironga students’ council.

Similarly, Dr. Opiyo took the participants through a session on Mastering the Art of Leadership. She urged the students’ leaders to apprehend the most crucial virtues in leadership which are key in comprise of empathy, goal-oriented, honesty, humility, selflessness, and responsible. She further challenged the students’ council to have a proper balance of academics and leadership in order to excel.

Dr Opiyo was accompanied by three MMUST students who are her mentees.; Non- Resident Female Representative (Public Relations and Creative Advertising) - Ms. Riziki Yvonne, Mr. Joe Gift, and Ms. Celestine Asen-pursuing Bachelor’s Degrees in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Optometry, and Vision Sciences respectively. In the process of mentoring the young leaders, the trio had an opportunity to learn and sharpen their skills further.

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From right: Dr. Rose Opiyo, Ms. Celestine Asen, Ms. Riziki Yvonne, and Mr. Joe Gift.

This training which saw the one hundred and twenty (120) students undergo a comprehensive mentorship program, provided a good opportunity for the University to market its academic programs. The event was crowned with an award of certificates to all the participants for undergoing leadership training.

By Linet Owuor

MMUST Rugby Team Holds a Meeting With Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic and Student Affairs to Discuss the Welfare of the Team

MMUST Rugby team poses for a group photo after the meeting

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology through the department of sports science hosted a meeting with the MMUST rugby team on 9th   March 2023, in an effort to discuss some of the issues and challenges pertaining to the university’s rugby team. This meeting was coordinated by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Student Affairs Prof Hussein Golicha, and MMUST rugby team Senior coach Dr. Ochieng Ahaya. 

Some of the challenges discussed during the meeting were; budget constraints where the budget for the team seems to be very limited as each player gets Khs. 2000 allowance, unavailability of the gym facility for the team members, improvement of allowances, medication cover for the players, sponsorship, and issues of integrated marketing.

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Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic and Student Affairs Prof Hussein Golicha speaking during the meeting

Speaking at the meeting, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Hussein Golicha expressed his gratitude to the University Management for the support they have accorded the Rugby team.

 “We are proud of this team and I assure you of our support. We appreciate your commitment and hard work that has seen us shine in the Kenya Cup. Let us take this as a turning point and I will make sure that you all get what you deserve,” said Prof. Golicha.

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MMUST Rugby team senior coach Dr. Ochieng Ahaya speaking during the meeting

The MMUST rugby team coach Dr. Ochieng Ahaya addressed the way forward and mentioned good planning; which entails giving the rugby team some insurance, looking for the funds to take the team out, and bringing in the marketing aspect. “This team is focused and our aim is to be visible and become a tool that the University use for marketing. This team is very respected in the country and we are looking forward to the Kenya 7s because we are confident that we are going to do well,” said Dr. Ochieng. 

He further applauded the rugby team for the work well done urging them to stay focused. He noted that the MMUST team is implementing the use of technology such as online sites for more visibility. Additionally, Dr. Ahaya noted that Kabras Sugar Company paid a total amount of 100,000 shillings for five students at Masinde Muliro University who are players in our team.

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Mr. Oscar Waswa addressing issues during the meeting

The  Senior Administrative Assistant, Dean of Students, Mr. Oscar Waswa addressed most issues raised by the team. “So much has been mentioned by the captains and the coaches and most of the issues mentioned are very real. The issues of food have been mentioned and we believe that they shall be addressed.  At an opportune time we shall revisit to see their articles and their purpose so that we are able to address what touches on the team so that we can have the welfare of these students and other MMUST students in order to have a win-win situation for all of us,” said Mr. Oscar.

With such forums, MMUST can look forward to winning more rugby games and being more visible in our country. Indeed, MMUST embracing our rugby team will certainly prosper our dream as a University. 

Sheila Ivayo

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

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