MMUST Trains AIDS Control Committee Members To Strengthen Fight Against HIV/AIDS And Mental Health Challenges

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has intensified its efforts to tackle pressing health concerns by training members of its AIDS Control Committee (ACU) to champion the fight against HIV/AIDS, Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), and mental health challenges. The two-day capacity-building workshop, which kicked off today, 11^th September 2025, and is set to end on 12^th September, 2025, has been organized by the Directorate of AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming (DACGDM), led by Prof. Benedict Alala. The workshop seeks to equip the committee members with practical tools for policy implementation, sensitization, and resource mobilization. It is taking place at Sirikwa Hotel in Eldoret.

Speaking during the workshop, the Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Peter Bukhala, noted that as a University, we are highly aware that HIV and AIDS are not only health issues but also developmental concerns that touch on education, productivity, and the future of our nation. Therefore, we have deliberately placed the fight against HIV and AIDS at the center of our institutional priorities.

The Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Peter Bukhala, makes his keynote address during the opening of the workshop.

Further, Prof. Bukhala challenged the committee to move beyond traditional approaches such as condom distribution and routine student counselling. He urged them to identify, document, and provide practical interventions for students and staff affected by HIV/AIDS and related conditions, stressing the need for evidence-based strategies.

“The University expects this committee to utilize research as a foundation for its interventions. Data-driven solutions will enable MMUST to provide sustainable and targeted support to those in need,” emphasized Prof. Bukhala.

The DVC PRI, the Registrar (Planning, Research and Innovation)- Dr. Collins Matemba addresses participants at the workshop.

Reiterating the DVC PRI, the Registrar (Planning, Research and Innovation)- Dr. Collins Matemba lauded the workshop as a critical step towards strengthening the University’s institutional response to health challenges. He pointed out that aligning DACGDM operations with policies is essential in creating an inclusive, supportive, and stigma-free environment within the University.

One of the facilitators from NSDCC, Ms. Lucy Okatch during the workshop.

The workshop is facilitated by an expert from the National Syndemic Disease Control Council (NSDCC)-Ms. Lucy Okatch who delivered an insightful presentation on the evolving landscape of HIV/AIDS management and the importance of integrating mental health and NCDs into institutional health strategies.

The other presenters during day one of the workshop included Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda– ‘Terms of Reference and the role of ACU Committee Members’, Mr. Felix Ambuche- ‘Overview on NCDs, HIV/AIDS and STI in MMUST’ as well as Dr. Victor Dinda– ‘The Overview of DACGDM activities.’ TheDeputy Director of the Directorate of Gender, AIDS Control, and Disability Mainstreaming Unit- Dr. Reuben Rutto stressed that the fight against HIV/AIDS and mental health challenges requires consistent commitment, collaboration, and advocacy, adding that every committee member has a responsibility to translate policy into practice at the grassroots level of the University.

A section of the participants following the workshop presentations.

Undoubtedly, the fight against HIV/AIDS can no longer be addressed in isolation. This workshop underscores MMUST’s determination to go beyond awareness creation and traditional approaches to adopting a research-driven tactic in addressing HIV/AIDS and mental health challenges.