MMUST Leads Five-University Consortium to Advance Medical Physics in Kenya
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has taken a leading role in a partnership set to transform healthcare education in Kenya. On 12th February 2026, MMUST officially joined forces with Meru University of Science and Technology, Kabarak University, Chuka University, and Pwani University to launch the Kenya Universities Consortium for Medical Physics Teaching and Training (KUC-MPTT). This strategic alliance, comprised of five institutions currently offering MSc Medical Physics programmes, aims to strengthen postgraduate education, research, and standardize professional training in Medical Physics in Kenya. The initiative is supported by the Association of Medical Physicists of Kenya (AMPKen) alongside international partners, including Canada’s Academics Without Borders (AWB) and Medical Physics for World Benefit (MPWB).
The virtual launch was a high-profile event, bringing together Vice Chancellors, Deputy Vice Chancellors, Deans and departmental heads, and leading academics from all member institutions. Key international figures, including Mr. Corrie Young (Associate Executive Director-AWB) and Prof. L. John Schreiner (MPWB), also participated to signal their global support. MMUST holds a prestigious position within the collective as the lead coordinating university. The consortium is currently Chaired by MMUST’s own, Dr. Maxwell J. Mageto who serves as the Interim Chair.
Speaking during the launch, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo noted that the Consortium provides a strategic platform for sharing expertise. “These efforts will enhance the quality and sustainability of Medical Physics training and contribute to improved healthcare service delivery nationwide,” said Prof. Shibairo.
While providing an overview of the consortium, he highlighted some of the expected outcomes of the consortium including the operationalization of consortium structures, standardized curricula, and improved collaboration among universities and partners. He noted the launch marks the formal integration of the universities following the signing of a collaborative agreement. Over the next three months, the group plans to establish permanent governance structures and begin joint academic activities.
Dr. Maxwell Mageto, outlined the immediate next steps, which include harmonizing curriculum, hosting a major stakeholder meeting in Kakamega, launching specialized training for lecturers, and establishing state-of-the-art medical physics laboratories with input from other technical experts.
Dr. Maxwell Mageto.
Medical Physics is essential to modern medicine, playing a critical role in diagnostic imaging, radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, and radiation safety. Through this partnership, the member universities reaffirm their commitment to producing highly skilled Medical Physicists who meet both national and international standards.
The event, moderated by Registrar of Academic Affairs Prof. Judah Ndiku, concluded with strong endorsements from all participating Vice Chancellors, signaling a unified path forward for the future of medical science in Kenya.
The successful launch was the culmination of tireless coordination by a dedicated committee, including Dr. Maxwell Mageto, Dr. Daniel Memeu Mateithia (MUST), Prof. Christopher Maghanga (KABU), Dr. Fanuel Keheze (PU), Dr. Martin Mutie (CU), and Dr. Victor Odari, Dr. Henry Barasa, and Dr. Francis Gaitho from MMUST.
By Caren Nekesa
