MMUST’s Unique Optometry and Vision Sciences Program Attracts the Attention of Leading Health Practitioners in Kenya
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s unique Optometry and Vision Sciences program has attracted the attention of leading health practitioners in Kenya. On 28th May, 2026, Willow Health Media visited the Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences at MMUST to gain insight into the department’s contribution to eye health training, research, and community service. During the exercise, the Willow Health Media team, which was led by Dr. Mercy Korir, paid a courtesy call to the office of the Vice Chancellor and was received by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Planning Research and Innovation- Prof. Christopher Ngacho.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Ngacho noted that the media plays a critical role of in the society by educating the public through accurate and verified information. ‘MMUST is cognizant of the importance of collaborations between universities and media organizations. Working with Willow Health Media is an apt opportunity not only to market MMUST but also create awareness about important eye- health issues which our Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences champions”, said Prof. Ngacho.
Deputy Vice Chancellor, Planning Research and Innovation- Prof. Christopher Ngacho speaks to Willow Health Media
The Director, Institute of Indigenous Knowledge Cultural Studies and Climate Change- Prof. Josephine Ngaira, who was also in attendance during the courtesy call acknowledged the university’s continued commitment to health programmes and student-centered initiatives, noting that MMUST has consistently invested in projects aimed at improving community health and academic excellence.
Reiterating that media are key in getting critical messages across to the members of the public, CEO and editor-in chief at Willow Health Media -Dr. Mercy Korir expressed her delight in visiting MMUST. She was accompanied by Multimedia Production Manager- Ms. Sara Kamande, Multimedia journalist- Mr. Nathan Ochunge and Videographer Timona Abuna.
The renowned health journalist, formerly of KTN is using her new media outfit to report on the neglected areas of health in the communities in Kenya. “We are here to conduct interviews with the personnel in the department of Optometry and Vision Sciences. Through our storytelling, we translate complex health issues into clear, compelling narratives that warrant attention. We want to work with institutions of higher education to reach communities and get their stories out to funders, enablers and partners. ,” stated Dr. Korir.
Willow Health Media team led by their CEO Dr. Mercy Korir
The Chairman of the Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences-Dr. Julius Rono pointed out that MMUST has continuously trained competent eye health professionals while also working closely with communities to identify visual defects and provide solutions that help prevent blindness. “Eye health remains an important but often overlooked area in society, with many people seeking medical attention only after developing serious complications. Through partnerships with the media, the department hopes to increase public awareness on the importance of regular eye check-ups and early treatment,” revealed Dr. Rono.
The Willow Health Media team utilized their presence in the university to visit the facilities of the Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences. They also interviewed Dr. Alfred Ragot and Dr. Sheila Nangena, who are lecturers teaching and mentoring students in Optometry and Vision Sciences.
The visit by Willow Health Media, a digital oriented organization that focuses on health and science journalism reflects the growing partnership between higher learning institutions and the media in promoting education, research, innovation, and public health awareness in Kenya. As one of the best universities offering academic programs in Optometry and Vision Sciences, we benefit communities more by liaising with non-profit organizations and media oriented enterprises. MMUST is clearly on the frontline in matters of eye health.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Aluoch Rusela Asola
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
