MMUST and Malteser International staff pose for a group photo at the Vice Chancellor’s office.
Preparations at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology are in top gear ahead of refurbishing and equipping the University’s high fidelity simulated laboratory, funded by Malteser International (MI), Germany. A team from MI-Kenya, led by the Health Program Manager, Ms. Joy China, who is also a key driver of the MMUST-MI collaboration, visited the University from 9th November to 10th November, 2022 to discuss the modalities of the project.
“As a University, we are grateful for this project because it will not only enhance the quality of health training at MMUST, but also make the us the major training hub for emergency professionals in Kenya,” stated the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo. Prof. Shibairo commended MI and the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedic Sciences (SONMAPS) for involving other MMUST Schools and Departments in this project.
A section of the participants during the MMUST-MI meeting with the Vice Chancellor.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai, echoed that the project will have a significant impact on MMUST’s health programmes. “The University Management is committed to ensuring that this project is realized. I am glad that Malteser International is willing to go an extra step to facilitate some of our staff to train in Germany on handling these equipment,” added Prof. Mutai.
The Project President at MMUST, Dr. Tecla Sum, reiterated that refurbishing and equipping the MMUST’s skills lab will transform teaching and learning at the University, as well as improve emergency medical training and services. “MMUST and Malteser International have had a partnership for about three (3) years now and I am happy that the relationship is producing great results,” said the trauma and emergency medicine expert.
Dr. Tecla Sum gives her remarks during the MMUST-MI meeting with the Vice Chancellor.
While discussing the timeline of the project, Ms. China pointed out that MI is a humanitarian organization that seeks to strengthen already available systems. “MMUST and Malteser International are teaming up to refurbish and equip the skills lab, under the Upesi Health Project, to support and enhance the training of emergency experts,” said Ms. China, adding that plans are underway to advertise the tender for supply of the expected equipment.
“We are ready to cooperate with the Malteser International team and look into the best ways to ensure that this project is actualized,” said the MMUST Procurement Officer, Ms. Scarlet Kavaya.
The project’s architect, Mr. Ayara Austine, explains the architectural design.
A presentation prepared by Neo Designs Architects Limited, showed details of the architectural design as well as the scope of the work. “The work will include flooring, plumbing, electrical fitting and installation, and window proofing,” stated the architect, Mr. Ayara Austine.
Efforts to refurbish and equip the University’s simulation centre is evidence that MMUST and Malteser International are determined to transform emergency medical training and services in Kenya. Without doubt the duo’s collaboration on the ‘Upesi Health Project’ will yield many fruits, which will give the country’s health sector a much-needed transformation.'
Photos by Wilberforce Shiundu
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