Rev. Prof. Judith Achoka, addressing students of St. Mary Goretti Shikoti Girls Secondary School during the career mentorship outreach
MMUST’s renowned scholar and educationist, Rev. Prof. Judith Achoka, while addressing students of St. Mary Goretti Shikoti Girls Secondary School during a career mentorship outreach, stressed on the fact that education is the most important weapon any girl should have in order to live in the world of today. The event, which took place on 23rd June, 2023, comes amidst the highly rising cases of early pregnancies among school going girls in Kenya. It was aimed at reminding the young girls about who they are, the opportunities that they have in the field of Biological Sciences and beyond, to succeed despite where they have come from and the barriers they have faced. The initiative was organized by the Department of Biological Sciences under the School of Natural Sciences.
In her address, Rev. Prof. Achoka stated that it is the expectation of the Government of Kenya and educationists, that the young generation will be well educated in order for them to contribute fruitfully to their personal development, their country’s development as well as the world.
“The Government of Kenya and educationists in particular are working hard to ensure that girls are well educated. This is because we recognize that teenage girls have more developmental challenges compared to boys. We are very concerned, and we believe that girls from ages 10-24 should be well guarded, educated and trained in order for them to contribute to their well-being, their country’s and the world,” said Rev. Prof. Achoka.
A section of the students during the event
Notably, she revealed that research indicates that teenage pregnancy rates have reached a crisis level. She called on every stakeholder including leaders to join in the fight of the menace.
“Research indicates that one out of every five teenage girls between age ten (10) and nineteen (19) in Kenya either have a baby or are pregnant,” she shared, adding that it is as a result of this that Kenya is ranked number three world wide in teenage pregnancies.
Reiterating, Prof. Kubasu Kwashe appreciated the initiative stressing that it is important to prioritize the children’s well-being and holistic development to ensure that they have the knowledge, skills, and support needed to make informed decisions regarding their sexual health and relationships. Further, he discouraged the girls from engaging in early sexual activities saying that it exposes them to various health risks, emotional and psychological stress, disruption of education, social stigma and strained interpersonal relationships.
“Excelling in your performance requires a change in attitude. Have a positive and proactive mindset, work hard, cultivate in you a growth mindset, commit and be disciplined in everything that you do,” he added.
Prof. Kubasu Kwashe engaging the students at the event.
Speaking to the students, the Chairperson of the Department of Biological Sciences, Dr. Philip Ogutu advised them to build strong virtues that will help them to navigate the complexities of life and allow them to make ethical decisions that will contribute meaningfully to society. He also encouraged them to work hard and excel in their examinations, adding that achieving the two will pave a way for their personal growth and success.
Dr. Humphrey Agevi, a lecturer and researcher in the department, took the students through the programmes offered in MMUST. He noted that all courses matter and advised the students to follow their passions as they apply for courses to pursue in their higher education.
“To pursue a Science-based programme, you must do well in your sciences. To join us in the Department of Biological Sciences, you need to score a mean grade of C+ in Biology, C+ in Mathematics and a C+ in chemistry,” said Dr. Agevi. Additionally, he took the students through the prospective careers upon studying Biology, affirming them that they can be whatever they want to be if they excel.
The CoD of Biological Sciences, Dr. Philip Ogutu planting a tree during the event.
Dr. Mario Kollenberg, a Microbiologist at MMUST assured the students of the availability of resources such as the research infrastructures, facilities, technologies and the pool of experts-human resource that will support their study and research work as they pursue their studies at the University.
“Joining the Department of Biological Sciences at MMUST, you will have the opportunity to experience practical learning, which will expose you to a holistic and immersive educational experience that will promote a deeper understanding of scientific concepts, critical thinking, and a passion for scientific inquiry. Besides this, you will have the best foundation that will influence your future scientific pursuits and continue to nurture your skills that will always be valuable for your personal and professional development,” said Dr. Mario.
In support of the advocacies towards restoring the environment, the team educated the students about the benefits of trees and environmental conservation and later on engaged in a tree planting exercise with them.
The Shikoti Girls girl-guides pose for a photo before the tree planting activity.
“It is very encouraging to see our girls being educated on various issues. It is true that the statistics of early teenage pregnancies is alarming and it is relieving to see MMUST taking action and guiding the teenagers,” he said. KANFOCC donated 10 indigenous fruit trees of pawpaw, guava, passion and avocado
The Director of Studies, Shikoti Girls, Mr. Leonard Luseno who was representing the principal thanked the University for holding the initiative at their school.
“We appreciate the session you have had with our girls. The topics were informative and timely since they will be going home for their half term break. Thank you for the donations and we look forward to working with you and our students joining MMUST,” he said.
Teachers of Shikoti Girls together with Prof. Kubasu Kwashe during the tree planting activity at Shikoti Girls.
MMUST believes that mentoring young girls is essential in fostering the success of the next generation, and critical to creating gender equity in Kenya and beyond.
By: Caren Nekesa and Sylvia Shibutuli
Photos by: Caren Nekesa
