Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), in collaboration with the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC), has embarked on the development of a Pathological Museum to enhance medical education and research. This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening mortuary science training, fostering academic collaboration, and advancing specimen collection for learning purposes. During a meeting held on Friday, 31st January 2023, at the University grounds, the duo officially handed over five pathological specimens, to the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs (DVC ASA), Prof. Hussein Golicha, as the first contribution to the museum. The specimen included endometrial cancer, colon tumour, follicular hyperplasia, abdominal tumour, prostate cancer, hemorrhagic cyst rupture.
Speaking during the event, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs (DVC ASA), Prof. Hussein Golicha, welcomed KMTC to the University, and commended their partnership with MMUST. He emphasized the importance of the Pathological Museum, highlighting its potential to enhance medical training infrastructure at MMUST and across the region. He further encouraged continued specimen collection to support advanced medical studies.
“The Certificate course in Mortuary Science was just the foundation. Today, our Diploma program is fully established, and soon, we will introduce a Bachelor’s Degree program to advance academic and professional growth in this specialized field,” said Prof. Golicha.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs (DVC ASA), Prof. Hussein Golicha receiving specimens from the KMTC team.
Echoing these sentiments, the Dean of the School of Medicine, Dr. Anthony Sifuna, pointed out that MMUST’s Diploma in Mortuary Science is already operational, with 42 students, including 20 who transitioned from the Certificate program. He also confirmed that the University is developing a curriculum for a Bachelor’s Degree in the discipline to ensure a seamless academic progression.
Dr. Sifuna further underscored the significance of the partnership with KMTC, noting that since September 2024, MMUST has been hosting KMTC students at its facilities. He announced that, through this collaboration, the first pathological specimens for the museum had been received, eliminating the need for MMUST students to travel to the University of Nairobi for specimen study. “The resources of the pathological museum will also benefit other medical schools in the region and beyond,” he added.
Participants during the round table discussions.
Director of International Relations and Academic Linkages, Dr. Umulkher Ali, lauded the partnership, describing it as a well-planned initiative aimed at expanding academic and research opportunities. While laboratory experience remains a key focus, she stressed the need to prioritize research and scholarly engagement.
Dr. Vincent Musungu, the Coordinator of the Mortuary Science program at KMTC, commended MMUST’s School of Medicine, under the leadership of Dr. Anthony Sifuna, for its commitment to the collaboration. He acknowledged the enriching learning experience his students have had at MMUST and urged the University to finalize the development of a Bachelor’s Degree in Mortuary Science, which would provide progression opportunities for students currently enrolled in the diploma program.
Notably, the meeting was attended by members of the Morticians and Allied Professional Association of Kenya (MAPAKE), including its leadership. The Chairperson of MAPAKE, Mr. Elkanah Mwinami, an alumnus of MMUST, acknowledged that the skills acquired at MMUST continue to enhance their professional practice. However, he urged MMUST to expedite the development of the degree program to train lecturers who specialize in mortuary science. Mr. Mwinami also expressed appreciation for MMUST’s consistent participation in MAPAKE’s Annual Scientific Conferences. “MMUST has been very supportive of our activities at MAPAKE. We look forward to collaborating on research and publications with the university,” he noted.
A section of participants keenly following the discussions.
It is also worth noting that sourcing of pathological specimens is conducted in strict compliance with the Anatomy Act and the Human Tissue Act, regulations that MMUST adheres to.
Other MAPAKE leaders in attendance included the Vice Chairperson, Catherine Njenga; National Secretary, Felix Odhiambo; Coordinator of Peer Support, Petite Mukami; and MAPAKE Nairobi representative, John Maina. Representing MMUST were, Mr. Patrick Myles, Ms. Doreen Ambetsa, and Ms. Lynn Mukwa.
As the only recognized training institution in Kenya offering a Certificate and Diploma in Mortuary Science, MMUST remains a pioneer in this specialized and often misunderstood field. The ongoing partnership with KMTC is expected to further enhance specimen collection, improve learning experiences, and solidify MMUST as a leader in mortuary science education and research.
By Caren Nekesa
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
