The Vice Chancellor – Prof. Solomon Shibairo and the Chief Executive Director iCare, Mr. John Kariuki sign the MoU.
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) and the iCare Foundation yesterday 29th February, 2024, formalized their commitment through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The signing ceremony, which took place at the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom, brought together key stakeholders from both institutions, including the Vice Chancellor – Prof. Solomon Shibairo and representatives from the iCare Foundation, led by the Chairman Board of Directors – Mr. Justus Washiko. The partnership marks a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the two institutions, setting the stage for renewed and expanded cooperation in various areas of mutual interest. Among the primary objectives is the establishment of MMUST as a Regional Command Centre for Disaster Management and Emergency Response, underscoring the collective commitment to proactive disaster mitigation efforts both locally and regionally.
MMUST-iCare team after the signing of the MoU.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Solomon Shibairo challenged the parties to develop strategies for mitigating potential disasters within the region and beyond. He expressed his best wishes for the success of the partnership and urged both institutions to translate their shared vision into tangible actions, emphasizing the importance of actualizing the collaborative efforts outlined in the MOU.
“I am happy that today, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology and the iCare Foundation are formalizing their commitment to collaborate through the signing of this MoU. As we embark on this journey of proactive disaster management and emergency response, I encourage us to seize this opportunity and make a difference in the lives of those we serve,” he said.
Prof. Solomon Shibairo speaking during the event.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Hussein Golicha noted that the MoU between MMUST and the iCare Foundation, aligns perfectly with the principles of the Competency Based Curriculum. He highlighted the agreement’s ability to offer practical, interdisciplinary, and community-engaged learning experiences as well as the real-world application of knowledge, which he was optimistic will contribute towards preparing students for meaningful participation in the society.
Expressing his satisfaction with the partnership, the Chief Executive Director iCare, Mr. John Kariuki, stated that mitigating disaster risks in Kakamega County will require integrated efforts from diverse stakeholders. He was optimistic that the MoU will positively impact the residents of Kakamega.
Mr. Justus Washiko, Chairman of the Board of Directors at the iCare Foundation, expressed appreciation for the University management’s attendance at the ceremony.
“This relationship between MMUST and the iCare Foundation sets a paradigm shift towards improving disaster risk mitigation, preparedness, response and better bounce-back tactics through training, response and research,” he noted.
Prof. Solomon Shibairo presents a gift to the Chief Executive Director iCare, Mr. John Kariuki.
Similarly, the Dean School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance, Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa, noted that his School has had a close and productive relationship with the iCare Foundation. He pointed out that formalizing the partnership not only strengthens their existing ties, but also opens new avenues for joint initiatives and resource-sharing between the two institutions.
“Today’s MoU cements our commitment to collaborative actions in addressing pressing challenges in disaster management and humanitarian assistance. I believe that together, we are better equipped to leverage our respective expertise and resources to make an impact in disaster-prone regions and enhance our collective capacity for effective emergency response,” he stated.
The Dean School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance, Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa making his remarks.
Dr. Emily Wamalwa, who doubles up as a lecturer at MMUST’s Department of Biological Sciences and the Director Corporate Partnership at iCare, expressed optimism about iCare’s role in enhancing the connection between the University and the community. She highlighted iCare’s various community engagement programs, emphasizing the mutual benefit that will arise from the partnership. “This collaboration is particularly valuable for enhancing the University’s community outreach efforts, while also providing iCare with a platform to amplify the impact of its research within the communities,” Dr. Wamalwa explained. She further noted that iCare’s networks will supplement the resources available to the University, strengthening their collective ability to serve the community effectively.
Under the terms of the MOU, MMUST and the iCare Foundation have agreed to collaborate on several key initiatives including research, training, disaster management and response, industrial attachment, and certification.
A section of iCare Foundation members during the event.
Notable persons present from MMUST included Prof. Pontian Godfrey Okoth, Dr. Edwin Kanda, Dr. Betty Opilo, Rev. Dr. Elijah Odhiambo, and Dr. Edward Mugalavai. MMUST student representatives Mr. Kimutai Elias and Ms. Caroline Kimamo also attended the event. The iCare team, who were also present at the event included Mr. Moses Wanyama, Mr. Lordstar Kariuki, Ms. Sarah Serengo.
As MMUST and the iCare Foundation embark on this journey of partnership and collaboration, they are poised to make significant strides in disaster preparedness, response, and management, ultimately contributing to the safety and resilience of communities within the region. This collaborative endeavor stands as a testament to the transformative power of strategic partnerships in addressing pressing societal challenges and fostering sustainable development.
By Caren Nekesa
Photos by Linet Owuor
