Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) held a one-day workshop to address three critical social challenges affecting its community, HIV, Sexual Abuse, and Early Pregnancies. The workshop was held on February 20th 2025, at the Diamond Rock Resort, in Kakamega.
The theme of the workshop was “Enhancing Data Collection Skills for Effective Research on the Triple Threat (HIV, Sexual Abuse, and Early Pregnancies).” Forty students from various schools in the University participated in the specialized research training workshop which focused on HIV, sexual abuse, and early pregnancies, collectively known as the "Triple Threat."
The Director, AIDS Control, Gender, and Disability Mainstreaming Prof. Benedict Ondiek Alala following presentations during the workshop
This workshop was organized by the Directorate of AIDS Control, Gender, and Disability Mainstreaming under the leadership of Prof. Benedict Ondiek Alala. The training equipped students with data collection skills essential for conducting community-based research on these sensitive issues.
"Accurate data is the foundation of effective intervention programs," said Prof. Benedict Ondiek Alala, Director of AIDS Control, Gender, and Disability Mainstreaming at MMUST. "We need our students to be at the forefront of gathering reliable information that will shape our policies. This workshop has given them the confidence to conduct meaningful research in our community. Understanding how to handle sensitive data ethically is crucial for our research." He added.
Dr. Roseline Abwalaba addressing workshop participants
Prof. Alala further commended the participants for their commitment to addressing the Triple Threat, highlighting the role of accurate data in informing policy and intervention programs. He encouraged students to actively engage in research and advocacy efforts that contribute to meaningful change in the MMUST community and beyond.
The workshop featured expert-led sessions covering; Understanding the Triple Threat & Research Ethics – Exploring the interconnected challenges of HIV, sexual abuse, and early pregnancies while emphasizing ethical considerations in data collection and Data Quality Control & Management – Ensuring accuracy, reliability, and validity in data handling and analysis by Dr. Roseline Abwalaba, Research Methodology & Data Collection Tools – Equipping students with the necessary techniques for effective research design and data gathering, by Victor Dinda and Fieldwork Logistics & Safety – Preparing students for ethical and secure data collection in community-based research settings by Mr. Canon Odhiambo
The university plans to expand this initiative by offering additional training sessions and supporting student-led research projects. These efforts aim to develop evidence-based solutions for addressing HIV, sexual abuse, and early pregnancies within the MMUST community.
Mr. Victor Dinda making his presentation during the workshop
The workshop's success marks a significant step in MMUST's commitment to addressing social challenges through research-driven approaches. Mr. Victor Dinda, emphasized that future sessions would focus on translating research findings into actionable community interventions.
For more information about MMUST's initiatives against the Triple Threat, contact the Directorate of AIDS Control, Gender, and Disability Mainstreaming.
A section of workshop participants following presentations
