MMUST’s Dr. David Barasa Project Wins £30,000 Grant From the British Academy!!

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Dr. David Barasa is among the three (3) scholars whose project has won a £30,000 grant from the British Academy. The other team members are Prof. Lutz Marten (SOAS University of London) and Dr. Hannah Gibson (University of Essex).

 The title of the project is ‘De-Centering Knowledge and Training Opportunities Supporting the Development of the Next Generation of Researchers in African Linguistics’. It builds on the successful previous Writing Workshop project entitled ‘Eroding dichotomies: description, analysis and publishing in African linguistics’ which was held in Stellenbosch, South Africa in 2022. It provides an opportunity for early career researchers from across Eastern and Southern Africa to work with experienced editors on the preparation of high-quality outputs, improve their writing skills and strengthen scholarly networks.

MMUST Researcher- Dr. David Barasa (second right) together with other participants during the Initial British Writing Workshop at Stellenbosch, South Africa, September 2022.

Dr. Barasa is a Senior Lecturer, and Coordinator of Research and Publications at MMUST’s Department of Language and Literature Education (LLE). Notably, he is among the leading researchers in the School of Arts and Social Sciences who are well published in the area of Linguistics and Communication Studies. We congratulate him for once again placing MMUST on the global map!

For more information about the project, please click on this link: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/projects/de-centering-knowledge-and-training-opportunities-supporting-the-development-of-the-next-generation-of-researchers-in-african-linguistics/

MMUST Champions Implementation of Geographic Information System in Disaster Management for National Development

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha (seated far right), beside him, the Ambassador- (ESRI) Eastern Africa, Dr. Nashon Adero, and staff from MMUST.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has championed the implementation of a Geographic Information System (GIS) in disaster management for national development. This was evident on 26^th April,2023, when the Ambassador, of Environmental Systems Research Institute Eastern Africa (ESRI) Eastern Africa, Dr. Nashon Adero, paid a courtesy call to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha. The visit was aimed at creating an instrument for initiating various collaborative activities for the mutual benefit of the two institutions in training, research, and innovation. The collaboration is steered by the Dean, of the School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA), Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa.

Speaking during the visit, Prof. Golicha who was representing the Vice-Chancellor pointed out that GIS is an important technology that will impact many projects in the University. He assured that the University Management is keen to support the GIS initiative. “GIS nurtures spatial thinking skills and is a key technology to help students develop analytical and problem-solving skills. It provides students with tools to develop a better understanding of the world” he said.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha and Ambassador- (ESRI) Eastern Africa, Dr. Nashon Adero shaking hands.

Reiterating Prof. Golicha’s sentiments, the Director, Postgraduate Studies- Prof. Stephen Odebero, (Representing the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Planning, Research, and Innovation) acknowledged that with such collaborations, we look forward to becoming experts in geospatial technology. He urged disaster management experts to tap into this technology to leverage traditional-based technologies.

According to Dr. Adero, this collaboration will strengthen the efforts of MMUST and ESRI to stimulate collaborative consultancies, strengthen training, and support development initiatives. He added that this will instigate projects in the application of GIS to relevant research topics.

“GIS knowledge should be promoted through academic education in developing countries. This helps in sharing, networking, and promoting GIS uptake in predicting and averting disasters. We shall allow the University to use the ESRI ArcGIS software, remote sensing software, and mapping GP units for comprehensive and effective instructional and research purposes,” stated Dr. Adero. He emphasized the requirement to carry out a needs assessment and submit a report.

The Dean, School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA), Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa (speaking), beside him- Prof. Silvery Oteng’i, and DVC/ASA- Prof. Hussein Golicha.

Expressing his delight, Dr. Nabiswa noted that this is the first step to the implementation of the MOU and hinted that MMUST is committed to becoming the best in GIS technology. He appreciated the University Management for approving their request to equip the GIS lab adding that this will upgrade the technological prowess of students.

“We are conducting a needs assessment to identify the gaps for equipping the MMUST GIS lab. ESRI will provide the University with free software for three (3) years. I urge the University Management to implement the comprehensive report that the Ambassador is set to deliver after the needs assessment,” said Dr. Nabiswa.

A section of the participants during the courtesy call.

Notably, other staff from SDHMA who were present included; Prof. Silvery Oteng’i, Dr. Veronica Kiluva, Dr. Edward Mugalavai, Dr. Saidi Fwamba, and Ms. Betty Opillo. The Coordinator, Webometrics and Short Courses- Dr. Dennis Ochieno was also in attendance.

Certainly, the entrenchment of GIS and remote sensing in the curriculum will equip our students with skills to generate development models for more accurate monitoring and decision-making. It is an important technology detecting environmental and structural changes in various sites, to create safe and sustainable projections.

By Linet Owuor and Verna Awuor 

Photos by Mary Wangari Wambugu

Researchers Step Up Efforts to Enlighten Ikolomani Community on Safe Gold Mining Activities

MMUST team with the Ikolomani Sub-county security team, including Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs after a meeting at the DCC’s office

Researchers from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology led by Prof. Peter Bukhala and Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda held a consultative meeting with stakeholders from Ikolomani Constituency to help the community in curbing the effects of artisanal gold mining on education, environment and human health in Ikolomani Sub-county. The meeting was held at the office of the Ikolomani Deputy County Commissioner’s office and attended by Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs from the region.

Speaking during the meeting, the Deputy County Commissioner (DCC), Mr. Geoffrey Mayama welcomed the University research team and applauded them for the initiative, terming it as a timely intervention that will help the Ikolomani community to professionally get involved in gold mining activities. Prof. Bukhala, who also hails from the region, urged the administrators and their families to take advantage of the availability of the University and pursue further studies, saying that education is the only way to change the lives of members of the community.  He further said that MMUST has a number of scholarships that can help needy students within the region to further their studies. One of the scholarships is the talent scholarship, meant to help needy but talented students study as they represent the University in sporting activities.

 Prof. Peter Bukhala gifts the Ikolomani Deputy County Commissioner a MMUST shirt. Looking on are Dr. Joseph Owino and Dr. Christine Wanjala.

The research Principal Investigator (PI) Prof. Elizabeth Omukunda stressed on the need for key stakeholders in the community like Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs, Members of County Assembly (MCA)and Members of Parliament from the region to work with the University researchers.  This will enable them to share their views on how the gold miners’ lives can be safeguarded. She alluded to the fact that many people have lost their lives in the gold mines due to insecure approach to mining activities and the use of wrong tools. Prof. Omukunda is also an Associate Dean at the School of Natural Sciences in MMUST.

Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs from Ikolomani Sub-County giving views on gold mining to MMUST researchers.

Other members of the MMUST team present during the meeting were: The Dean School of Natural Sciences, Dr. Joseph Owino, the Chairperson Department of Optometry and Vision Science, Dr. Christine Wanjala, the Chairperson Department of Economics from the School of Business Dr. Umulkher Ali, Chairperson, Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering, Dr. Peter Cherop, the Chairperson, Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology Dr. Iddah Maulid, the Chairperson, Department of Education Planning and Management, from the School of Education, Dr. Pamela Buhere, and Peter Nyongesa from the Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine.

MMUST team, led by Prof. Bukhala present a University branded umbrellathe to the Ikolomani DCC with  during a visit to his office.

By: Wilberforce Shiundu

MMUST School of Nursing, Midwifery & Paramedical Sciences and University of Southern Denmark Deliberate on Possible Areas of Collaboration in Global Health

Participants of the joint meeting.

In a bid to promote the health promotion agenda, fruitful deliberations between the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedical Sciences (SONMAPS), and the University of Southern Denmark have highlighted global health as an area for collaboration between the two institutions. This was evident during the extensive discussions which took place on Wednesday 19^th April 2023. The deliberation was steered by led by the Chairperson, Department of Nursing Research and Education- Dr. Damaris Ochanda (MMUST), and Prof. Leena E. Karlsson (University of Southern Denmark).

Prof. Leena E. Karlsson, who is an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Southern Denmark said that the institution uses an interdisciplinary approach, on the premise that health promotion has a structural dimension. She acknowledged the dire need for more of their programs to be administered in English, highlighting this as an opportunity for collaboration between the two institutions. Prof. Karlsson added that the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) has a thriving academic environment for student and faculty exchange programs. According to the senior researcher, there is a need in the future to maintain and strengthen international collaboration in order to ensure health promotion globally. 

A section of the participants following the meeting proceedings.

Prof. Lt. Col. (Rtd) J. Okoth said that MMUST School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedical Sciences (SONMAPS), through the Department of Community Health and Extension, houses the Global Health and Travel Medicine program, which presents a focal possible area of collaboration, especially in matters research.

“In the spirit of internationalization, we appreciate opportunities like this, to interact with the outside world and learn new trends in healthcare, education, and more. We are looking forward to collaborative research, twin programs, staff, and student exchange programs,” said Prof.Okoth.

Speaking during the deliberations, the Dean School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Paramedical Sciences, Mr. John Arudo, said that the school is looking forward to a Memorandum of Understanding between the two universities. Dr. Damaris Ochanda emphasized that both faculty and students in the School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Paramedical Sciences are involved in extensive research.

Members of SONMAPS and the University of Southern Denmark following the presentations.

“There is a lot that we can learn from each other through faculty and student exchange programs,” said Dr. Ochanda.

The School is in the process of mounting a master's program Global which will give students an opportunity to progress in their careers. MMUST is the only University in Kenya currently offering a Bachelor of Science in Global Health and Travel Medicine.

The Chairperson, of the Department of Community Health and Extension, Dr. Gregory Sakwa, said that Global Health and Travel Medicine is a fairly new program in Kenya that is geared towards improving health care.

Other notable participants present during the deliberations included Dr. Everlyne Morema, Mr. Peter Okoyo, Mr. Roaler Karlsson, Mrs. Milka Ogayo, Mr. Victor Mukaka, and Ms. Sandra Awuor.

Evidently, with more Universities embracing multidisciplinary research and international collaborations such as this, the global scope for sustainable development in research and education has expanded and MMUST is right at the center of it.

By Awuor Sandra Dorcas

MMUST Stamps Its Authority in the Eldoret Kusa Games, Effectively Dominating the Sports Sector in the Country

A section of the trophies received by MMUST from the just concluded KUSA games.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has stamped its authority by effectively dominating the sports sector in the Country. In the recent games hosted by the University of Eldoret on 1^st April, 2023, MMUST achieved position two (2) overall during the final match of the Kenya Universities Sports Association (KUSA) Games. The most spectacular performances were by Handball Women against JKUAT (24-20), and Soccer Women against Kisii University (5-4), which recorded position one in the respective categories.

Hockey Men and Women's teams garnered position two against Strathmore University, both scoring 1-0, while Handball Men emerged in position three (3) after the University of Eldoret (UOE) 19-15. MMUST crushed Strathmore University 22-19 in the playoff to gain position three. The University received a total of five (5) trophies from the just concluded games. The notable awards received include; two (2) gold for position 1, two (2) silver for position 2, and one (1) bronze for position 3.

MMUST Volleyball Women team competing in the KUSA Western Conference Games.

Prior to this, MMUST competed against nine Universities in the KUSA Western Conference Games and attained position one in all games. The Universities included; Kibabii, Kaimosi Friends University, Maseno University, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), Great Lakes University of Kisumu (GLUK), Kisii University, Rongo University, Tom Mboya University, and Kabianga University.

The ten teams that MMUST presented for the KUSA Western Conference Games were; Soccer Women, Hockey Men, Hockey Women, Handball Men, Handball Women, Volleyball Men, Volleyball Women, Basketball Women, Netball Women, and Netball Men. The KUSA Western Conference Games brings together the best two (2) teams in every sports conference.

In addition, MMUST participated in the East Africa Inter-University Women Games at United States International University Africa (USIU) during the Easter weekend. The MMUST teams competed in Chess and Scrabble games, attaining position one in both games.

MMUST Coach, Shisoka Akaka (center) together with Chess and Scrabble teams.

The players of the Chess team were; Prudence Mwangi, Brenda Gwadoya, Everlyne Wambui, and Dorica Nyanchama. The Scrabble team included; Natalie Atieno (The 6^th MMUSO Secretary General), Nichole Achan (Top in East Africa- University Level), Grace Muthoni, and Mercy Akinyi.

This exemplary performance by the MMUST teams is as a result of the expertise and commitment of the MMUST sports coaches; Ms. Selphine Muyonga, Mr. Shisoka Akaka, and Mr. Geoffrey Barasa from the office of the Dean of Students which is headed by Dr. Bernadette Abwao.

Clearly, the sports sector is committed to flying the flag of the University higher as it increases its chances of attracting talented students to study at the University. Moreover, such performance encourages students to participate in co-curricular activities which help them achieve their academic goals as well.

By Verna Awuor

MMUST Deliberates on Possible Areas of Collaboration With the Kenya Red Cross Society Courtesy of Memorandum of Understanding

MMUST team together with the Kenya Red Cross Society team after the meeting.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), has today 4^th April 2023, held discussions with the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) on the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding that was signed on 23^rd May 2022. The delegation led by Dr. Michael Aiyabei (Head of Disaster Management-KRCS), paid a courtesy call to the office of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research, and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai.

Speaking during the courtesy call, Prof. Mutai urged the delegation to work with the University to serve humanity.  He added that through this collaboration, MMUST looks forward to establishing a Center of Humanitarian Assistance.

“This partnership will synergize efforts to stimulate scientific cooperation and strengthen research in humanitarian assistance for sustainable livelihoods. As a University, we are the pioneers of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance, and we are well positioned to offer the expertise required,” said Prof. Mutai.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research, and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai (right) receiving a notebook from the Coordinator, Training & Capacity Building (KRCS)- Ms. Monica Orero.

Concurring with Prof. Mutai, the representative of the Director- International Relations and Academic Linkages, Dr. Rose Opiyo encouraged the team to come together and network on the strengths and capacities, share available resources, as well as complement existing expertise for a more effective partnership.

Dr. Aiyabei highlighted some of the key objectives of the MOU which include; undertaking joint emergency response practical to activate response units by KRCS and the School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA); promoting professionalism through the exchange of experience; enhancing professional skills of the two institutions through training; joint research and technological developments; capacity building and conduct joint supervision of students on attachments disaster experts from both institutions.

The Head of Disaster Management-KRCS, Dr. Michael Aiyabei planting a tree at MMUST.

The other notable personalities present during the meeting included the patron Kenya Red Cross Society (MMUST Chapter)- Dr. Nicodemus Nyandiko, Dr. Nicholas Ombachi (Representing Dean SDMHA), Dr. Edward Mugalavai, Ms. Lydia Nyachiro from MMUST. Similarly, the other individuals drawn from the KRCS were Ms. Euphresia Musundi, Ms. Margaret Wanyonyi, Ms. Hellen Cheruto, Ms. Esther Chege, Ms. Monica Orero, Ms. Serah Lekalkuli, and Ms. Ruth Miningwo.

With such collaborations involving experts on board, the vulnerability of organizations and societies towards potential disasters is well mitigated. 

By Linet Owuor

Photos by Wangari Wambugu

MMUST Final Year Students Pursuing Engineering Take Innovations a Notch Higher During the First Annual Engineering Projects Exhibition

A section of the projects showcased by the students.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s (MMUST) Final Year students pursuing Engineering have taken innovations a notch higher during the First Annual Engineering Projects Exhibition which took place on 31^st March, 2023. The event organized by the MMUST Engineering Students Association (ESA), was geared towards recognizing the efforts of engineers in the University. This was marked by a tree planting exercise, projects exhibition, and a Dinner which were presided over by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo at the Main Catering Unit (MCU) 001.

Applauding the students, Prof. Shibairo noted that engineering is one of the flagship programs in the University which started during the establishment of the institution; Western college (WECO). He acknowledged the upcoming TVET and Engineering Complex and challenged the engineers to take up the place and elevate engineering. “I am impressed with the innovative ideas of our students. Let us scale up what we have and spur in this area of professionalism” he urged.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo at the tent where the 5^th year students pursuing Mechanical and Industrial Engineering; Ms. Jackline Otieno (left) and Ms. Peres Agina showcasing their project (Semi-Automated Hydraulic Machine used for making construction materials.

Expressing delight about the event, the Dean School of Engineering and Built Environment (SEBE), Prof. Bernadette Sabuni pointed out that MMUST is a hub of innovations and the prototypes exhibited is a proof that the School is doing an exemplary job. “The students are in the learning process and I am pleased with the ideas which are up to date on the industry trends. I am proud to be a mother of innovators,” she stated.

Speaking during the dinner, the former President of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), Eng. Nathaniel Matalanga, noted that engineering is the home of innovations.  He urged the University to take advantage of the treasure to grow the faculty, adding that the projects enhance students’ professional development and practical experience. Eng. Matalanga guaranteed collaborative efforts between MMUST and the Engineering Board of Kenya (EBK) to advance engineering studies at the University.

“It is my pleasure to share the final stage with you. A wise man shares ideas and I am happy that you have shared your ideas with us. Let us do better to change livelihoods in society. I urge you to register with the Engineering Board of Kenya (EBK) and become professional engineers,” stated Eng. Matalanga. He also advocated for proposal writing regarding the projects to turn the ideas into actual innovations, as well as allocation of funds for training the young engineers. In addition, he encouraged postgraduate studies in South Africa which is a member of the International Engineering Alliance for them to get international recognition.

The former President of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), Eng. Nathaniel Matalanga planting a tree to commemorate the event.

According to the speech of the President IEK, Eng. Erick Ohaga, engineering is a diverse and fast-growing area of professionalism. It has played a critical role in shaping the world and engineers look forward to shaping the future. “We are cognizant that the projects are efforts of the students with the help of their devoted lecturers. Hard work and dedication will benefit society. It is your time to shine, utilize the opportunity, and grow your career. IEK is proud to be associated with MMUST,” said Eng. Matalanga.

The Chairman of the Department (Civil and Structural Engineering), Dr. Micah Mukolwe who is also the Patron of ESA, applauded the sponsors for their support towards the success of the event. He stated that the event offered an opportunity for the students to interact with the key industrial players as they network on the issues pertaining to the career in gaining practical skills. Concurring with the Patron, the Secretary General of ESA, Mr. Isaac Okeyo acknowledged that the seamless process enabled the students to market their rich talents to the market players. He added that the association looks forward to more of such events.

A section of the event sponsors together with the Vice-Chancellor and the Dean, School of Engineering and Built Environment.

Notably, the exhibitions brought together MMUST Engineering Alumni represented by Eng. Michael Outa (Western Region Manager, KeRRA), Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) represented by Eng. Patrick Jangaya, Kenya Power and Lightning Company (KPLC) represented by Eng. Jennes Wafula, Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) represented by Eng. Rose Opiyo, Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA) represented by Eng. Joseph Kimuyu, SEBE Staff members, as well as the students pursuing Engineering. The sponsors assured their support to the University in growing the students’ practical skills.

Some of the key projects showcased by the students included; Regenerative Braking System, Automatic Smart Toilet, Power Hacksaw and Shaper Machine, Semi-Automated Hydraulic Machine, Automatic Smart Waste Bin, Vehicles Weight Governor, Motor-Solar Panel and Battery Bicycle, Air Cooled Carbonization Chimney, Bedini Monopole Battery Charging System, Beehive Monitoring and Control System, Manual Grass Planter and Energy Production Machine, as well as Wasting and Positioning Machine.

Third-year students pursuing Diploma in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering; Mr. Collins Kibet and Mr. Ian Osoro exhibiting Power Hacksaw and Shaper Machine during the event.

Clearly, the School of Engineering and Built Environment (SEBE) has goals for the future of the innovative ideas of its students to ensure the ideas are enhanced through such events as well as through incorporating key players in the area of engineering. This will be effective in the establishment of long-term objectives for the success of the students as well as the production of market-driven professionals.

By Verna Awuor

Photos by Shiundu Masafu