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

Participants at MMUST, Bungoma Campus Annual Career Fair Advised to Invest Adequately in Their Children’s Education

MMUST staff  discuss with students during the event.

Participants at the just concluded annual career fair held at the Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Bungoma campus, have been advised to invest adequately in their children’s education. The event was attended by parents, students and members of the community. The well-attended, one-day career fair, which took place on 31^st March, 2023, was graced by the Director, Privately Sponsored Students Learning Centres and Campuses, Prof. Benedict Alala who was also representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Planning Research and Innovation, Prof. Charles Mutai. Bungoma campus was represented by its very own Director, Prof. William Toili who was in the company of the Deans from different faculties in the University.

The aim of the event was  sensitize secondary school leavers and holders of Diplomas and Certificates on available opportunities as well as the need for them to further their studies.  The organizers also utilized the opportunity to mentor form-four students on how to choose their careers, and to engage the community on the need to invest in their children’s education.

Speaking during the event, Prof. Alala noted that education is the equalizer in our societies as it helps to level the playing field as well as create more opportunities for individuals to succeed, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. He urged parents to invest in their children’s education, stating that it is almost the only safest way to secure their future, even as they strive to ensure their health, wellness and provisions.

“As a University of choice, we pride ourselves in offering some of the most unique and competitive programmes across the globe,” said Prof. Alala. He asked the form four students to work hard, stay focused and work on their subject combinations as they think about the careers they would want to pursue.

The Director, Privately Sponsored Students, Learning Centres and Campuses, Prof. Benedict Alala addressing the participants during the career fair.

Prof. William Toili emphasized on the significance of career fairs, noting that they offer students the opportunity to explore, connect and learn new things, including how to navigate social terrain when talking to professionals. He also spoke about the relevance of investing in children’s education, highlighting that it is essential for their intellectual and cognitive development.

“Education equips our children with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful and productive members of society. It also facilitates their development of critical thinking abilities, problem-solving, and decision-making skills that are essential for success in all aspects of life,” he stated.

Further, Prof. Toili informed the students that there is an opportunity for them to pursue higher education regardless of their grades and ended his address by quoting the famous Derek Bok “.”

Similarly, the University’s Marketing Officer, Mr. James Muriithi echoed Prof. Toili’s sentiments, confirming that MMUST has all-round and marketable programmes that accommodate all grades. He encouraged the students to consult the customer care and marketing team after they receive their results for a more personalized assessment of their strengths and guidance on course and career choice.

“As you plan to join MMUST, make use of our Bungoma campus facility and ensure that it becomes your next home from where you are,” he noted. Mr. Muriithi further engaged the participants on how they can finance their education while at MMUST, the available scholarship opportunities, sporting activities as well as mode of learning adopted in different programmes.  

The University’s Marketing Officer, Mr. James Muriithi makes a presentation at the event.

Deans from respective schools had the opportunity to talk to the students. The Dean, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedical Sciences, Mr. John Arudo, encouraged students to perform well if they hoped to pursue careers in the health field. “The nursing field has a lot of opportunities while at the same time very competitive. Aim for stronger A’s because we go for the best performer,” he stated.

Reiterating Mr. Arudo’s sentiments, Dr. Henry Nyongesa representing the Dean School of Medicine extolled the benefits of studying medicine.  “What makes MMUST unique as you study medicine is that we have small numbers that allow the student to be exposed adequately to the clinical setting. We also have an in-house mentorship programme where each student is attached to a lecturer, such that should you have any challenges within your study, you can always have someone to advise timely,” he said.

Dr. Eric Wangila, representing the Dean School of Education and Dr. Rose Onamu, representing the Dean School of Agriculture, Veterinary Science and Technology both highlighted the opportunities that exist in the market for graduates. They explained that Teaching is a career and a profession where one will never lack employment. As long as babies are born without knowledge, the world will always need teachers. On the other hand, there is more to agriculture than digging. Agriculture has very many opportunities in todays’ world and it is very marketable.

Ms. Betty Opilo, representing the Dean School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance discussed with the participants why the world needs professionals in this field. “Disaster management is a collaborative effort that involves individuals, organizations, and communities working together to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Studying disaster management can enable individuals to contribute to their communities by supporting resilience-building efforts as well as disaster response and recovery operations,” said Ms. Opilo.

A section of the students making consultations on career choice.

Education is crucial for the development of a well-informed and knowledgeable population, which is necessary for a functioning democracy. Educated individuals are also more likely to be engaged in their communities and to participate in social, structural and civic activities that steers development. On a more personal level, investing in education can lead to personal growth and development, career advancement, economic benefits, social benefits, and personal fulfillment - an investment in oneself that can pay off in many ways over the course of a lifetime. It is commendable that MMUST has stood out in its advocacy missions for education to all.

By Caren Nekesa and Sheila Ivayo 

MMUST Security Department Stakeholder Consultative Meeting Set to Heighten Non-resident Students’ Security

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Security Department on 31^st March 2023, held a stakeholder meeting that is set to heighten the security of non-resident students. This consultative meeting was aimed at deliberating on various issues causing insecurity to our students and coming up with recommendations to curb this menace. The key stakeholders involved in the meeting included the In-Charge Lurambi Police Post, the In-Charge Kefinco Police Patrol Base, the Chief- Bukhungu Location, Assistant Chiefs- of Mahiakalo & Sichirai, Dean of Students, Student Leaders, Wardens, Nyumba Kumi, and Boda Boda Representatives.

The meeting was chaired by the University, Chief Security Officer, Dr. Julius Mabia who noted that the insecurity of our students has become rampant and requires urgent action to address.

Participants during the meeting.

“With increased cases of attacks and assaults of our students in their residences, we need to come up with a long-term solution for this menace. I want us to work together to ensure that our students are safe at all times. Failure to which, we are going to withdraw our students in regions where insecurity cases are rampant. We shall not allow our students to stay in hostels that do not meet the minimum requirements that the University will roll out,” said Dr. Mabia.

Ms. Linda Omenya (representing the Dean of Students) reiterated that there it is high time for the insecurity issue to be addressed and the assailants brought to book. She urged the student leaders to sensitize comrades on their safety and encourage them to take responsibility for their lives.

Additionally, the MMUSO President, Mr. Benjamin Mutisya stated that the lives of comrades are important.

Participants during the meeting.

“These students are important both to the University and the community.  I am happy that we are having this meeting to come up with resolutions that will enhance the security of Comrades,” said Mr. Mutisya. His sentiments were echoed by the Vice-Chairperson, Ms. Annah Atieno who expressed delight at the University for endeavoring to protect the lives of students.

The other student leaders present were Non-Resident Representatives; Ms. Yvonne Riziki, Ms. Naomy Langat, Mr. Sammy Mwania, Mr. Armstrong Ayanga, and Mr. Jacob Ongoro. The Representatives shared various challenges students are facing in their respective regions and made recommendations that need to be implemented. Other offices from the MMUST Security Department were, Mr. Benedict Shitera, Mr. Manoah Bonface, and Dennis Munjeresa (Ismax security).

Some of the resolutions made were sensitization of students, embracing police patrol, community policing, discouraging late nights walks, putting up street lights in areas that do not have, advising landlords to have rules that regulate the entry of people in the residential areas, proper security of compounds and prompt reporting when an incidence arises. Dr. Mabia noted that they will plan for a meeting with all landlords and conduct sensitization training for non-resident students.

By Linet Owuor

Photos by Masafu Shiundu

National Council for People With Disabilities Conducts Accessibility and Usability Audit to Reinforce University’s Compliance

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha (seated center), Job Placement Officer NCPWD- Ms. Jane Wamugu and MMUST team.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) is hosting officials from the National Council of People with Disability (NCPWD) for a two-day audit on usability and accessibility to reinforce its compliance with the Council’s standards. The purpose of this audit is to establish how well the University’s buildings perform in relation to access and ease of use by a wide range of potential users, including people with physical mobility and sensory impairments. The exercise which began today, 30^th March 2023 to Friday 31^st March 2023, is coordinated by the Disability Mainstreaming Committee.

The team paid a courtesy call to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha who is representing the Vice Chancellor. Prof. Shibairo urged the visitors to feel at home as they undertake their audit.

“We are happy to have this activity taking place at our institution. MMUST is at the forefront to promote inclusivity and in case there are areas that require adjustments, we shall implement them according to your standards,” said Prof. Golicha.

From left; Prof. Golicha, the Director, Privately Sponsored Student Programmes- Prof. Ondiek Alala, and the Coordinator AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit -Prof. Gladys Mengich during the courtesy call.

The other notable personalities present were the Director, Privately Sponsored Student Programmes- Prof. Ondiek Alala (representing DVC PRI), the Chairperson Disability Mainstreaming Committee - Prof. Danstone Lilechi, Coordinator AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit (ACGDMU)- Prof. Gladys Mengich, and Disability Mainstreaming Committee members; Mr. Daniel Korir, Mr. Paul K. Rotich, and Mr. Lawrence Oluchiri.

The two-day audit is aimed at performing an assessment of infrastructure for accessibility that allows easy navigation by the PWDs. Some of the areas to be assessed include; door knobs, lifts, stairs, gates, lecture halls, parking, and lighting. Additionally, the audit will also involve an evaluation of the Website accessibility, Procurement procedures, and Human Resource roles regarding the employability of the PWDs in the institution.

 The Chairperson Disability Mainstreaming Committee - Prof. Danstone Lilechi and Ms. Wamugu listening keenly.

Once the assessment is done, the NCPWD officers will submit a report regarding the audit that will state the performance of the University. Thereafter, there will be a de-briefing on the findings for implementation by the University.

Certainly, there is a need to embrace such exercises to promote the Accessibility and Usability of the built environment to ensure MMUST as a whole is accessible to PWDs.

By Linet Owuor and Sheila Ivayo

Photos by Linet Owuor

The School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance Conducts Community Outreach to Kakamega School for the Deaf as Part of Field Skills

The Dean SDMHA, Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa (in red cross attire) together with staff from MMUST, Kakamega School for the Deaf and a section of students who participated in the outreach.

The School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA), in collaboration with the Disaster Environmental Management Association (DEMA) on 29^th March 2023, carried out community outreach to the Kakamega School for the Deaf. This is a compulsory practical component that is carried out as part of learning every Academic Year. It also fosters humanitarian and disaster components in the students.

Speaking during the exercise, the Dean SDMHA, Dr. Ferdinand Nabiswa noted that this is a key part of learning for the students. It instills in them the virtues of empathy, kindness, and humility. It also enables them to plan and execute humanitarian interventions.

“As the course lecturer, this Field Skills Practicum helps in bridging the gap between the classroom and the practice environment. At the end of this activity, each student will submit a report for evaluation since this is an essential part of their learning. The climax of the Field Skills Practicum will be actualized in Budalangi where the students will get exposure to real disaster interventions,” said Dr. Nabiswa.

A section of the participants assisting in washing the clothes of the learners

The Deputy Headteacher, of Kakamega School for the Deaf, Mr. Isaac Omongo, expressed delight to the University for endeavoring to empower their learners.

“We really appreciate your donations to our school and promoting inclusivity to People living with Disabilities. Our students feel encouraged and I am certain that at the end of this exercise, they will not remain the same,” he added.

The School Representatives, Mr. Clifford Opiyo (Male- 3^rd year) and Ms. Caroline Kimamo (Female-1^st year) pointed out that through this exercise, they have been able to learn and share experiences with the learners. “We have been able to engage with the students to learn their challenges and know their needs as part of our learning. We appreciate fellow comrades for their selflessness and teamwork that have made this a success,” said the duo.

Reiterating his counterparts, the DEMA Director, Mr. David Omurui (1^st year) appreciated their School management for offering them the opportunity to practically learn what they have been taught in class. He urged fellow comrades to continue impacting society through humanitarian interventions.

Learners from Kakamega School for the Deaf receiving donations from MMUST team.

The students who participated in the outreach included a section of 1^st year, 2^nd year, and 3rd-year students pursuing  Security Intelligence, Emergency Management Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies as well as Disaster Management respectively. They offered various services to the school such as cleaning the compound, classes, and dormitories, washing, and counseling the teens. To promote bonding and integration, the students shared a drink with the learners. Similarly, they offered an assortment of donations including sugar, stationery, sanitary towels, and foodstuff; courtesy of their contributions.

The students were also accompanied by other staff from SDMHA including Mr. Leonard Nyongesa, Ms. Betty Opilo, Ms. Janerose Kimuma, and Mr. Peter Otsianda.

Indeed this is an important learning session that helps in the assessment of the students to gauge their readiness for the practice of their professions outside the classroom setting. It is also a form of Corporate Social Responsibility that boosts the image of the University and helps in transforming the community. 

By Linet Owuor

MMUST Vice Chancellor Visits Three Students Admitted at the Kakamega County General Teaching and Referral Hospital Following Attack by Unknown Assailants

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo consoling the student.

 The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo has today 28th March 2023, visited three University students admitted at the Kakamega County General Teaching and Referral Hospital (KCGH) following an attack by Unknown Assailants, at their residences on Thursday and Saturday night. The VC was accompanied by the Dean of Students Dr. Bernadette Abwao, staff from the Directorate of Corporate Communications and Marketing (DCCM), Security, University Clinic and Dean’s office, and the MMUSO Chairperson- Mr. Benjamin Mutisya.

The three students; Ms. Belinda Kathambi (1^st year), Ms. Gloria Akubu (2^nd year- Bachelor of Education), and Mr. Felix Okello (1^st year- Bachelor of Commerce) sustained injuries and are getting treatment at the County hospital. Ms. Akubu, who has been discharged, and Ms. Kathambi (still under medication) are roommates and were attacked by thugs at their residence near Lupe hospital on Saturday night. Similarly, Mr. Okello who is still admitted, awaiting surgery, was attacked on Thursday night, 23^rd March 2023.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, the Dean, and Student Leaders consoling one of the attacked student.

Speaking during the visit to the hospital, Prof. Shibairo noted that the University is keen on ensuring the safety of students at all times. He however discouraged the students from staying in insecure places, late-night parties, and walking late at night.

“In order to foster the security of our students we have collaborated with the County government of Kakamega to have police patrols in hotspot areas. We have also established a police post at Kefinco estate and I am glad to report that the insecurity cases have since reduced. I am reviving the liaison office to work closely with the community, the County government, and the KCGH administration to ensure our students are attended to promptly when such cases arise. I wish our students a quick recovery,” said Prof. Shibairo.

Ms. Gloria Akubu explaining a point to the Vice Chancellor.

Additionally, the Vice Chancellor noted that the University is undertaking a project on affordable housing to construct a ten-thousand-capacity hostel to boost the security of our students. He also encouraged the students to have medical covers which are very key in facilitating their treatment when an emergency arises.

The liaison team will focus on students’ security, carry out resource mobilization, and activities aimed at establishing a rapport between the students and the community, as well as the health facilities where our students seek medication.

Echoing the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Abwao condemned the act saying that there is a need for the students to stay safe, especially at this time when attacks are prone in our country.

The team from the University during the visit to the hospital.

The MMUSO Chairperson, Mr. Benjamin Mutisya, assured comrades of his support in ensuring their safety. He noted that as Student Executive Council, in collaboration with the University Management, they are planning to conduct a community policing outreach where they will engage the community, and the County security personnel to address the issue of attacks and assaults on MMUST students. This will help in establishing a long-term solution for the same.

The Kakamega County General Teaching and Referral Hospital Administrator, Mr. Hillary Kiberenge, and Ms. Peris Wangulu (nurse) appreciated the Vice Chancellor for visiting the students. They noted that the visit is a gesture of the good working relations existing between the two institutions.

The visit by the Vice Chancellor is a reflection of the University's commitment to students' security and welfare. 

By Linet Owuor

Photos by Masafu Shiundu

MMUST Hosts the 5th Edition of the UHAI Festival Western Circuit to Foster Talents of Persons With Disabilities in the Society

Participants during the festival.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology hosted the 5th Edition of the UHAI Festival Western Circuit on Friday, 24th March 2023, to promote and foster the talents of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in society. MMUST also participated in this event which was earmarked for giving the PWDs an opportunity to showcase different talents, celebrate life, and network with other members of society. The festival which was organized by Signs Media TV led by the Director, Mr. Luke Muleka was marked with a wide array of games and sports activities, performing arts, dance, music, athletics, as well as fashion show at the University grounds.

In his opening remarks, the Director of the Privately Sponsored Students Program (PSSP)- Prof. Benedict Alala who was representing the Vice Chancellor- Prof. Solomon Shibairo, noted that this is a unique event that empowers PWDs to live independently and to have equal opportunities in society.

“We are aware that a few events are tailored for the PWDs for Social, economic, political, and talent development. I consider this a great step towards identifying, harnessing, and supporting the talent of PWDs. As a University, we are at the forefront of championing the rights of PWDs. As we mark this day, I encourage you to continue engaging in such activities as a way of nurturing and promoting your talents,” he urged.

The Director of the Privately Sponsored Students Program (PSSP)- Prof. Benedict Alala giving an opening remark.

Speaking during the festival, Mr. Muleka pointed out that the media is committed to championing the inclusion of the PWDs and thus promoting competition and participation of the special group in co-curricular activities. He urged the participants to utilize the opportunity to grow their talents.

“It is our mandate to build cultural bridges, remove barriers, eliminate stigma, and create a society that allows free interaction between PWDs and non-PWDs. Let us ensure the welfare and employability of the PWDs in the country as well as the African Region. I thank the University management for hosting this festival; it is a prudent gesture that you appreciate equality,” he stated.

From left; the Director, Mr. Luke Muleka, Prof. Alala, and the Chief Officer of Youth, Sports, and Library Services (Kakamega County)- Mr. Joseph Abucheri consulting each other at the festival.

Similarly, his counterpart, Mr. Jared Getanda who is the Director of Talent Development at Signs Media TV encouraged the participants to develop their talents and make the best presentations that are worth showcasing on television.

According to Ms. Edna Sabin who was representing the Patron Disability Club (MMUST)- Prof. Peter Bukhala, co-curricular activities act as social, psychological, physical, and emotional therapy to our bodies. She added that the University is supporting the country as well as the world by incorporating the PWDs in the activities such as sports. “As an institution, PWDs are special to our hearts. Let us collaborate in championing for adaptability of abled-bodied and people with disabilities in physical activities,” she urged.

The Chairperson of the Guiding and Counselling Department, Ms. Pauline Adhiambo who was representing the Dean of Students, Dr. Bernadette Abwao, acknowledged that the office ensures inclusion of the PWDs in the University activities such as games and sports. “As we celebrate here today, ensure you enjoy yourselves and leave a different person. God created you with a purpose. Take up the mantle and utilize opportunities with courage,” she said.

Ms. Pauline Adhiambo (white blouse) among other participants at the festival.

The Chief Officer of Youth, Sports, and Library Services (Kakamega County)- Mr. Joseph Abucheri guaranteed the County’s support in the development of social, equity, and empowerment of special groups in its operations. “We are here to watch, participate, and enjoy with you. As we celebrate, let us work together and promote a spirit of teamwork,” he stated.

Besides magnificent performances, the event culminated in award giving ceremony where winning groups bagged 150,000, 100, 000 and 50,000 Kenyan Shillings respectively.

The festival attracted persons with disabilities from various institutions including; MMUST, Maseno University, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), Kisumu National Polytechnic, Lugari Technical Training College, Shamberere Technical Training Institute, and St. Angela Mumias Secondary Vocational School for the Deaf Girls’.

Participants of the sitting volleyball games between Chui (blue) and simba (red) teams.

The committee members during the festival included; Mr. Geoffrey Barasa, Mr. Boniface Manoah, Mr. Victor Ashiali, Ms. Linet Owuor, Mr. Joseph Mugo, Ms. Selphine Muyonga, and Mr. Akaka Shisoka. The MMUSO secretary General- Ms. Natalie Atieno, Co-Curricular Secretary- Mr. Gonza Felix, and the Special Interest Secretary- Ms. Loice Akinyi were also present at the event.

Indeed, engaging PWDs in such life-changing activities enhance their interpersonal skills, peer models, problem-solving skills, positive self-image, and respect for others. This can trickle down to their families as well, teaching them to accept their differences.

By Verna Awuor

Photos by Linet Owuor