MMUST Conducts Disability Mainstreaming Workshop in Tandem With the Requirements of the National Council for Persons With Disabilities

Participants at the Disability Mainstreaming Workshop, Golf Hotel- Kakamega.

MMUST has conducted a two-day Disability Mainstreaming Workshop in tandem with the requirements of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD). The event which was facilitated by the Kakamega County Disability Officer, Ms. Priscah Akoth, took place on 16^th and 17^th February, 2023 at the Golf Hotel- Kakamega. The workshop, organized by the MMUST’s AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit, was graced by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai. It earmarked the Disability Mainstreaming Committee members and staff from the unit.

Pointing out that disability mainstreaming is an area that needs intervention by Universities; Prof. Mutai noted that MMUST is committed towards supporting the disability mainstreaming activities and projects through research. “It is useful to identify the barriers that staff and students with disabilities face in accessing University education. We recognize that anybody can become disabled anytime,” he stated. Prof. Mutai who is also an ardent researcher and renowned scholar in health added that innovation is critical in disability mainstreaming.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai addressing participants at the workshop.

Ms. Akoth took the committee members through several issues regarding Disability Mainstreaming including; ‘Understanding Disability’, ‘Data and Statistics on Disability’, ‘Disability Etiquette’, ‘Policy and Legal Frameworks in Disability’, ‘Disability Mainstreaming Guidelines’, ‘2022/2023 FY Indicator and Reporting Portal’ as well as ‘Accessibility and Usability Audits’. She encouraged the Committee members to help the PWDs to overcome stereotypes and handle them in a humane manner depending on the nature of their disability.

“Include the PWDs in all the University planning, activities and programs. We encourage you to involve NCPWD in your events in order to access assistive devices, infrastructure and equipment support, rehabilitation and habilitation programs, registration of the PWDs, scholarship opportunities and funding for business as well as education,” stated Ms. Akoth.

The Coordinator of AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit- Prof. Gladys Mengich, stated that the mandate of the unit includes sensitization, formulation and development of measures and policies targeted at promoting equal opportunities for PWDs. “This Disability Mainstreaming Committee Workshop has been conducted in tandem with the requirements of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities. It is also one of our indicators in the performance contract,” she said.

Prof. Charles Mutai (right) and Prof. Gladys Mengich listening as the Disability Mainstreaming Committee Chairperson, Prof. Danstone Baraza explains a point at the workshop.

The Director of Quality Assurance, Prof. Danstone Baraza who is also the Committee Chairperson, tackled ‘Roles of the Disability Mainstreaming Committee including; promoting awareness on disability issues, working towards 5% representation of the PWDs in the University, ensuring infrastructure is friendly to the PWDs, submitting standardized quarterly disability mainstreaming progress reports to the NCPWD and implement the recommendations, guarantee inclusion of PWDs in operations, as well as promoting principal of universal design in the planning, monitoring and evaluation of the University core mandate.

The Director of Performance, Monitoring and Evaluation- Prof. Joseph Nasongo applauded the Disability Mainstreaming Unit for the improved performance and urged the committee members to be on the forefront of advocacy for disability mainstreaming. He added that the committee members should strengthen their partnership with the NCPWD to assist the PWDs in the University.

“PWDs are human beings entitled to enjoyment of equal human rights enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution. It is our role to ensure that working, learning and living environments are conducive for them. Let us demonstrate to the NCPWD that we are considering the PWDs in the institution,” urged Prof. Nasongo. He encouraged the committee members to consider working with commitment as a sacred duty to humankind and to God.

The Director of Performance, Monitoring and Evaluation- Prof. Joseph Nasongo making a presentation at the workshop.

In her presentation on ‘Accessibility of services in MMUST’, the hostels officer- Ms. Jackline Olweny noted that the University is committed to make services easily accessible to the PWDs. These areas include; the hostels, parking areas, internet services and pathways. She encouraged sensitization of staff and students to inculcate good practices to ensure comfort of the PWDs in the institution. “I commend our customer care staff and the student leaders for ensuring a better stay for PWDs in the University,” she said. She advocated for a helpline for serving the PWDs in case of emergency.

From right: Ms. Gavin Nyarotso, Ms. Elizabeth Simiyu and student representative- Mr. Patrick Obaria keenly following the presentations during the workshop.

The Disability Mainstreaming Committee members present included; Prof. Francis Orata, Prof. Alice Ndiema, Prof. Jacob Wakhungu, Dr. Lydia Anyonje, Mr. Vincent Chibini, Ms. Gavin Nyarotso, Ms. Lilian Kundu, Jackline Olweny, Mr. Daniel Korir, Mr. Paul Rotich, Mr. Francis Osaka, and student representative- Mr. Patrick Obaria. Other University staff present were; Ms. Elizabeth Simiyu, Mr. Felix Ambuche, Ms. Eunice Pundo, Mr. Kennedy Anjieho, Ms. Adelaide Imbuka, Ms. Millicent Ingado, Ms. Selipher Sabatia, Ms. Verna Kungu, Ms. Linet Owuor and Mr. Canon Omondi.

By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Verna Awuor 

Photos by Linet Owuor

MMUST Hosts Delegation From Family Bank Kenya to Discuss Issues of Mutual Benefit

The Vice Chancellor in the company of the Finance Officer and the team from Family Bank during the meeting. 

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has today, 16^th February, 2023, hosted officials from the Family Bank Limited to discuss issues of mutual benefit between the two (2) institutions. The delegate, led by the Kakamega Branch Manager, Mr. Claude S. Karani was received by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo.

Speaking during the meeting, Prof. Shibairo pointed out that the University has had a good working relationship with the bank, adding that he looked forward to a more vibrant collaboration. “I am aware that Family bank provides quality and all-round services to its clients. As an institution, we need to strategize with banks, such as Family bank, and explore investment opportunities so that we can mobilize more finances,” said the Vice Chancellor.

The Vice Chancellor making a point during the meeting.

The Finance officer, CPA Jared Rading', briefed the visitors on the available opportunities that the team could explore in the University and asked them to consider MMUST students pursuing business related programmes for attachment opportunities. 

The Kakamega Family Bank Branch Manager, Mr. Claude S. Karani, engages in a conversation with the participants during the courtesy call.

“We are grateful for the things that we are doing together and most especially our relationship which has been strengthening each day. We guarantee you that we will continue to support the University and its students’ initiatives from time to time,” said Mr. Karani. Additionally, Mr. Karani took note of the Bank’s involvement in the University’s corporate social responsibility engagements and assured the Vice Chancellor of the Bank’s unalloyed commitment to working with MMUST.

Other notable members from Family Bank Kenya-Kakamega branch present during the meeting included; Ms. Everlyne Etemesi, Credit Supervisor and Mr. Cyrus Masinya, the Branch Operations Manager.

By Caren Nekesa

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

MMUST Conducts Policy Review Workshop on Risk Management in an Effort to Enhance the University’s Preparedness to Handle Risks

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo (center seated) together with other MMUST top officials after the workshop.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology recently conducted a Policy Review Workshop on Risk Management  in an effort to enhance the University’s preparedness to handle risks. The two-day workshop which was held from 14th to 15th February, 2023, was conducted in tandem with the law of Kenya which requires all organizations to sensitize personnel about Enterprise Risk Management Policy Framework. The event organized by the Office of the Registrar (Planning Research and Innovation) in conjunction with the Office of the Internal Auditor, took place at the Golf Hotel- Kakamega. This initiative was spearheaded by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo. In his opening remarks, Prof. Shibairo noted that it is prudent to understand the risks around us and prioritize them. He challenged the participants to be ready to face the challenges posed by the risks emanating from various parts of the University. “As an institution, people have different perceptions about us. For this reason, we are vulnerable to risks arising from the public as well as our competitors. It is our mandate to come up with a proper risk management policy to safeguard our reputation. Let us work together to achieve this,” he urged.

Prof. Shibairo addressing participants during the workshop.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research, and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai pointed out that the University consists of various cadres of professionals who should acquire risk mitigation skills. He added that the workshop will enable the team to utilize the resources available effectively. “We are here to ensure that the risks in the University are well managed. This is important in how the University attains its goals,” he stated.

According to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Student Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha, the University should cultivate a culture of appropriate coordination of its operations for proper risk management. “When we manage the risk areas, we shall ensure proper delivery of services and churn out highly skilled professionals,” he said. Equally, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria Thuo pointed out that strategic social cohesion improves service delivery and clear frameworks in collaborations will take the University to a higher level.

The Director of Pinebridge Training and Consulting Limited, Mr. Samuel Kibaara making a presentation during the workshop.

The workshop Facilitator, Mr. Samuel Kibaara, who is the Director of Pinebridge Training and Consulting Limited- Nairobi, acknowledged that institutions of higher learning are prone to threats, and implementation of a risk management policy helps in offering solutions to improve their products and services. Mr. Kibaara urged the University management to invest in risk management to adjust to the dynamic world. He stressed that the University should focus on training students who adapt best to the job market.

 “Our world today is interconnected and there are risks everywhere. Identify the needs of your clients to survive in the ever-changing job market. Invest in programs that are of high value to churn out highly skilled professionals who will be flexible to adapt to change,” stated Mr. Kibaara.

The Registrar (Planning Research and Innovation), Prof. Alice Ndiema stated that the University management is keen to know the activities that are risky so that it can come up with proper risk mitigation skills. She added that proper risk management measures serve the purpose of marketing the University and will result in a positive outcome. “The risks are many but we can manage to mitigate, avoid and tolerate them,” she said.

A section of the participants following presentations keenly.

Reiterating the Vice-Chancellor, the Internal Auditor- CPA Samuel Rotich emphasized that the risks must be understood and mitigated properly. “The risks faced by this institution are felt and handled by this team of top officials. Let us set aside an aim to achieve our objectives,” he said.

A MMUST Lecturer and expert in policy matters-Mr. Anthony Sang tackled institutional management policy framework, risk management register, risk assessment process, risk incident reporting, policy review, and structure of the policy. He stated that the risk management register should capture all the University risk areas for the standardized quality of the programs and services.

The workshop which drew the University’s top managers, deans, and directors across the University will certainly help in identifying and assessing a broad array of risks that could negatively impact the achievement of the University’s goals and objectives. Additionally, this policy review not only ensures appropriate ownership and accountability of risks but also develops and implements appropriate risk mitigation and monitoring plans by the institution.

By Verna Awuor and Sheila Ivayo 
Photos by Shiundu Masafu

MMUST Commits to Working With the Fourth Estate in a Bid to Promote Education Sector, as It Holds Second Vice Chancellor’s Media Breakfast

MMUST staff pose for a group photo together with journalists from various media houses.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has committed to working with the fourth estate in a bid to improve Kenya’s education sector. This was revealed during the second ‘Vice Chancellor’s Media Breakfast’ (VMB), which attracted attendance from both the mainstream and regional media stations, including the Standard, Nation, Royal Media Services, 103.9 MMUST FM, K24 TV, West TV/FM, Radio Africa group KBC/Tandao TV, as well as Lubao FM. The meeting, organized by the Directorate of Corporate Communications and Marketing (DCCM), in conjunction with the Vice Chancellor’s office, took place yesterday, 15^th February, 2023, at the VC’s boardroom.

Speaking during the event, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, acknowledged that the fourth estate is a very important entity in relation to development. “As members of the fourth estate, you owe it to Kenya to provide accurate information which will steer development. We are eager to collaborate with the media in order to support the growth of the education sector in this country,” said Prof. Shibairo, adding that MMUST will continually provide adequate and right information about the University to the media, for a balanced and fair reporting.

Prof. Solomon Shibairo gives his remarks during the second Vice Chancellor’s Media Breakfast.

“MMUST excels in academia, research and innovation. Besides this, we are focused on community outreach, consultancy and enterprise, student experience technology and institutional development,” stated the Vice Chancellor, saying that there is a need for this information to be in the limelight for the benefit of the University as well as the entire country.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai, stressed on his dedication to seeing MMUST attain its vision of being a premier University in science, technology and innovation. Further, Prof. Mutai stated that the University has allocated funds for its researchers, innovators as well as students, who will work with mentors, in order to take MMUST’s research and innovation to the next level.

“We have invited you here today in an effort to enhance the relationship between MMUST and the media, for accurate, effective and sustained reporting of University’s activities,” said the Director (DCCM), Dr. Lydia Anyonje. She asked the members of the fourth estate to participate in building MMUST, and other institutions of higher learning.

A section of journalists follows keenly during the VMB.

The members of the fourth estate held bilateral discussions with the Vice Chancellor, where they sought clarifications on a number of projects mentioned during the meeting, pointed out possible areas of improvement and appreciated the progress that has been made since the last VMB, which was held on 5^th May, 2022.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has demonstrated its dedication to improving the education sector in Kenya. MMUST recognizes that the media is a very powerful tool used to communicate information to the public and therefore, involving the fourth estate in the University’s activities will undoubtedly push the development agenda.

By Caren Nekesa and Mary Wangari Wambugu

 Photos by Shiundu Masafu 

Mastery of Motor Skills Essential to Rule Out Deformities in Limb Development, Structure and Symmetry

Ms. Irene Otieno during children's stimulation activities.

Physical, emotional, cognitive, language, and social development are vital aspects of human development. As a child goes through various developmental stages, these domains become more skillful. As part of the Health Assessment and Child development monitoring, the IHELP Principal Investigator, Dr. Rose Opiyo, incorporated Health Promotion and Sports Science personnel to conduct Motor Skills Assessment for the children in the centers during the training workshop. This is a key exercise that involves a mixture of physical activities that helps to identify the cause of any motor difficulties and leads to recommendations for support.

Ms. Ednah Sabin during the Motor Skills Assessment.

According to Ms. Ednah Sabin, a lecturer at the Department of Health Promotion and Sports Science-MMUST, mastery of many motor skills is important for normal daily functions. The five basic motor skills are sitting, standing, walking, running, and jumping. She was accompanied by Health Promotion and Sports Science fourth-year students undertaking a unit in fitness programming. This offered them an opportunity to implement their skills in motor skills assessment for preschoolers to fulfill the curriculum requirement.

The exercise involved the assessment of Gross and Motor Skills through the Test of Gross Motor Development (TGMD), administered to children aged three years and above. For those of three years and below, questionnaires were administered to their parents to report on fine and gross motor skills.

Ms. Ednah Sabin during the Motor Skills Assessment.

Motor development is important to children's health and growth. Early diagnosis is critical to early educational interventions for an effective treatment for mitigating symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children. 

By Linet Owuor

MMUST Paramedic Expert Dr. Tecla Sum Participates in the Development of Diploma Program in Advanced Emergency Medical Technology for the Kenya Medical Training Colleges

Participants during the development of the Diploma program in Emergency Medical Technology (AEMT) at KMTC, Mombasa.

The Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Paramedic Expert, Dr. Tecla Sum has participated in the development and rolling out of the Diploma program in Emergency Medical Technology (AEMT) for the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC). This was evident during an intensive one-week program development exercise that took place at the KMTC Mombasa campus, from 6^th to 9^th February 2023.

Speaking during the exercise, Dr. Sum, who is also the Chairperson of the Department of Paramedic Science, stressed the need of having a pool of experienced emergency managers who are well-trained and equipped for their tasks.

“In the wake of the horrifying earthquake in North West Syria that has seen the death toll rise to over 1930 and over 3500 casualties with severe injuries, the burden of response and recovery remains towering to all nations. The disaster-stricken countries are in dire need of rescue personnel support in the evacuation, treatment, and recovery process,” said Dr. Sum.  

Further, she pointed out that there is a need to support other Universities to train and provide sufficient academic ascending platforms for this diploma program, acknowledging that the success of the exercise will give MMUST a rich pool to draw its Bachelor of Science in Paramedic Science students. Dr. Sum thanked the University Management for the unwavering support.

Dr. Tecla Sum (left) together with other key personalities.

The KMTC fraternity, led by the Alternate Director to the Chief Executive Officer- Ms. Lucy Waweru noted with gratitude that they were delighted to have MMUST, the mother institution in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) training in Kenya, spearhead and support the process.

The exercise attracted other scholars from different institutions and bodies including Mr. Dennis Muthigi and Mr. Samson Mwambole of the Kenya Council of Emergency Medical Technology (KCEMT); Dr. Yusuf Nyakinda of the Emergency Medicine Kenya Foundation (EMKF); the Principals from various KMTCs in Kenya; Deputy Registrars, Students Affairs and Curriculum, Ms. Grace Mwangi and Mr. David Wafula respectively; Head of Quality Assurance, Ms. Lucy Kuria. The National Youth Service (NYS) was represented by the Director, Mr.  Mike Njagi, and Kenya National Qualification Authority (KNQA), Ms. Rita Mudza.

Notably, the validation of the program is set for March 2023, in the presence of our leadership from the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the Ministry of Education (MoE).  Certainly, MMUST is flying its flag high both nationally and internationally as the pioneer University in Africa in training Trauma and Emergency personnel.

By Linet Owuor and Caren Nekesa   

MMUST Tamasha Festival Advocates a Plethora of Cultural Heritage Strategies to Tackle Modern Challenges

Students showcase traditional dance during the Tamasha Cultural Festival 2023.

The Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Tamasha Cultural Festival 2023 has advocated for utilization of cultural heritage strategies to address modern challenges. This is in an effort to achieve sustainable development and create resilient communities. This five-day festival, set to celebrate, enhance and appreciate cultural diversity, was marked with a plethora of musical, dance and food extravaganza. The celebrations, themed ‘Leveraging on Culture for Climate Change Mitigation and Sustainable Development,’ were held from 8^th to 12^th February, 2023 at the University grounds.

Speaking during the official opening ceremony, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, pointed out that the University values cultural diversity, saying that MMUST hosts students from various communities across the nation and beyond. “We are dedicated to promoting indigenous knowledge as well as educating the younger generation about their roots. Tamasha is not only a platform for us to showcase our diverse and positive cultural differences, but also an avenue for the young generation to understand their cultural heritage,” said Prof. Shibairo.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo speaks during the official opening ceremony of Tamasha Cultural Festival 2023.

Further, he stated that a proper cultural grounding ensures that people embrace positive ethnicity especially in the modern world. “At MMUST, we are cognizant that indigenous knowledge is an important aspect that institutions of higher learning should tap into. This is one of the ways in which we can contribute towards sustainable development goals,” he added.

 “This festival provides an opportune moment to learn the different cultures, beliefs and indigenous knowledge,” stated the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Students Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha. Prof. Golicha mentioned that culture and education are two (2) inseparable parameters and that they are interdependent. “Any educational pattern gets its guidance from the cultural patterns of a society. Indigenous ways of teaching and learning have been viewed by many post-modern scholars as important for ensuring that students and teachers are able to benefit from education in a culturally sensitive manner,” said the DVC.

The Director, Privately Sponsored Student Program (PSSP), Prof. Ondiek Alala, who was representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai, said that MMUST researchers are constantly exploring indigenous knowledge in an effort to solve modern societal challenges such as climate change, poverty, inflation, disease and unemployment.

A section of MMUST officials during the official opening ceremony of Tamasha Cultural Festival 2023.

“The Division of Administration and Finance has continuously supported Tamasha as it recognizes the importance of this annual festival. Throughout this festival, we have not only witnessed cultural diversity, but also a display of talent and skills,” stated the Director, Performance, Monitoring and Evaluation Unit, Prof. Joseph Nasongo, who was representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. Kuria Thuo. Prof. Nasongo urged students to get involved in co- curricular activities like creative art, music, dance and poetry to earn extra cash during their stay in the University.

Expressing his delight, the Patron of Tamasha Cultural Festival, Prof. Edwin Wamukoya, applauded various cultural groups for their commitment to ensuring that the event was a success. “I commend all the students and cultural groups that have showcased different activities, for displaying some of the rich cultural practices of our people. Let us take advantage of such festivals to educate others about our traditions and learn from various cultures,” he urged.

MMUST International students showcase traditional foods during the festival.

Equally, the Dean of Students, Dr. Bernadette Abwao, thanked the University management for its dedication to ensuring that cultural heritage is celebrated in MMUST, adding that there is a need for preserving African culture. “Our culture is beautiful. We need to preserve our diverse culture which has been neglected due to modernity. I encourage you to visit the various sections displayed during these celebrations, and take time to familiarize yourselves with other cultures,” said the Dean of Students.

The climax of the event, slated for Saturday, 11^th February, 2023, will see students get the opportunity to experience and understand assorted cuisines and art from several cultures. The students will be privileged to witness the crowning of Miss MMUST, Mr. MMUST, Miss Curvy and Mr. Flex, who will embark on representing MMUST’s cultural diversity on various occasions. Additionally, the University staff and students will be treated to ‘Tamasha Dinner’ on Friday, 10^th February, 2023.

Prof. Shibairo planting a tree to mark this year’s Tamasha Festival.

Besides tree planting, the event attracted performances such as music, dance, skits, art, bull fighting, games and sports, as well as exhibitions which were displayed using lavish, stylish instruments and costumes. These were showcased by cultural groups such as the Turkana, Coast, Maasai, Kikuyu, Luo, Kuria, Kisii, Pokot, Luhya, Kamba, Meru and International communities, represented by various student groups. Notably, the festival did not leave behind Karate and Taekwondo teams, which performed exceptional acts for the audience to learn self-defense skills.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has demonstrated its willingness to steer the agenda of sustainable development through the support of a week-long cultural festival. This is part of what is expected of Universities as custodians of knowledge.

By Verna Awuor and Mary Wangari Wambugu

Photos by Shiundu Masafu 

IHELP Principal Investigator Dr. Rose Opiyo Spearheads Efforts to Equip Children’s Caregivers with Skills in the Newly Established Centers

Dr. Rose Opiyo (speaking) with a section of center leaders during the workshop.

The Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s researcher, Dr. Rose Opiyo, has once again spearheaded a three-day training workshop to equip caregivers with diverse skills in responsive caregiving in the newly established iHELP centers. This training was conducted at the SHIMA iHELP center from 7^th to 9^th February 2023 and was facilitated by a Nutrition Expert, Ms. Martina Adega, and the project’s Consultant Ms. Irene Otieno.

Speaking during the workshop, Dr. Opiyo expressed delight to the Ikolomani and Shiveye communities for welcoming the iHELP project and working towards its sustainability. She noted that IHELP is a project that fosters the inclusivity of all children.

“I encourage you to learn as much as you can from this training. Children should be exposed to items that are attractive, kindle curiosity, and create connections to their cultural identities. This includes providing materials that send positive, inclusive messages about children with disabilities,” she added.

Learning materials.

Commenting on Child Safety and Protection, Dr. Opiyo stated that parents and caregivers are liable for building a safe and friendly environment for their children. She advised the participants to start a conversation about the basic safety measures with their kids at an early stage.

This training brought together various caregivers and center managers from SHIMA and Indete IHELP Centres. During the first day of training, Ms. Adega took the participants through proper nutrition and health assessment of children, where she tackled the benefits of proper nutrition to children’s growth, provision of a healthy diet, and appropriate feeding patterns. Further, she administered Vitamin A and dewormers to the children as per the assessment conducted.

Ms. Martina Adega administering Vitamin A to a child.

Additionally, she comprehensively presented child safety and protection as a key measure to ensure the safety of children from violence, exploitation, abuse, and neglect. She explained the ten (10) Commandments of Child Safety to the participants.

“Although protecting the child at every step is neither possible nor advisable for their development and confidence, there are certain things we can do to ensure the overall safety of our children. I urge you to ensure the safety of your children in terms of accidents, food, diseases, and injuries,” said Ms. Adega.

A section of the participants following the presentations.

The training also encompassed systematic demonstrations of material development in childhood education to aid the learning, stimulation and playing of the children while at the centers. This was addressed by Ms. Irene Otieno who guided the caregivers in developing various materials for the children.

“This is an important lesson for caregivers to develop critical thinking skills for selecting appropriate materials, and producing tools for children during their stay at the centers. It will also enable the development of self-prepared instructional materials for learning and playing purposes.

Caregivers during material development session.

Attesting to the impact of the training, one of the caregivers, Ms. Mary Nafula appreciated the efforts to empower them in the upbringing of their children. “This exercise has enabled us to reflect on our role in Early Childhood Education to ensure our children are well grounded.  We applaud our trainers who have done immensely empowered us with requisite skills in responsive caregiving,” said Ms. Nafula.

Children display materials developed by the caregivers.

Certainly, the IHELP project is an anti-biased approach to learning that supports and embraces the differences within an individual. Such workshops encourage the use of materials that empower children of all racial, ethnic, and social backgrounds. This helps in bridging the gap between children’s home and school lives, thus providing a strong foundation for learning. 

By Linet Owuor

Photos by Linet Owuor