MMUST Launches Alcohol And Drug Abuse Baseline Survey In An Effort To Combat Drug Abuse Menace Among Its Staff And Students

The participants at the launch.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Alcohol and Drug Abuse (ADA) Committee on 22^nd March 2023, launched an eight-day Alcohol and Drug Abuse Baseline Survey in a bid to combat the menace of drug abuse among the University staff and students. The survey, aimed at generating data on the levels of drug abuse in MMUST, will be conducted in tandem with the National Authority for the Campaign against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) guidelines.

The exercise, which is spearheaded by the NACADA Western Region Manager, Ms. Sarah Koske, commenced on the 16^th and will end on Monday, the 27^th of March 2023. This will be followed by the review of ADA policy to inform the establishment of a customized employee and student assistance program for the University.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Students Affairs), Prof. Hussein Golicha, acknowledged that the survey seeks to give an intent understanding of the general trend of alcohol and drug abuse among the employees and its effects on their productivity. “We look forward to establishing the impact of drug abuse on productivity among our staff and students. I believe we shall reduce the impact of drug abuse amongst us to improve future productivity, employability, and performance,” he stated.

The NACADA Western Region Manager, Ms. Sarah Koske giving a remark during the launch.

Expressing her delight, Ms. Koske noted that alcohol and drug abuse affects us equally and urged the participants to analyze the issue from various approaches. She guaranteed her support throughout the exercise, adding that the root cause of drug abuse among University students is the availability of free time. “As we embark on the survey, let us understand that drug abuse is here with us. Let us face the reality and help others live a healthy life,” she said.

Speaking during the launch, the Dean of Students, Dr. Bernadette Abwao, pointed out that alcohol and drug abuse is a national disaster, especially in institutions of higher learning. She applauded the ADA Committee for its commitment to changing the mundane. “There are emerging cases of alcohol and drug abuse among our students. These are our future generation of leaders and employees who need a better direction in society. Let us come out and support this exercise for a better future,” she urged. 

The Chairperson of the ADA Committee, Dr. Dennis Omayio, addressing participants at the event.

Expressing his gratitude, the Chairperson of the ADA Committee, Dr. Dennis Omayio, noted that this is an important exercise that will enable the University to handle the challenges of drug abuse, which not only affect MMUST’s staff and students but also the community. “Alcohol and drug abuse is a threat to society and the University is not left out as a larger part of society. The exercise will help the institution to manage the issues of drug abuse, thus increasing our performance,” he stated.

Further, Dr. Omayio outlined the objectives of the survey which include; to determine psychoactive drugs abused by the University staff and students, to establish the distribution of different drugs abused by the staff and students at various levels, to find out the causes of drug abuse in the University, and to explore the effects of drug abuse on staff and students in terms of performance and productivity. He urged the participants to be honest for more efficient and effective findings, which will help in increasing productivity among staff and students.

The ADA Committee Research Manager, Dr. Rose Opiyo, speaking during the launch.

The Research Manager (ADA Committee), Dr. Rose Opiyo, acknowledged that drug and substance abuse is a risk in society and commended NACADA for working together with the University in managing the issues of alcohol and drug abuse. She added that the exercise will enable the committee to fulfill the mandate of NACADA in supporting the national agenda of combating drug abuse.

“This is a prudent exercise and it is proof that the University values its staff and students. MMUST is a content-centered institution and this exercise will help us recognize the people around us. As we conduct the survey, we shall understand the matters affecting our staff and students, therefore finding necessary solutions to them,” said Dr. Opiyo.

A section of the participants listening keenly during the launch.

ADA Committee members present during the launch included; Mr. Joseph Mugo, Ms. Pauline Adhiambo, Ms. Miriam Kimani, Ms. Marble Wanyonyi, Ms. Purity Muchere, and Ms. Jane Muriuki. The MMUSO Chairperson, Mr. Benjamin Mutisya, as well as the MMUSO Treasurer, Mr. Moses Ekitela, were also present.

The launch brought together ADA committee members, MMUSO leadership, and peer educators who are also research assistants on this project. Certainly, this key exercise will provide comprehensive and varied evidence-based interventions for enhancing educational outcomes. This will also help the University to achieve its performance contract on ADA-related case management for the financial year 2022/2023.

By Verna Awuor

Photos by Wangari Wambugu

MMUST's Security Department Conducts a Fire Safety and First Aid Training for Staff and Students to Increase Awareness on Safety Measures

Participants at graduation square during the training.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s security department has today, 22^nd March 2023, conducted a one-day fire safety and first aid training for staff and students in an effort to increase awareness on safety measures as well as how to handle oneself during emergencies. The event was organized in conjunction with MMUST’s School of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (SDMHA) and the County Government of Kakamega’s Department of Disaster Management. The training, which took place at the University Graduation Square, was attended by over 100 participants.

Speaking during the event, the Chief Security Officer, Dr. Julius Mabia noted that fire safety and first aid training is important because the University community needs to be equipped with practical skills to enable them to respond in the event of any emergency.

“Emergency preparation is key to keeping all staff on the same page about what to do in the event of an emergency. Conducting training of this nature puts knowledge out there and helps reduce the risk of certain emergencies such as fire. It also helps staff and students to keep calm instead of panicking if anything similar was to happen,” said Dr. Mabia.  

MMUST Chief Security Officer, Dr. Julius Mabia training staff at graduation square.

The team of fire and rescue personnel led by Mr. Jackson Wanyama, taught the participants about the types of fires, causes of fire, fire safety as well as fire equipment. He stressed that fire prevention is the first step in fire safety as he took the participants through the steps to be followed in case of fire and how to raise an alarm during such situations. They also demonstrated evacuation techniques during a fire emergency and how to search for people and effectively evacuate them. Further, a mock fire drill was carried out and the participants were given the opportunity to participate in the demonstrations of extinguishing fire and carrying out rescue operations.

“We have different classes of fires caused by either combustion of ordinary or organic materials, highly flammable liquids, gas or metals such as aluminium. It is important for any fire fighter to do a serious inspection of the cause in order to use the right extinguisher or tool to put out the fire,” stated Mr. Wanyama. 

Mr. Jackson Wanyama from the Kakamega County fire department demonstrates how to use a fire blanket.

The Kakamega County Deputy Commander – St. John Ambulance, Mr. Abdallah Hassan took the participants through first aid. In his address, he noted that first aid is a skill that everyone should have.

“We do first aid to preserve life, prevent further injury and to promote recovery. Accidents can happen at any time and in any place and they can range from minor injuries to more serious emergencies such as cardiac arrest or even severe bleeding. The ambiguity of accidents makes it important for everyone to be equipped with first aid skills,” said Mr. Abdallah. He further educated the participants on how to do an initial assessment in case of an accident, types of casualties, how to check for breathing and performing the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) to both adults and children including infants.

Mr. Abdallah Hassan of St. John's ambulance demonstrates how to carry out first aid.

Mr. Abdallah emphasized that often, emergency situations find people unprepared hence we need to quickly think and intervene using the available resources. He added that properly equipped first aid kits should be made available at different locations within the University, to provide supplies to administer care to the casualties and minimize health effects before medical attention can be secured.

Other notable personalities present during the training include MMUST Security Officer, Mr. Benedict Shitera; Staff from SDHMA Mr. Leonard Nyongesa and Ms. Jane Kimuma. Two Student representatives from SDHMA, Mr. Clifford Opiyo and Ms. Caroline Kimamo also attended. The Kakamega County Disaster Unit team consisted of fire inspectors Ms. Florence Awonda, Ms. Lavender Ochieng and Ms. Edilquine Amaumo as well as Pump Operators-Mr. Jackson Agesa and Mr. Anthony Musyomi.

Fire safety and first aid training is important to everyone regardless of whether they work in a high risk environment or not. By providing comprehensive training on the same, MMUST will certainly help prevent fires and ensure that people are prepared to respond effectively in the event of an emergency.

By Caren Nekesa and Sheila Ivayo 

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

Biophysical Society (BPS) Ambassador Africa, Dr. Philip Amuyunzu Hosts Induction Training for Expansion of the Society in the Continent

A screenshot picture of a section of the webinar participants.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, lecturer in the School of Natural Sciences (SONAS)- Dr. Philip Amuyunzu on Friday, 17^th March 2023, hosted an induction training webinar to champion the expansion of the Society in Africa. This was courtesy of the Biophysical Society Kenyan Chapter housed at MMUST where Dr. Amuyunzu is heading the association.

Speaking during the webinar, Dr. Amuyunzu noted that the membership has been rising gradually across the globe.  However, he highlighted some of the challenges affecting society which included gender parity, low enrollment, lack of Biophysics mainstream staff, and reduced government funding.

“I urge you all to embrace Biophysics and establish BPS Chapters in your respective countries. This can be achieved through promoting international conferences in Biophysics,” said Dr. Amuyunzu.

This virtual event drew participants from various countries including Uganda, Nigeria, Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kenya, and officials from the Biophysical Society. The officials from the BPS assured the participants of reduced membership rates to increase the enrollment of new members to the society. They also conclusively addressed other concerns raised during the webinar and assured the participants of their support to ensure the establishment of more BPS chapters.

Notably, such engagements not only increase the visibility of MMUST but also offer the Institution numerous opportunities in the world of Biophysics.

By Linet Owuor

MMUST Researchers of French Urged to Share Research Findings for Increase in Knowledge and Awareness Regarding French

Researchers of French and students during the workshop.

MMUST’s researchers of French have been urged to share their research findings in an effort to increase knowledge of the subject as a language and create awareness of what is happening in the field of French. This was evident during a two-day workshop organized by the Department of Language and Literature Education, which saw French researchers convene to share their research findings. The event, which took place at the MMUST French Resource Centre was graced by the Dean, School of Natural Sciences (SONAS), Dr. Joseph Owino, who was representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic and Students Affairs, Prof. Hussein Golicha.

Dr. Owino addressing the participants during the event.

In his opening address, Dr. Owino stressed on the need for individuals to pursue language studies. He encouraged the participants to embrace the emerging technologies to help in their pursuit of these language skills, saying that the world has an enhanced need for enlightened citizens that are both culturally and linguistically prepared to function in today's world.

“The world has become more interdependent and new technologies have allowed us to work in close contact with people across the world. As we embrace this advantage it is very likely that our relationships with various countries will grow, hence the constant demand for us to speak a foreign language,” said Dr. Owino.

Dr. Rose Auma speaking during the event.

The Dean School of Social Sciences (SASS), Dr. Rose Auma noted that French is an area that is constantly growing and its inclusion in the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) has made it gain its importance.

“Our French unit began with one (1) student and gradually grew over the years. In the last three years, with the introduction to CBC, our enrolment of French students as a University has gone up with the smallest class having twenty-two (22) students and the highest with sixty-five (65) students. I therefore take this opportunity to encourage our researchers and teachers to join MMUST for their studies because there is going to be a demand in that area. To our students, the demand out there is more than we can produce. Rise up to the challenge and be the best in the region,” she said.

Prof. Isidore Kazadi giving his remarks during the event.

The Coordinator of the French Program and Manager of the French Resource Centre, Prof. Isidore Kazadi urged participants to utilize the resources to further research in the French language. The only Professor of French in the entire East Africa region, Prof. Kazadi is keen on the teaching and learning of the language not only in MMUST but in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, DRC Congo and Rwanda.

CoD of Language and Literature Education, Dr. Jairus Omuteche addressing the participants.

The Chairman of Department (CoD) of Language and Literature Education, Dr. Jairus Omuteche pointed out that the workshop will help the researchers to keep teachers of French abreast of what is happening in the field of French. Additionally, he also noted that it will help enhance the teaching of French as a subject in secondary schools.

Further, he echoed Dr. Auma’s sentiments saying that CBC is bringing out the relevance of French as a subject and language. “We look forward to making the study of French and the training of teachers of French a very vibrant activity in the department. We look forward to more forums of this nature that will help expand knowledge and create awareness about French in our midst,” stated Dr. Muteche.

The workshop attracted notable personalities, including; Dr. Clara Bulili, Dr. Joyce Kasili, Dr. David Wanina as well as students pursuing French Language studies. Some of the thesis findings presentations were: ‘Stratégies d'aide à la production orale: cas d'étayage dans l'enseignement du français du tourisme et de l'hôtellerie en milieu universitaire kényan.’ -Dr. David Wanina, ‘Compétences des apprenants Kenyans du FLE à travers leurs productions écrites sous formes de textes injonctifs: cas des recettes et programmes’ -Ms. Veronica Odiala and ‘Continuités et/ou discontinuités des politiques linguistiques relatifs à l'enseignement du FLE (De 1963 à 2017)’.

There was also a presentation by the Chairperson, Kenya Association of Teachers of French Western Kenya- Mr. Emmanuel Namasaka, on . The presentations continue today from 10 am in the French Resource Centre, MMUST.

By Caren Nekesa  and Sheila Ivayo 

MMUST Institute of Indigenous Knowledge and Cultural Studies Participates in the 3rd Kenya National Cultural and Tourism Festival

King Peter Mumia II of Wanga Kingdom (left), Deputy Governor of Kakamega County- H.E Ayub Savula together with other dignitaries during the opening ceremony.

The Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Institute of Indigenous Knowledge and Cultural Studies (IIKCS) is participating in the ongoing 3^rd Kenya National Cultural and Tourism Festival which commenced yesterday, 16^th March, 2023, and will end tomorrow, 18^th March 2023. The three- day festival themed, ‘Embracing Our Culture and Tourism Diversity for Socio-Economic Development’ is taking place at the Bukhungu Stadium. The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai presented on, ‘Leveraging on Traditional Medicine for Improved Health and Livelihoods’.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai making a presentation at the event.

The Deputy-Director, Dr. Lucy Mandillah, made a presentation on the ‘Role of the IIKCS in promoting Cultural Diversity and Development in the 21st Century’ on behalf of the Director, Prof. John Shiundu. During the event, IIKCS served indigenous foods of Western Kenya to the dignitaries. MMUST also utilized the opportunity to market its programs and services. The Marketing Officer, Mr. James Muriithi and Ms. Vivianne Akinyi handled queries regarding careers and admissions at the well-attended event.

The celebrations, graced by King Peter Mumia II of Wanga Kingdom, were earmarked by entertainment such as music and dance from various cultural groups, Tree planting exercise, and Nature walk at the Kakamega Forest Courtesy of Kenya Wildlife Services, as well as a brief visit of the BullFighting Arena.

The Deputy-Director, IIKCS- Dr. Lucy Mandillah and Costa Rica Ambassador - H.E. Giovanna Valverde Stark during the celebrations.

The festival attracted high personalities in the Kenyan Government including; the Cabinet Secretary (Ministry of Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts)- Hon. Ababu Namwamba, Deputy Governor of Kakamega County- H.E Ayub Savula, the Costa Rica Ambassador - H.E. Giovanna Valverde Stark, Director of Tourism Fund- Mr. Eden Odhiambo, Principal Secretary (State Department for Devolution) - Hon.Teresia Mbaika, Principal Secretary (State Department for Wildlife) - Hon. Sylvia Muhoro, Principal Secretary (State Department for Tourism) – Hon. John Ololtuaa, Director Inter-Governmental Department (Nairobi County)- Ms. Joyce Kinyanjui, Secretary General(Kenya National Commission for UNESCO)- Dr. Evangeline Njoka,  Chief Officer (Culture, Gender)- Ms. Vivian Ayuma, and Chief Officer (Ministry of Industrialization & Tourism Kakamega County)- Mr. Saxon Osore.

King Peter Mumia II (center), Registrar (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Alice Ndiema (second left) and one of the WECO Founders, Mr. Tom Shivachi serving traditional dishes at the MMUST tent.

The event was marked by presentations on topics including; ‘Enhancing Cultural Diversity for Sustainable Development’, ‘Role of Youth and sports in Promotion of Cultural Heritage’ by Mr. Kisorio Biwott CECM Department of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services-Laikipia, ‘Wildlife Conservation management in Promotion of Culture, Heritage and Tourism’ by the Kenya Wildlife Services, and ‘the Role of the Media in Preservation of Culture and Promotion of Tourism’ by the Media.

Traditional foods served by the IIKCS at the festival.

Partners of the festival include; CPF, Tourism Regulatory Authority, National Bank of Kenya, Kakamega County Government, Elgeyo Marakwet County Government, Kenindia, County Government of Bungoma, Fountain Flow, National bank of Kenya, MMUST, KSLH, TFC, Samburu County Government, Cultural council Embassy of Iran, Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya National Commission for UNESCO, Kisumu County Government, Uganda High Commission Nairobi, County Government of Machakos, UNESCO, Kilifi County Government, County Government of Trans Nzoia, Butsotso Council of Elders, Bukura Agricultural College, State Department of Devolution, Ropha Beauty SPA, Tourism fund, Agricultural Society of Kenya, DSchool Robotics, as well as the Kenya Safari Lodges and Hotels.

Hon. Ayub Savula signing visitors' books in the MMUST tent in the presence of the Registrar (Planning, Research and Innovation)- Prof. Alice Ndiema, IIKCS Deputy Director- Dr. Lucy Mandillah, and Director of Corporate Communications and Marketing- Dr. Lydia Anyonje.

Indeed, this is an expressive way to celebrate glorious heritage, culture, and traditions which helps IIKCS to become more attractive and competitive as an institute to visit, work and invest in. This will play a vital role in the development of the University through the marketing of its programs and services.

By Verna Awuor

Photos by Linet Owuor

MMUST-LFR International Conduct First Responder Training to Community Health Workers to Develop Formal Emergency Medical Services in Kakamega County

Workshop participants at MMUST’s Main Catering Unit.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, in conjunction with LFR International, an affiliate of Michigan University, has conducted a First Responder training to Community Health Workers (CHWs) in an effort to develop official Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Kakamega County. On Tuesday, 14^th March, 2023, the University, through the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedic Sciences (SONMAPS), kicked off a four-day training workshop which targeted CHWs from twelve (12) Kakamega Sub-Counties, as well as MMUST staff. The training was facilitated by the Director of Trauma Care at LFR International, Dr. Nathanael Smith.

During the official opening ceremony of the workshop, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai, pointed out that emergency response training is crucial to ensuring that healthcare providers are equipped with skills to effectively handle emergencies. “As a University, we value such training as they are tailored to improve the competence of our staff, students and members of the surrounding community. I am pleased to see that MMUST is teaming up with the County Government of Kakamega, and the University of Michigan, to empower healthcare providers in the region,” said Prof. Mutai, who was representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo.

DVC (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai gives his remarks at the MMUST- LFR International Workshop.

“First responder training is very important for not only medical experts to enhance their services, but also for each person to understand what to do in an unexpected situation,” stated the Dean SONMAPS, Mr. John Arudo. Further, Mr. Arudo said that SONMAPS is dedicated to enhancing the quality of health training at MMUST, adding that Malteser International (MI), Germany, has funded the refurbishment and equipment of the University’s high fidelity simulated laboratory.

Dr. Smith, who is also an assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine and Global Health Equity Fellow at Boston University (School of Medicine), enlightened the participants on scene safety, trauma assessment, as well as the Lay First Responder Model. “This training is the first step towards bridging gaps in prehospital emergency trauma care. Our goal at LFR International is to prevent deaths and to minimize complications of trauma patients,” he stated.

Dr. Nathanael Smith giving a presentation.

The Chairperson, Department of Paramedical Sciences, Dr. Tecla Sum, revealed that in 2021, MMUST and Michigan University used a Prehospital Emergency Trauma Care Assessment Tool (PETCAT) to evaluate the care provision in all major referral hospitals in the 47 Counties of Kenya. “Kakamega County had the lowest PETCAT score of 1.87/10. The study also found that trauma is the leading cause of deaths in Kenya, with an 87.3 mortality rate,” said Dr. Sum, adding that this particular workshop used the Training of Trainers (ToT) Model.

Other members on this project are; LFR International-Dr. Peter G. Delaney and Dr. Zachary J. Eisner; MMUST-Ms. Dinah Okwiri, Mr. Simon Ogana, Ms. Lydia Nyachiro, Ms. Doris Tuitoek and Ms. Lucy Kageha.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology has clearly demonstrated its dedication to giving back to the community, by continually imparting knowledge and skills to the residents of Kakamega County and beyond. The partnership between MMUST, the University of Michigan and its affiliates, has so far yielded great results and will undoubtedly improve the state of emergency medical services in Kenya.

By Wangari Wambugu

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

MMUST Set to Collaborate With the County Government of Kakamega in a Bid to Elevate Food Security in the County

The MMUST and County Government of Kakamega teams posing for a group photo.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology on 14^th March, 2023, held a meeting with a delegation from the County Government of Kakamega in a bid to elevate food security in the County. This came after the second (2^nd) Governor’s Day with the farmers of Kakamega County which saw MMUST’s School of Agriculture, Veterinary Science, and Technology (SAVET) identified as a stakeholder for the provision of training of farmers and extension staff in the County. The meeting held at the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research, and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai’s Office, was geared towards collaborative efforts in addressing sustainable smart farming, food, and nutrition security as well as improved livelihoods. The team then paid a courtesy call to the office of the Vice Chancellor.

The University is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, Cooperatives, Livestock, Veterinary Services, and Fisheries. The discussions, aimed at promoting best farming practices in the County, were based on the following areas of concern; ‘Limited Access to Extension Officers’, ‘Access and Control of Land especially for Grass Root Women and Youth’, ‘Lack of Representation of Farmers on Key Agricultural Committees’, ‘Lack of Resources to Convene Farmers in Setting their Priorities’, ‘Acidic Non- Productive Soils in the County’, and ‘Lack of an Enabling Environment for Farmers to Improve their Livelihood’.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria Thuo speaking during the courtesy call.

Speaking during the event, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria Thuo, who was representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo noted that agriculture is key to people’s welfare. He added that through this initiative, MMUST will improve agricultural production which will serve the University as well as the community.

“I urge the University scholars to tap into such practices to change the lives of the community. We shall involve the County in outreach activities to foster healthy agricultural practices that will benefit both the University and the community,” he stated.

According to Prof. Mutai, such collaborations are key to the development of the County. For this reason, he guaranteed the delegation that the University will work with the County to fulfill the farmers' interest and thus improve livelihoods. He acknowledged that this is one of the ways of utilizing University scholars in the area of Agriculture.

“We are ready for this collaboration. We shall engage our final-year students to help them gain hands-on skills by working with farmers around the University in managing agricultural practices. Let us work together to achieve this,” urged Prof. Mutai. He advocated for a general MOU with the county government and reinstatement of the agribusiness expo to bring farmers together to exchange ideas.

Prof. Mutai addressing the participants during the visit.

The delegation from the County Government included; the Director of Agriculture- Mr. Titus Omengo, the Chief Officer of Agriculture- Mr. Bill Silingi, and the Chief Officer of Livestock and Veterinary Services- Dr. George Barack Otieno. Dr. Otieno pointed out that such an initiative empowers farmers enabling their voices to be heard. He revealed that the County Government is committed to integrating MMUST as a hub for experts in the area of applied research which is key to the success of the project.

“We endeavor to address the needs of our farmers. As one of the key indicators of the development agenda, this project will support the provision of food security not only in the county but also in the nation. I believe the partnership shall ensure proper utilization of resources for the development of the County,” said Dr. Otieno.

The delegation from the County Government of Kakamega.

The delegation was received by the Dean SAVET, Prof. Jacob Wakhungu, and Lecturer in the Department of Agriculture and Land Use Management, Dr.  Muleke Everlyne Mmbone. Prof. Wakhungu stated that farmers have challenges in getting quality, certified, and disease-free seeds which affects their yields. “It is crucial to engage the farmers in farming practices to enhance their skills in the practice. Working with the county is key to achieving this. Such initiative will enable us to benefit the community in enhancing food security,” he stated.

The partners set to work on this mission are; the County Government of Kakamega, MMUST, MM- Kilimo, Kakamega County Farmers Association (KACOFA), Kakamega Youth Agripreneurs, and Shisuye Community Health Workers.

The participants at the DVC Planning, Research and Innovation’s Office.

Certainly, this is a timely venture when farmers are facing challenges emanating from the effects of climate change around the globe. Such integration will ensure improved income and nutrition among the farmers for more efficient use of unused or underused farming resources. The integration also has the potential to counteract the effects of environmental degradation.

 By Verna Awuor

Photos by Shiundu Masafu

MMUST Support Staff Undergo Capacity Building Training on Skills, Retirement and Culture Change for Improved Service Delivery

Participants of the training at the Farm View Hotel, Busia.

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) Support Staff underwent capacity building training on skills, retirement, and culture change from 9^th to 10^th March 2023 at the Farm View Hotel, Busia. The aim of the training was to equip them with the skills and behavior change for improved service delivery at the University. This phase I training organized by the Human Resource Department drew participants working in various sections of the University including Assistant Clerks, Masons, Janitors, Kitchen Attendants, Grounds men, Artisans, and Office Assistants.

The training was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo who appreciated the staff for their hard work and commitment. He urged them to uphold core values such as integrity, professionalism, and collegiality while serving in their respective sections. The Vice-Chancellor stressed decent dressing and office etiquette as key considerations at the workplace.

Front row: The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, and a section of the trainees following presentations of the training.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), Prof. John Kuria Thuo, encouraged the staff to embrace teamwork and be procedural while addressing issues affecting them at work.  He added that time management is key to effective and efficient work outcomes.

In his presentation, ‘Disciplinary Processes and Staff Welfare Issues’, Mr. Josephat Shigogodi who represented the Registrar Administration, pointed out that discipline is the pillar of healthy industrial relations, and that the promotion and maintenance of employee discipline is critical for the smooth functioning of an organization. He emphasized proper service delivery at all cadres of professionalism. In addition, he advised the employees to embrace cultural diversity in the workplace.

According to the Assistant Registrar of Administration, Mr. Gregory Muluta, such training is key to improved performance and knowledge of Human Resources procedures. He noted that the fundamental indicators of positive employee productivity are positive attitude and behavior as well as knowledge of employee rights. Therefore, these are key drivers to effective and efficient work performance as required by the University.

A section of the training participants.

The participants were trained on various topics including; ‘Organization Culture & Behavior Change’- by Dr. Noel Malanda, ‘Records Management, Planning & Organizing Skills’- by Ms. Ruth Omega, ‘Occupation, Health &Safety’- by Mr. Gregory Lidzanga, ‘Time Management, Stress Management, Counselling Skills & Critical Thinking Skills’- Prof. Kenneth Otieno, ‘Career Progression, Training &Placement’- Mr. Silas Magonya, ‘Communication Skills and Protocol Etiquette’, ‘Public Relations and Customer Care Skills’- Dr. Lydia Anyonje, ‘Team Building Skills’- Ms. Edna Kwamboka and ‘Psychological Planning for retirement and Financial Management’- CPA Jared Rading.

Other notable personalities present were; Ms. Lilian Andeyo, Mr. Kipkemboi Chebii, Mr. Felix Ajuoga, Mr. Douglas Shimonyere, Ms. Linet Tuyia, and Ms. Joyce Afuma.

Indeed, such training minimizes an over-reliance on experts as sources of knowledge, resources, and solutions to issues affecting the University. This discourages dependency relationships, therefore encourages the support staff to take action on local issues among them in order to increase productivity at the workplace.

 By Verna Awuor

Photos by Shiundu Masafu