Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), on 3rd December 2024 marked the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) with a vibrant celebration focused on empowering and amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities. Themed ‘Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,’ the event called for greater recognition of the leadership potential and contributions of people with disabilities toward building an inclusive society. The commemoration brought together staff and students, highlighting the challenges faced by persons with disabilities while showcasing the University’s ongoing efforts to create an accessible and equitable learning environment.
The event was graced by the Chief officer in charge of Service Delivery at Kakamega County- Dr. Phitalis Were Masakhwe who stressed the importance of inclusivity in leadership roles at all levels of society. “Persons with disabilities have long been overlooked in leadership and decision-making positions, yet they bring invaluable perspectives that are crucial for shaping a more equitable and sustainable future,” said Dr. Were. “Today, we are gathered here to amplify our voices as Persons with Disabilities, to acknowledge our contribution to society, and to commit to fostering an environment where every individual, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to thrive,” he added.
The Chief officer in charge of Service Delivery at Kakamega County- Dr. Phitalis Were Masakhwe speaks at the event.
Speaking during the event, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs)- Prof. Hussein Golicha (representing the Vice Chancellor), highlighted the University’s commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all students. He emphasized the significant strides MMUST has made in ensuring accessibility on campus. “The efforts we have made towards inclusion include the introduction of accessible classrooms, sign language interpreters during major events like the graduation, and specialized support services aimed at students with disabilities.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs)- Prof. Hussein Golicha speaking during the event.
Representing the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Research, and Innovation), Dr. Umulkher Ali noted that to promote inclusion, the University approved the disability mainstreaming policy to enhance the integration of students with disabilities into all aspects of university life, ensuring their equal access to education, resources, and opportunities.
“The MMUST Council officially approved the policy in response to ongoing advocacy for greater inclusivity and empowerment for students with disabilities. It marks a significant milestone in the University’s commitment to building a more accessible, supportive, and sustainable institution for all its students and staff,” stated Dr. Umulkher.
Dr. Umulkher Ali addressing the participants.
Similarly, the Director AIDS, Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit- Prof. Benedict Alala expressed his excitement over the approval of the policy, applauding the University Management for prioritizing the needs of the PWDs. “The Disability Mainstreaming Policy represents a significant commitment by MMUST to ensure that persons with disabilities are not just accommodated but empowered to thrive. As a Directorate, we have taken concrete steps to ensure that our students with disabilities have the same opportunities to succeed, lead, and contribute as their peers,” said Prof. Alala.
The Director of AIDS, Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming Unit- Prof. Benedict Alala handing over a trophy from the National competitions to DVC-ASA.
His sentiments were echoed by the Deputy Director (AIDS, Control, Gender, and Disability Mainstreaming Unit)- Dr. Rueben Ruto thanked the University Management for ensuring that they take part in celebrating the annual event.
The Patron of Disability Club- Prof. Peter Bukhala encouraged the students to share their talents with their peers by engaging in University activities. Further, he stated that the University will award students with disabilities who have performed well during the 21st graduation ceremony.
A section of participants at the event.
Attesting to the inclusivity MMUST has ensured, Mr. Patrick Shiabwanyinya, a student representing PWDs in the University Student Council, commended the University for supporting students with disabilities to participate in co-curriculum activities within and without the University. “Courtesy of the University support, we recently participated in the regional Kenya Universities Sports Federation (KUSF) games hosted at Maseno University and later progressed to the National at Kenyatta University where we emerged as position one in Sitting Volleyball and Athletics. We are proud of this achievement and we would like to request the University Management to further support us to take part in the East Africa competitions which will be held in 2025,” said Mr. Shiabwanyinya.
The other notable staff who were present at the event included Prof. Jacob Wakhungu, Dr. Edward Okaya, Ms. Jane Muriuki, Mr. Joseph Mugo, Ms. Purity Njambi, Ms. Selipher Sabatia, Ms. Adelaide Imbuka, Mr. Albert Muchesia, Ms. Gavin Nyarotso, Mr. Kennedy Anjieho, and Ms. Selina Wendo.
Certainly, through the Directorate of AIDS, Control, Gender, and Disability Mainstreaming, MMUST emphasizes diversity, empowerment, and equal opportunity as it continues to work towards creating an environment where all students, regardless of ability, can excel and contribute to society.
