Karatina University celebrated the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS) on Saturday, 23rd March 2024 at Nyangati Ward by organizing a free medical camp for people in Nyangati Ward in Kirinyaga County. The event is celebrated annually on 9th February. Together with Nyangati Diaspora Karatina university partnered with Kerugoya Fortis Hospital,Ollion Sacco, Kerugoya Medical hospital and Krishna Chemist. The event was organized by the Karatina University International Women’s Day Committee chaired by Prof. Juliet Macharia.
The medical team from Karatina University
In attendance from Karatina university the Ag. DVC P,F&A, Prof. Richard Kiai, Ag. DVC AR&SA Prof. Hellen Kamiri, Ms. Hellen Warugu, Prof. Juliet Macharia the Chairperson International Women’s Day Committee, Prof Kenneth Wanjau the Director Career Services and University Industry Linkage, Karatina University Medical team among others.
From left the Ag DVC ARSA Prof. Hellen Kamiri and the Ag. DVC P,F&A Prof Richard Kiai at the medical camp
The guest speaker Eng. Catherine Munyi shared her life journey in Engineering and being the first female engineer in Nyangati. She informed the students and the residents that their mindset is the most important strength they have. She encouraged them to focus and change their mindset. She further stated that it was important for women to be in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields because opportunities in STEM are evolving.
Engineer Catherine Munyi addressing the audience
Speaking at the event, the Ag. DVC AR&SA Prof. Hellen Kamiri appreciated the community for hosting the university and welcoming. She urged the residents to educate and motivate their daughters to venture into science.
The event was officially launched by the Deputy Vice Chancellor P, F &A Prof. Richard Kiai on behalf of the Vice Chancellor Prof. Linus M. Gitonga. In his remarks, the DVC noted that the aim of holding such medical camps is to celebrate the women and girls in science. He further stated that the university aims to benefit the communities hence the free medical camp.
The Ag. DVC P,F&A Prof. Richard Kiai addressing the audience
Led by the University Acting Medical Officer, Ms. Anne Ngochi, together with the partnering hospitals, a number of services were offered including diabetes screening, laboratory services, drug administration, breast cancer and cervical cancer screening and referrals for further management of medical issues. Over 450 people were treated.
The community thanked the institution for organizing the first medical camp in their ward and for bringing the medical services closer to the people.
Residents of Nyangati Ward waiting get treatment at the free medical camp