Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has received a donation of Ksh. 50,000 cheque from the African Institute for Capacity Development (AICAD) to support student and disability inclusion. The donation was presented during a two-day undergraduate students’ mentorship programme, which was organized by MMUST’s Directorate of AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming in collaboration with AICAD on 18th and 19th June, 2026 at MCU 002. The aim of the event was to equip students with practical life skills to complement their academic training, leadership, and professional development in readiness for the job market.
The Programme Officer, AICAD, Mr. Geoffrey Rotich (left), Ms. Ms. Eunice Wairimu, from AICAD hand over 50,000 dermy cheque to Prof. Benedict Alala and Dr. Reuben Rutto.
Speaking during the official opening of the event, the Director AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming, Prof. Benedict Alala, who represented the DVC (Planning, Research and Innovation), observed that success in today’s world requires more than academic qualifications. “A university degree alone is no longer a golden ticket. Today’s graduates must combine technical competence with resilience, financial literacy, ethical leadership and adaptability to remain competitive,’ he said.
Prof. Alala urged students to make the most of the mentorship programme by actively engaging with the facilitators and taking advantage of the diverse expertise shared during the sessions. “When you transition into the world of work, you must strive to make a meaningful impact. Listen keenly, ask challenging questions and acquire skills that will enable you to excel wherever you go,” read the DVC PRI’s speech.
The Director AIDS Control, Gender and Disability Mainstreaming, Prof. Benedict Alala engaging the students during the event.
“Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology is one of AICAD’s valued partner universities in Kenya. Our collaboration is anchored on a shared commitment to capacity development, research, innovation, technology transfer, and community transformation,” said the Programme Officer, AICAD, Mr. Geoffrey Rotich. He emphasized that today's employers seek graduates who possess not only academic credentials but also integrity, creativity, emotional intelligence, communication skills and leadership abilities.
“This mentorship programme has therefore been designed to equip you with practical life skills that will help you navigate both your academic journey and your future careers,” he added.
The Programme Officer, AICAD, Mr. Geoffrey Rotich making his remarks.
Commenting on AICAD’s commitment to inclusive education, Mr. Rotich announced the donation of Kshs. 50,000 cheque to MMUST’s Disability Mainstreaming Unit to enhance mobility and participation of students living with disabilities. “We believe that education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of physical ability,” he noted.
The Registrar (Planning Research and Innovation), Dr. Collins Matemba speaking to the students.
The Registrar (Planning, Research and Innovation), Dr. Collins Matemba challenged students to continuously develop themselves beyond the classroom by acquiring market-driven skills.
“Academic qualifications alone may not secure employment. You must strategically pursue additional skills and opportunities that distinguish you from other job seekers,” he advised.
Representing the Office of the Dean of Students, Ms. Miriam Kimani welcomed the mentorship initiative, saying that it is an important extension of classroom learning.
“We are privileged to have this mentorship at MMUST. I believe that the knowledge and experiences shared here will positively shape our students by complementing the skills they acquire in class and nurturing them into well-rounded graduates,” she said.
Students engaging in practical activities during the event.
Key topics covered during the mentorship included, ‘Time management, examination preparation, Academic integrity and responsible use of AI’, ‘Psychological wellness, stress, anger and Ego management’, ‘Financial literacy and personal security’, ‘Career planning, job search and improving employability’, ‘University adjustment, relationship and Interpersonal skills’ ‘Innovation, entrepreneurship & opportunities’ and ‘Leadership, Ethics, Integrity and civic engagement’.
Certainly, MMUST is keen to nurture graduates who are academically competent, innovative and well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to national and global development.
Story by Caren Nekesa, Lucy Olang’o and Gerald Steve
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
