Friday, December 1, 2023

The University of Nairobi commemorated World AIDS Day under the theme "Let Communities Lead" with a series of events, including the launch of the Wellness Centre at the UoN Towers, the unveiling of three Health policy documents, and a free health screening at the Main Campus. These bold initiatives are aimed at enhancing HIV prevention and promoting the well-being of the university community.

The Wellness Centre, situated on the 2nd floor of UoN Towers, aims to create a supportive environment for students, faculty, and staff. The Centre, operated by qualified staff from the University Health Service and Dean of Students office, provides services such as counseling and mental health wellness. It addresses issues ranging from stress and anxiety to academic challenges, family conflicts, and sexual health matters. The Wellness Centre began operations in May 2023, and so far about 1600 staff and students have visited the facility for support. During the launch, The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kiama, outlined the university's commitment to providing round-the-clock counseling services and investing in the well-being of students and staff, he also challenged the Dean of Students office to fully optimize operations at the center by utilizing ICT services for appointment bookings and provide telecounselling services.

In collaboration with UNESCO through the O3 PLUS PROJECT, UoN developed three crucial health policies with the overarching goal of fostering a safe and healthy environment for the university community, including students, faculty, and staff. a revised HIV Policy, which seeks to address gaps in previous approaches and create a more supportive environment for individuals living with HIV; a Sexual and Reproductive Health Policy, which provides information on safe sex practices and addresses issues such as unintended pregnancies; and a Mental Health Policy, offering support for students and staff dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.

In addition to the launch of the Wellness Centre and health policies, the UoN also launched the life skills curriculum, a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the necessary skills to navigate life successfully. The curriculum covers various aspects of life, including career development, mentorship, and counseling. The curriculum is self-paced and available online, making it accessible to all students. The Dean of Students reported the development of a revised Students' Orientation Package, which includes information on HIV/AIDS, sexual and reproductive health, mental health, and other significant topics. The aim of the package, as stated by the Dean, is to furnish new students with the knowledge and resources required to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Various dignitaries delivered remarks during the event. Dr. Lucy Kabare, the Director of University Health Services (UHS), emphasized the importance of community involvement in the fight against HIV/AIDS. She outlined UHS's initiatives covering sexual and reproductive health, mental health, and gender-based violence. On his part Prof. Walter Jaoko, the Director of the Kenya AIDS Vaccine Initiative (KAVI) Institute of Clinical Research, expressed pride in the University's achievements through the O3 Plus project. This initiative aims to empower young people to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. He stated, "Through the O3 Plus Project, we have been able to create and disseminate messages to the University Community."

Further, Mr. Brian Ouma, Chief Operations Officer, called upon the university community to support each other by sharing information about the various resources available to staff and students. He particularly stressed the importance of the three policies in combating the spread of HIV/AIDS, highlighting the connection between mental health, sexual and reproductive health, and HIV. Mr. Ouma urged stakeholders to collaborate in implementing these policies for holistic success.

Prof. Justus Munyoki, Director of Research Innovation and Enterprise, representing the VC, acknowledged Kenya's strides in HIV response. He underscored the role of communities in shaping the fight against HIV, emphasizing the need for collective efforts involving students, staff, and dependents to eliminate new infections.

Ms. Scheherazade Feddal, UNESCO Regional Director for Eastern Africa, commended the University of Nairobi's achievements, highlighting the pivotal role played by the Wellness Centre and the three comprehensive health policies. Ms. Feddal placed these accomplishments in the broader context of addressing challenges such as gender-based violence and mental health issues among young people.

Watch the Commemoration event here