URGENT CALL TO ACTION: IMPROVE HEALTH STANDARDS AT MOI UNIVERSITY.

Over the years, Moi University has stood out as a beacon of academic excellence in Kenya and globally, nurturing young minds and contributing significantly to the nation’s intellectual capital. However, behind the veneer of academic prowess lies a critical issue that demands immediate action: the subpar health standards within the institution. From poor hygiene conditions in hostels to an underequipped university hospital, the current state of health affairs at Moi University is unacceptable and requires an urgent intervention.

The recent tragic incident involving the loss of a senior lecturer in the school of Information Sciences paints the urgency of this matter. According to Mr. Musakali Juma, a lecturer in the same school, the late Dr. Jane Malel had joked of having slight breathing difficulties when she reported to work in the morning of Wednesday, March 20. Moments later, Dr. Malel is said to have collapsed while heading to a class. Efforts to get her to a hospital in Eldoret town by an ambulance were futile as she is said to have succumbed enroute. Heartbreaking!

The geographical location of Moi University presents unique challenges in accessing specialized healthcare services, especially during emergencies. Well, its commendable that the once pathetic access road from main campus to Cheptiret junction has been renovated. However, given the considerable distance between main campus and Moi Teaching & Referral, or any other hospital in Eldoret town for that matter, it is imperative that the university invests in easily accessible and efficient healthcare facilities within its vicinity.

I want to state here for an umpteenth time that the university hospital is in dire need of improvement. It ought to be equipped with the right personnel, modern medical equipment and a sufficient supply of pharmaceuticals. Remember the last time I visited the facility? It’s unprofessional witnessing the personnel there basking in the sun telling stories, while you wait on them to serve you!

PHOTO: MOI UNIVERSITY AMBULANCE | Moi University website

This includes bolstering Kesses Sub-county hospital, which is the nearest referral facility that can handle critical cases like emergencies. In addition, the hospital bears a significant responsibility in providing essential healthcare services to both the university community and the surrounding local population. Moi University is a pivotal institution in this region. It bears a responsibility not only to educate, but also to ensure the health and safety of its community.

Again, the university ambulance has to going forward be well-equipped with lifesaving equipment and staffed by well trained professionals. The ambulance should serve as a crucial lifeline for emergencies on campus, ensuring a swift and efficient transportation to medical facilities when need arises. No student or staff should ever feel helpless in the face of a medical emergency due to the above mentioned. 

Above all, addressing the appalling hygiene conditions within the university premises is paramount. It’s no secret that many hostels lack basic sanitation facilities like decent toilets, thereby exposing resident students to various health risks. The deplorable state of washrooms in the Students Centre, lecture halls and other public spaces cannot be ignored any longer. It’s imperative that they are kept in a usable condition at all times, with proper maintenance and regular inspections to address any issues promptly.

PHOTO: Scattered litter around a dustbin inside Moi University male hostel J |HARRY IVAN

Access to clean water is a basic right. Well, it’s again really commendable that Moi University has taken giant strides in terms of distribution and availability of adequate water around the school. However, availability of safe, drinking water is non-negotiable. It’s unacceptable that students, mostly those residing in hostels, are forced to consume water of questionable quality due to the unhygienic washrooms from where the water is fetched. Moi University must take action and do an overhaul of the water piping systems in the school. A walk around and you’ll notice most of the metallic water pipes are visibly very old, and rusty, possibly contaminating the water passing through them.

PHOTO: Moi University's male hostel L | HARRY IVAN 

As students, faculty, alumni and stakeholders of Moi University, it’s high time we address the dire need for improved health standards within our institution, a critical issue that has been neglected for long. Cleanliness is not just a matter of aesthetics; it directly impacts the health and the well- being of everyone within the university community. By ensuring proper sanitation practices, we can significantly reduce the spread of infectious diseases, and promote healthier living environment for all.

End of rant!