MKU inspires Kaharo Girls through mentorship drive

By Lawrence Ongaro

Mount Kenya University (MKU)’s College of Health Sciences has reinforced its commitment to empowering young women through mentorship, career guidance and health education during an outreach programme at Kaharo Girls High School in Murang’a County.

The initiative, which coincided with the celebration of World Menstrual Health Day 2026, brought together MKU alumni, staff and students who engaged more than 700 learners in discussions aimed at inspiring them to pursue their academic and career aspirations while promoting health, confidence and dignity.

The team was received by the school’s principal, Mrs Veronica Kihonge, who praised the university for investing in the future of young women through mentorship and education. She encouraged the students to make the most of the opportunity by interacting with professionals and university students from different fields.

“We highly appreciate this initiative and its significance in shaping the academic and career aspirations of our learners,” she said.

Inspiring learners to pursue their dreams

A key highlight of the visit was a career mentorship session that exposed students to various academic and professional opportunities. Members of the MKU delegation introduced themselves, shared their educational backgrounds and explained their career journeys, giving learners valuable insights into different professions and educational pathways.

The keynote address was delivered by MKU Director of Alumni Relations, Ms Virginiah Kinankau, who challenged the students to pursue their dreams with determination, discipline and purpose. Using the acronym “Dream,” she encouraged them to remain diligent and disciplined, strive for excellence, embrace opportunities, maintain a positive attitude and make a difference in their schools and communities.

She reminded the learners that success requires hard work, resilience and a commitment to continuous learning.

“Your dreams are valid, but they require commitment, discipline and action. Every great achievement begins with a decision to believe in yourself and pursue your goals relentlessly,” she told the students.

The learners also participated in interactive discussions that provided practical guidance on academic choices, career pathways and the qualifications required in different professions. The sessions enabled them to gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities available and the steps needed to achieve their goals.

Breaking menstrual health stigma

As part of the World Menstrual Health Day celebrations, the students took part in a comprehensive menstrual health and period safety session. Facilitators addressed issues often surrounded by stigma, including menstruation, menstrual hygiene, period management and emotional well-being.

The discussions emphasized the importance of proper hygiene, nutrition and self-care during menstruation while encouraging the girls to embrace their periods with confidence and without shame.

Medical student Kahagi Morris urged the learners to become advocates for menstrual health within their communities.

“We talked menstrual health, menstrual hygiene, periods and period shame — conversations that are often whispered about. We broke them down without fear or shame,” he said.

He added that educating girls about their bodies and menstrual health has a ripple effect that benefits families and communities.

The students were encouraged to view menstruation as a normal and healthy part of life and to help break societal taboos that often prevent open discussions about menstrual health.

Practical support for learners

The outreach programme concluded with the distribution of sanitary towels to all 700 students, with each learner receiving two packets. The donation was warmly received by both students and staff, who described it as a significant contribution toward promoting menstrual hygiene and ensuring girls remain confident and focused on their education.

Mrs Kihonge expressed gratitude for the support, noting that it would help many students manage their menstrual health with dignity.

The outreach underscored MKU’s dedication to community service, mentorship and youth empowerment. By combining career guidance, health education and practical support, the university continues to make a positive impact on young people and strengthen its partnership with local communities.