Chuka University Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Gilbert Nduru has called on governmental and non-governmental organisations across the county to conduct trainings on mental wellness, financial saving and investment as part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to increase productivity in the society.
Speaking during a mental wellness and financial literacy seminar for leaders representing over 145 groups at Chuka University in Tharaka Nithi County, Prof. Nduru said such trainings will enable people to make appropriate judgement and enable them to handle difficulties with ease as well as avoid conflict in society.
“We want to create a society where there is peace and harmony, where people love each other and appreciate one another. When we have a mentally stable society, we can be sure of productivity,” he said.
Prof. Nduru noted that the training was part of the university’s community extension programme under corporate social responsibility (CSR), saying there was need for stakeholders to conduct more sessions with groups in the country to create mental stability and financial empowerment awareness.
“We are happy to extend this kind of training as an institution of higher learning to the community. When people are mentally stable, they are able to use their minds and knowledge appropriately. We look forward to more collaborations and sessions,” the Deputy VC said.
The University Dean of Students Dr. Benjamin Kanga called on the youth to set savings goals, distinguish between good and bad borrowing options and emphasised on the need to create savings and investment awareness amongst young people through trainings and seminars.
On his part, Assistant Dean of Students Francis Gacheru, while giving a talk on Savings and Investment Culture stated that groups are the first step to financial inclusion as they provide mechanisms to save money, while building financial knowledge and skills.
Gacheru noted that groups can be used to deliver financial education and entrepreneurship training especially in rural areas which are disadvantaged compared to urban regions.
“Groups (Chamas), associations and saccos are a bridge between entrepreneurs and access to capital and help fuel economic growth. Access to affordable credit services is essential for growth in groups in rural areas that face development problems such as lack of infrastructure and poor access to public services,” he said.
The event was organized in collaboration with Kenya Connection Kids (KCK) and Touch of Love (TOLI).
Also present was the Ag. Dean Faculty of Environmental Studies and Resource Development Dr. Jafford Njeru and the CEO Kenya Connection Kids, Humphrey Muthengi.
By David Mutwiri and Blaise Gitonga
