Kibabii University in Bungoma County has added the School of Nursing to its list of courses being offered.
Speaking during the Launch, the Chief Executive (CEO), Nursing Council of Kenya, Dr Edina Tallam, confirmed that the institution had gotten a nod from the Council after putting in place the required equipment that will aid in impacting students with the requisite knowledge.
“Before the Council gives a go ahead for a University to offer nursing, it normally undertakes prior assessment that ensures the required equipment is in place,” she said.
The University joins University of Nairobi, Moi University, Kenyatta University, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Mt. Kenya University, University of Central and Eastern Africa- Baraton, as core capacity builders in Nursing Education at Degree level.
She said that the Covid-19 pandemic has put healthcare providers under immense stress hence the need for more capacity building in the School of Nursing.
Tallam said nurses and midwives have a big role to play in the area of research, clinical care and vaccine administration. “Nursing is more of a calling that requires that all guidelines are fully followed,” Tallam said.
Kibabii University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ipara Odeo, said the University has already admitted the first batch of 60 pioneer students. “I appeal to the Nursing Council of Kenya, to allow us admit up to 100 students,” he said.
Odeo said that Kibabii University has enough facilities and lecturers who will handle the nursing courses effectively.
Bungoma County Chief Executive (CECM) for Health, Anthony Walela, lauded the University for the bold step and urged students to be focused in their studies.
He said the County Government has identified “Nalondo, Mechimeru and Malakisi health facilities that will be used as attachment centres for students.
By Samwel Wafula
