Egerton University is investing more in Medical scientific research by actively developing students’ research skills and coordinating various research projects in Nakuru County.
The University Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Extension Prof Bockline Bebe said the institution was supporting the young researchers to find their niche and realize their full potential courtesy of Egerton University Research Club (EUReC).
Prof Bebe cited the words of John Crosby, and said the young researchers at the institution were now finding mentors, with a brain to pick, an ear to listen and a hand to push them in the right direction.
He said besides teaching research formally in class as part of the curriculum requirements, the research Faculty members were now offering immense support and mentorship to students in their research journey.
Prof Bebe was happy that Egerton University’s Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS), was now actively molding and producing research-savvy graduates.
He appreciated the contribution of both passionate students and the
Egerton University Research Club (EUReC) Faculty members whom he said had been instrumental in cultivating a research culture and environment at the University.
He cited three club members who he said were honoured to present research abstracts at the 49th Annual KMA Scientific Conference hosted in Eldoret.
The first of the abstracts was titled; Perception and Barriers to Research among Students of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Egerton University,- a study Prof. Bebe said was co-authored by Dr Lakati K. C., Muthomi Kennedy and Mugo Peter and presented at the conference by Muthomi Kennedy.
The study he said revealed that medical students had an overall positive attitude towards research but are impended by lack of mentorship, time constraints, and lack of adequate knowledge.
“Mentorship, funding, and teaching of research are the only measures by which research can be promoted among students,” Prof. Bebe advised.
He said scientific research was essential for the advancement of science and humanity at large and was not only an engine for the generation of new knowledge but also offered a lens through which current medical practices could be examined.
He added that through constant inquisitions and scientific research, what was currently good and acceptable could be made better as medicine was constantly evolving with changes driven by evidence generated through scientific research.
Bebe emphasised the need for health professionals to develop good research skills and implement evidence-based practice for the benefit of the society as a whole.
By Esther Mwangi and Mercy Syombua
