In a remarkable demonstration of community engagement and mentorship, the alumni, staff and students from Mount Kenya University’s (MKU) College of Health Sciences visited Kaharo Girls High School in Murang’a County last weekend for a career mentorship programme and the celebration of World Menstrual Health Day 2026.

The team was received by the school’s principal Veronica Kihonge. Mrs Kahonge encouraged the 700 students to take full advantage of the opportunity to learn from professionals from diverse backgrounds and university students present.

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

The principal who lauded MKU for investing in the future of young women through mentorship and education. She encouraged the students to interact with professionals from diverse fields and learn from their experiences.

The initiative brought together professionals, university students and educators with a common goal: empowering young girls to pursue their dreams while promoting health, dignity and confidence.

The students of Kaharo Girls welcomed the MKU delegation. Excitement filled the school as each member of the visiting delegation introduced themselves, shared their academic backgrounds and highlighted their respective courses and career journeys. The interaction provided the students with invaluable exposure to various professions and educational pathways.

The keynote address was delivered by Director of Alumni Relations Virginia Kinankau, who challenged the students to pursue their dreams with determination and purpose.

Using the acronym ‘Dream’, she encouraged the learners to be diligent and disciplined (D), reach for excellence (R), embrace opportunities (E), adopt a positive attitude and make a difference in the school and in communities they live in.

She emphasised that success is achieved through hard work, resilience and a commitment to continuous growth and learning. The students also participated in an intensive career guidance session where they received valuable insights into various career options, academic requirements, and career pathways.

“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 interactive discussions enabled the learners to gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities available to them and the steps they can take to achieve their career goals.

The interaction offered students a rare opportunity to explore different career paths and gain a clearer understanding of the educational requirements needed to achieve their aspirations.

The learners also participated in career guidance sessions where professionals and university students shared practical advice on academic choices, career pathways and the opportunities available in different fields. The interactive discussions provided valuable guidance as the students begin making decisions about their future careers.

In recognition of World Menstrual Health Day 2026, the girls were taken through a comprehensive menstrual health and period safety session. The facilitators emphasizsed the importance of proper hygiene practices, good nutrition and self-care during menstruation.

Facilitators addressed topics often surrounded by stigma, including menstruation, menstrual hygiene, period management and emotional wellness. Medical student Kahagi Morris challenged the girls to become champions of menstrual health within their communities.

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

“I wanted the girls to see a future where they understand their bodies, embrace their periods with confidence and protect both their menstrual health and mental well-being. When you educate one girl, she goes on to educate her sister, her friend, and eventually her entire community,” Kahagi noted.

The students were also encouraged to embrace their periods with confidence, dignity and without shame, while understanding that menstrual health is a normal and important aspect of overall well-being.  The students were encouraged to view menstruation as a normal and healthy part of life and to practice proper hygiene, nutrition, and self-care. The session also emphasized the importance of breaking societal taboos surrounding menstrual health and creating supportive environments for girls.

The highlight of the day came when all 700 students received two packets of sanitary towels each. The donation was received with immense gratitude and appreciation by both the students and staff of Kaharo Girls.

“The contribution will go a long way in supporting menstrual hygiene management and ensuring that the girls can continue their education with confidence and dignity,” the principal said.

The outreach activity underlined MKU’s commitment to community service, mentorship and empowering young people through education, health awareness and practical support.

Through such mentorship, health education and community partnerships, MKU management says it expects to empower the next generation “one student, one dream and one community at a time.”

• A Tell Media report / By James Wakahiu