On 6th June, 2026, more than 700 students at Kaharo Girls High School in Murang’a County received inspiration, career guidance, and menstrual health education when alumni, staff, and students from Mount Kenya University’s College of Health Sciences visited the school for a transformative mentorship and outreach program.
The initiative, which coincided with the commemoration of World Menstrual Health Day 2026, 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 MKU delegation was warmly welcomed by the school’s Principal, Mrs. Veronica Kihonge, who lauded the university for investing in the future of young women through mentorship and education. She encouraged the students to seize the opportunity to interact with professionals from diverse fields and learn from their experiences.
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.
Delivering the keynote address, Mount Kenya University’s Director of Alumni Relations, Ms. Virginiah Kinankau, challenged the students to dream boldly and pursue excellence in every aspect of their lives.
Using the acronym DREAM, she urged the learners to remain:
- D – Diligent and Disciplined
- R – Reach for Excellence
- E – Embrace Opportunities
- A – Adopt a Positive Attitude
- M – Make a Difference
She emphasized that success is built on hard work, resilience, and a willingness to continuously learn and grow.
“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 an engaging career guidance session 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.
A key highlight of the day was the comprehensive menstrual health awareness session held in recognition of World Menstrual Health Day 2026. Facilitators addressed topics often surrounded by stigma, including menstruation, menstrual hygiene, period management, and emotional well-being.
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.”
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 most memorable moment came when all 700 students received packets of sanitary towels. The donation was received with overwhelming gratitude and excitement from both students and staff, many of whom acknowledged the significant role such support plays in ensuring girls remain in school and manage their menstrual health with dignity.
The outreach activity reflected Mount Kenya University’s enduring commitment to community engagement, youth empowerment, and social responsibility. By combining mentorship, education, and practical support, the initiative not only inspired young learners to pursue their ambitions but also reinforced the university’s role in creating positive and lasting change in communities.
As the event concluded, the atmosphere was filled with hope, motivation, and renewed confidence among the students many of whom left inspired to dream bigger, work harder, and become future leaders capable of transforming their communities.
Through mentorship, health education, and meaningful community partnerships, Mount Kenya University continues to empower the next generation one student, one dream, and one community at a time
