Amref International University Monthly Bulletin – March 2025
March 2025 Introduction Welcome to the March 2025 edition of the AMIU News Bulletin! This month, we highlight our ongoing efforts in education, global partnerships, student-led initiatives, and impactful health discussions. From collaborative learning experiences to groundbreaking conferences, AMIU continues to drive innovation and inclusivity in healthcare education. Featured News AMIU-APS Leads Student Visit to KISE A fully student-led visit to the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) provided AMIU Physiotherapy, Community Health, Psychology, and Disability Inclusion students with an immersive learning experience. Students deepened their understanding of inclusive education, adaptive interventions, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Discussions also explored clinical rotations at KISE, ensuring future professionals gain hands-on experience. AMIU & LactaHub at #AHAIC2025 AMIU has partnered with LactaHub at the Africa Health Agenda International Conference 2025 (AHAIC2025) in Kigali to provide firsthand education on breastfeeding. A critical side event, co-hosted by AMIU and LactaHub, addressed breastfeeding interventions, ethical challenges, and the role of AI in public health equity. The Panel session was chaired by Dr Alice Lakati and Prof Stephen Muhudhia. AMIU Celebrates International Women’s Day 2025 On March 8th, AMIU marked International Women’s Day under the theme “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” We honor the resilience, achievements, and contributions of women in healthcare and beyond, reinforcing our commitment to a world free from discrimination and inequality. Department & Faculty Highlights PhysioFusion: Advancing Physiotherapy Education AMIU-APS, in collaboration with Medex East Africa and the Kenya Society of Physiotherapists (KSP), hosted PhysioFusion, bringing together students, professionals, and industry leaders. The event featured advanced electro-physical agent (EPA) training, shockwave therapy demos, research competitions, and networking opportunities with top experts. AMIU Leadership’s Benchmarking Visit to ALU The African Leadership University (ALU) hosted AMIU’s leadership, led by Amref Health Africa GCEO Dr. Githinji Gitahi , for strategic discussions on health education, student development, and capacity building. The visit explored future collaborations, including faculty exchanges and joint programs. Student Stories & Leadership Global Health Discussions with the Order of Malta AMIU hosted H.E. Wilhelm von Trott Solz, Ambassador of the Order of Malta, to discuss global health initiatives and innovative fundraising for scholarships. This partnership aims to expand healthcare solutions in Kenya and beyond. AMIU Students Shine at the 25th KMUN Conference AMIU students proudly represented the university at the 25th Kenya Model United Nations (KMUN) Conference at the UN Headquarters in Gigiri. The Student Representative Council president played a key role in high-level diplomatic discussions, showcasing AMIU’s commitment to global engagement. Partnerships & Collaborations AMIU & Family Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation: Health Entrepreneurship Academy The ‘From Idea to Impact’ workshop, led by Dr. Katharina Lichtner, provided participants with expert insights into turning innovative health solutions into sustainable enterprises. The four-day event focused on refining ideas, strengthening business models, and pitching to potential investors. Advancing SRHR: AMIU Hosts Center for Reproductive Rights Board AMIU welcomed the Center for Reproductive Rights Board (USA) for a pivotal discussion on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). Students participated in insightful presentations and panel discussions, reinforcing AMIU’s role in shaping SRHR advocacy and policy. Community Outreach & Social Impact Tackling Gender-Based Violence in Higher Education Prof. Tammary Rotich, AMIU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor, was the Guest Speaker at the launch of a study on Gender-Based Violence in Kenyan universities, conducted by Wangu Kanja Foundation, CASV, and Oxfam. AMIU remains committed to creating safe learning spaces for all. Ending TB: AMIU & Abbott Diagnostics Collaboration In observance of World TB Day 2025, AMIU is working with Abbott Diagnostics to develop eLearning resources for TB diagnostics and management in primary healthcare settings. The initiative will begin in select counties before expanding nationwide. Achievements & Milestones Health Entrepreneurship Pitching Competition Following the ‘From Idea to Impact’ workshop, participants pitched their groundbreaking health solutions in a competitive session judged by industry experts. Swiss Ambassador H.E. Mirko Giulietti honored the top team, with Nutrimama, Mazingira Afya, and Mama Tuk emerging as the leading social enterprises. Closing Remarks: AMIU at #AHAIC2025 AMIU is proud to co-host a side event with LactaHub at #AHAIC2025. Join us on March 4th, 2025, from 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM CAT in Kigali, as we explore Breastfeeding Interventions: Navigating Ethical Challenges to Ensure Equity with Public Health Ethics Framework. Amref International University – Developing fit-for-purpose leaders for Africa’s primary health care.
Amref International University Monthly Bulletin – February 2025
February 2025 Introduction In this edition, we celebrate AMIU’s commitment to advancing health sciences through impactful lectures, partnerships, and academic exchange programs. We also recognize trailblazing pioneers like Dr. Roy Shaffer, whose legacy continues to inspire. Additionally, we highlight our sustainability initiatives and collaborative efforts towards global health security. Read on for the latest updates from AMIU. 1. Featured News Prof. Dr. Fadul Nada’s Eye-Opening Public Lecture Prof. Dr. Fadul Nada delivered an insightful lecture at AMIU Auditorium, focusing on bridging the gap between knowledge and practice in community health. The session, hosted by the School of Public Health and the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, engaged both in-person and online attendees, sparking meaningful discussions on innovative approaches in the field. Celebrating Dr. Roy Shaffer’s 100th Birthday AMIU and Amref Health Africa honored Dr. Roy Shaffer, a pioneer in community health, as he turned 100! A foundational figure in Amref’s early years, Dr. Shaffer established the first Community-Based Health Care (CBHC) program and launched the iconic Dr. Amref radio program. The event, graced by AMIU VC Prof. Joachim Osur and Amref Health Africa Group CEO Dr. Githinji Gitahi, celebrated his enduring impact on global health. 2. Department & Faculty Highlights Global Health Security Post-Summit Workshop Following the East African Region Global Health Security Summit 2025, AMIU hosted the first post-summit workshop. Experts, including Dr. Immanuel Nzai (Kenya Vision 2030), Dr. Judy Kose (Africa CDC), and Dr. Wycliff Onkoba, led discussions on curriculum development to strengthen regional health security through education and collaboration. Brighton University Exchange Program Feedback Session AMIU welcomed University of Brighton students for a feedback session on their exchange studies and clinical placement. This initiative bridges theory and practice, empowering students with hands-on experience in Physiotherapy and health sciences. 3. Student & Alumni Stories Football Scout & Biographer Visit AMIU As part of the build-up to Dr. Roy Shaffer’s centennial celebrations, the AMIU Heritage Office hosted football scout Thomas Legg and renowned editor Caleb Atemi. They shared valuable insights with students, reinforcing AMIU’s deep-rooted heritage in health sciences. 4. Partnerships & Collaborations Amref Health Africa Ethiopia Staff Visit AMIU hosted 13 staff members from Amref Health Africa Ethiopia for capacity-building training on Health Financing and Strategic Health Purchasing. Facilitated by Amref HQ, this session provided exposure to Amref’s diverse resources supporting health system growth in Sub-Saharan Africa. Grandson of AMREF Founder Visits AMIU Nicholas McIndoe Walters, grandson of AMREF co-founder Sir Archibald McIndoe, visited AMIU’s Northlands Campus. His visit emphasized AMIU’s mission of empowering transformative health leaders and sustainability. Key discussions revolved around scholarships, partnerships, and strengthening the AGAAN network. 5. Community Outreach Sustainability Through Tree Planting Nicholas McIndoe Walters planted trees at AMIU’s Northlands Campus, supporting environmental conservation. This initiative aligns with AMIU’s commitment to sustainability and creating a greener future. 6. Achievements & Milestones AMIU Open Week (Feb 17-21, 2025) AMIU’s Open Week provided prospective students a firsthand experience of the university’s state-of-the-art facilities and accommodation options. Attendees explored university-owned hostels and partnerships with Qwetu and Qejani Hostels, shaping their academic journey with world-class resources. 7. Closing Remarks AMIU at #AHAIC2025 AMIU is proud to partner with LactaHub to host a side event at #AHAIC2025 in Kigali on March 4, 2025, from 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM CAT. Join us as we explore “Breastfeeding Interventions: Navigating Ethical Challenges to Ensure Equity” through a Public Health Ethics Framework. Stay tuned for more updates! Amref International University – Developing fit-for-purpose leaders for Africa’s primary health care.