Amref International University Monthly Bulletin – April 2025
Introduction In this edition, we celebrate AMIU’s continued impact in health innovation, global partnerships, community engagement, and digital learning. From international symposiums to student mentorship, the AMIU community continues to shape Africa’s public health landscape. Featured News AMIU at the Forced Migration & Resettlement SymposiumAMIU’s Director, Research and Community Extension Dr. Alice Lakati, and Executive Dean, School of Medical Sciences Dr. Lucy Njiru, and Mr. Patrick Okwarah represented AMIU at the 2025 Forced Migration & Resettlement Symposium at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, sharing critical research on health and migration. From Idea to Impact – Health Entrepreneurship AwardsThe first cycle of the ‘From Idea to Impact’ program, powered by the AMIU Health Entrepreneurship Academy and the Family Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation, concluded with a powerful award ceremony. The second cycle is now underway. Department/Faculty Highlights World Health Day 2025 – Celebrating Healthy BeginningsOn #WorldHealthDay, AMIU reaffirmed its legacy in public health training, aligned with this year’s theme: Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures. Co-Creation of Diagnostic Courses with Amref Regional LaboratoryA dynamic collaboration to enhance training in medical laboratory diagnostics, aligned with global health security goals. PEP Project Scaling DiscussionsTogether with Københavns Universitet, AMIU explored scaling the PEP project to other Kenyan institutions, focusing on NCDs and Online Blended Learning. Student Stories Cesariana Rangiyon – Serving Marsabit, Studying OnlineThrough AMIU’s ODeL platform, Cesariana has excelled in her Diploma in Community Health while working on-ground during a major polio vaccination drive. Physiotherapy Students Get International Training in Manual HandlingAMIU and the University of Brighton launched Kenya’s first research placement on safe patient handling—a “career-saving” experience for students. From Alumni to MentorThrough the AMIU Alumni Association, Beryl continues to shape the next generation of health leaders by mentoring and advocating for community health. Partnerships and Collaborations New Global Partnership with University of British ColumbiaAMIU signed a Statement of Cooperation with UBC’s School of Population and Public Health, paving the way for joint research, student exchanges, and academic innovation. Northeastern University Boston Students Visit AMIUA reflection session capped off a week of immersion into Kenya’s physiotherapy landscape with visiting U.S. students. Community Outreach Celebrating Dr. Marlene LongAMIU Heritage paid tribute to Dr. Marlene Long of AMREF Flying Doctors, honoring her decades-long contribution to health service and education across Africa. Achievements and Milestones VC Prof. Joachim Osur – A Trailblazer in SRHROne of only two reproductive health professors in Kenya, Prof. Osur continues to lead AMIU’s mission in SRHR through policy advocacy, education, and innovation. ODeL Milestones Under Dr. Matiangi’s LeadershipFrom CUE accreditation to strategic partnerships, AMIU’s ODeL department has grown into a continent-wide hub for accessible and impactful health education. Closing Remarks AMIU x LactaHub in May 2025Join AMIU as we partner with LactaHub for a powerful free online workshop on Empowering Health Education through clinical breastfeeding imagery! 6th May 2025 3:00pm London | 5:00pm EAT Amref International University – Developing fit-for-purpose leaders for Africa’s primary health care.