Triple Threat Integrated Health Drive at University Main Campus
Triple Threat Integrated Health Drive at the Graduation Square-Siriba, Main Campus
In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Kisumu West Sub-county, Maseno University, through the Directorate of Linkages, Outreach, and Consultancies and the AIDS Control Unit (ACU), is currently conducting a comprehensive integrated health drive at the Graduation Square, Siriba Main campus. The initiative aims to enhance access and uptake of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) information and services among university students, staff and community. The event, which commenced on November 28, 2023, will conclude on November 30, 2023. Aligned with the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence and in anticipation of World AIDS Day on December 1, this initiative addresses crucial aspects of sexual and reproductive health. It encompasses a variety of services under the event named "Triple Threat Integrated Health Drive," utilizing a holistic approach to health and well-being. The event covers:
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HIV Testing, - STI Screening and Treatment,
- Cervical Cancer Screening,
- Contraceptives including condom promotion,
- Nutritional assessment,
- Blood pressure check and random glucose test,
- Mental health screening and
- Sensitization Sessions on HIV prevention, Unintended Pregnancies, Delaying Sexual Debut, Contraceptives, Gender-Based Violence, Mental health and nutrition.
Beyond serving the university, the health drive extends its services to members of the surrounding community, underscoring the institution's commitment to the broader health and well-being of the community.
Given the challenges faced by young people, including University students, in sexual and reproductive health (SRH). The country is grappling with a triple threat, marked by an increase in new HIV infections among young people, a surge in teenage pregnancies, and a rise in gender-based violence (GBV). The event addresses these critical issues. Improved access to HIV testing and educational resources is paramount for reducing new infections and promoting responsible sexual behaviour (Ministry of Health Kenya, 2020). Teenage pregnancies, a hindrance to Kenya's education system, causing disruptions in academic pursuits and perpetuating poverty, are addressed through the comprehensive health drive, offering essential information on contraception to potentially alleviate the burden of unintended pregnancies among the university students. The prevalence of gender-based violence in Kenya, disproportionately affecting women and young people (UN Women, 2020) is acknowledged. The university community plays an instrumental role in addressing this problem by raising awareness and offering support services to its community
