As part of their academic journey, students from various institutions in Kenya have gained practical knowledge through attachments, what we in the USA would call an internship. These experiences have been both challenging and rewarding, providing these students with valuable lessons and insights in their chosen fields. Here are the stories of four students currently on attachment: Janet Mwikali, Irene Wairimu, Charles Masinde, and Margret Wambui.
Janet Mwikali: Teaching Practicum at Kiteta Boys Secondary School
As part of her coursework as a second-year Bachelor of Education student at the University of Embu, Janet Mwikali is currently completing her teaching attachment at Kiteta Boys Secondary School. Her tasks involve both observation and active participation in teaching classes, as well as co-curricular activities, including games, Christian Union rallies, guidance, and counseling sessions.
Janet has found Kiteta Boys School to be a well-organized institution with disciplined students and a supportive staff. During her time, she has learned to create lesson plans, manage a classroom, and maintain a friendly yet professional relationship with students and colleagues. This attachment has provided her with a solid teaching and classroom management foundation, setting her up for success once she graduates.
Irene Wairimu: Education Practicum at Bookshine High School
Irene Wairimu is pursuing a Bachelor of Education degree focusing on Mathematics and Chemistry. She is currently attached to Bookshine High School, where her time is spent observing her mentor teacher, documenting various practices, and learning how to interact with students.
Her experience at Bookshine has been positive, allowing Irene to gain essential skills in classroom management, overseeing student revision (tutoring) sessions, and ensuring students are engaged in productive activities in the classroom. This opportunity has reinforced Irene’s passion for teaching and given her practical knowledge on how to manage a classroom effectively.
Charles Masinde: Nursing and Public Health at Karatina Hospital
Currently working to gain practical experience for his degree in Nursing and Public Health, first-year Kenyatta University student Charles Masinde is attached at Karatina Hospital. His responsibilities include administering medications, performing sponge baths and bed changes, monitoring vital signs, and assisting with admissions and discharges.
Charles has also learned several valuable medical procedures, like catheterization and cannulation. Throughout his time at the hospital, he has experienced the joy of discharging healthy patients and the sorrow of losing patients. The breadth of experiences has improved his confidence when presented with challenges, such as patients refusing medication or questioning his qualifications as a student.
Margret Wambui: Public Health at Migwani Sub County Hospital
To supplement her classroom learning, Margaret, a second-year Bachelor of Science in Public Health student at Chuka University, is attached to Migwani Sub County Hospital in Kitui County. Her duties involve monitoring the health status of the community, checking sanitation, and building health awareness in and around the community.
Margret’s experiences have highlighted the importance of early health monitoring and intervention. She has enjoyed boosting her confidence in public speaking by visiting high schools to promote health awareness. Despite Margret’s concern she would encounter harsh conditions in Kitui, she has found the experience enriching and different from what she anticipated.
Getting out of the classroom has allowed each of these students to experience unique challenges and triumphs. The various experiences have deepened the students’ understanding of their respective fields, while also enhancing their practical skills. From managing classrooms to providing critical healthcare, these attachments have helped prepare our students for their future careers, highlighting the importance of hands-on learning in professional development.