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Machakos University Gears Up To Transform Public Health Education

Re-Inspection Marks a Defining Milestone

Machakos University is on the verge of a major leap in public health education following a comprehensive re-inspection by the Public Health Officers and Technicians Council (PHOTC) on Thursday, July 17th,2025. This critical evaluation represents a significant step towards full professional accreditation of its Public Health programme, underscoring the University’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and national service.

A Strategic Evaluation for Professional Accreditation

The high-stakes re-inspection brought together a cross-section of the University leadership, including Prof. Mugendi M’Rithaa, DVC APF, Prof. Stanley Makindi, DVC RIL, Mr Patrick Okemba, Register ASA, Dr. Julius Nzeve, Dean, School of Agriculture, Environmental and Health Sciences (SAEHS). A comprehensive analysis of the University’s conformity with national training standards was carried out by John Karuki and his team from PHOTC. The review included an examination of the University’s facilities, academic staffing, curriculum design, and student preparation with Kenya’s ever-changing health care goals.

Dr. John Kariuki and his team from PHOTC inspecting Machakos University’s facilities.

The inspection included a detailed tour of the University’s state-of-the-art public health skills laboratories, well-resourced library, and digitally enabled lecture halls. The team acknowledged Machakos University’s advanced learning environment, noting that it ranks among the best in the country for public health training.

Highlights from the PHOTC Evaluation Report:

  • Strong infrastructure with laboratories fully aligned with national standards
  • Highly qualified and motivated faculty driving knowledge and innovation
  • Well-structured field attachment programs offering vital hands-on experience
  • Substantial improvements since the previous review, leading to PHOTC approval to index current and graduates- a key step towards formal professional recognition
On the Right, Prof. Mugendi M’Rithaa, DVC APF, with the Chairman, Training Education Accreditation and Research (TEAR), Dr. John Kariuki, signing the PHOTC report.

A Future-Oriented Outlook

In spite of the fact that the preliminary report of the council lauded the tremendous progress that has been made, it also recognized other areas that require further development. These areas include enhancing academic relationships and improving program delivery in order to have a bigger influence on the community.

As a result of this comprehensive review, the University has demonstrated its unwavering dedication to academic achievement and which is a crucial step towards achieving full professional accreditation of its Public Health program.

The results of this inspection not only affirm Machakos University’s readiness for accreditation but also reinforce its role in shaping the next generation of public health professionals. As the institution continues to evolve, it remains a vital player in advancing healthcare education and delivery in Kenya.