Machakos University Hosts the 9th Public Lecture on Stress Management

Machakos University held its 9th Public Lecture on Friday, 11th April 2025, at the University Amphitheatre, drawing participants from across the University and the larger Machakos community. The event, which ran from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM, focused on the timely and critical theme of Stress Management, providing valuable insights and practical coping strategies to enhance mental well-being among students, staff, and the general public.

The lecture was officially opened by Prof. Stanley Makindi, Deputy Vice Chancellor – Research, Innovation and Linkages, who represented the Vice Chancellor of Machakos University, Prof. Joyce Agalo. In his remarks, Prof. Makindi emphasized the University’s commitment to promoting mental health and wellness as a vital component of academic and professional success.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Pamela R.N. Kaithuru, a renowned psychologist from the Kenya Meteorological Department. Dr. Kaithuru shared expert knowledge on the causes, symptoms, and impacts of stress, as well as evidence-based strategies for stress prevention and management in academic and workplace environments.

Following the keynote address, a Plenary Session was held featuring a distinguished panel of professionals who enriched the discussion with their perspectives and experiences in the field of mental health. The panelists included:

  • Dr. Pamela Kaithuru – Psychologist, Kenya Meteorological Department
  • Mr. Vincent Kavita – Mental Health Nurse specialist
  • Mr. Wycliff Mayaka – Addiction Counselor, Drug Demand Reduction Advocate, Mental Health Advocate and Life Skills coach

The panelists explored various dimensions of stress management, including the role of self-awareness, professional counseling, institutional support systems, and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.

The successful lecture highlighted the University’s proactive approach to mental health education and its ongoing efforts to create a supportive and resilient campus environment.