TU-K joined universities, government agencies, students and other stakeholders in reviewing the Kenya Health Promoting Campus draft framework aimed at strengthening health and wellbeing in higher and tertiary education institutions across Kenya.
The consultations were held at the Machakos University Conference and Training Centre from 29th September to 1st October 2026, under the theme, “Our Rights, Our Lives, Our Future” (O3 PLUS). The forum was organised by the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM) in collaboration with UNESCO, with Prof. Reuben Mutegi serving as Lead Consultant.
TU-K was represented by Dr. Ali Adan, Senior Assistant Registrar in the Directorate of Student Support Services, who joined representatives from line Ministries and State Departments, the Council of Governors, university and TVET associations, higher and tertiary education institutions, civil society organisations and student leaders.
The stakeholders reviewed and proposed improvements to the draft framework, which seeks to provide a coordinated approach to promoting healthy, safe and inclusive learning environments for students and staff.
The participants examined international and regional frameworks, including the Okanagan Charter, the Limerick Framework for Action and the Health Promoting Campuses framework for Eastern and Southern Africa. Discussions focused on how the frameworks could be adapted to Kenya’s higher education context.
Institutions implementing O3 PLUS programmes, including the University of Nairobi and Kenya Medical Training College, also shared experiences in providing sexual and reproductive health services, mental health support, gender-responsive services and wellness programmes.
The second day focused on the Kenyan campus environment, with students sharing their experiences and identifying challenges affecting their safety and wellbeing. Key concerns included personal security, gender-based violence, mental health and counselling services, access to confidential health services, financial hardship, accommodation and disability inclusion.
The draft framework envisions “healthy, safe, inclusive and thriving” institutions where every learner and staff member can learn, belong, thrive and succeed. It is structured around eight domains covering governance, health services, sexual and reproductive health, safety, mental health, healthy lifestyles, healthy environments, and teaching, research and partnerships.
“TU-K is committed to supporting a healthy, safe and inclusive learning environment for all our students and staff, and we look forward to contributing to the framework’s finalisation and rollout,” said Dr. Adan.
The consultations are expected to inform the final framework and strengthen coordinated efforts to promote health, safety, inclusion and wellbeing across Kenya’s higher and tertiary education institutions.