Students and staff from the University of Nairobi (UON) will soon be required to test for HIV in a sexual health policy that is currently under review.
In the proposed structure, the institution also seeks to adopt a mental health policy that will enable students and staff to receive the needed assistance.
The sexual health policy if implemented will see students and staff undergoing tests and receiving treatment if necessary while those who were already under medication, continue with their prescription.
The move was welcomed by various stakeholders who noted that the decision would positively impact the students at the institution.
Lucy Muhia, who is a chief medical officer acknowledged that the policies if adopted would enhance better healthcare service delivery and subsequently promote the well-being of the institution.
“One of the areas that lacked framework and guidelines is SRHR and mental health. These policies will enhance better health service to improve the health and well-being of the university,” she said.
On his part, the institution’s Vice-Chancellor (VC) Professor Stephen Kiama affirmed that the policy would be vital in offering assistance on mental health and reducing the stigmatization of HIV.
“If someone is physically injured, it is easy for colleagues to see and offer the necessary assistance but when it comes to mental health, there is a lot of stigmas and lack of knowledge around it,” Kiama stated.
