Kisii University has launched a new daycare and lactation centre, in a significant step to support working parents among its staff and students while fostering early childhood development.
The facility, unveiled this week, aims to provide safe childcare for young families within the university community, which includes more than 610 staff members and 24,000 students.
University Council Chairperson Dr Sarah Ruto emphasised the critical importance of the first 36 months of a child’s life.
“Industrialised countries invest heavily in play and care because they know it builds a strong foundation for the future,” she said, encouraging collaboration with the School of Education to offer practical training for early childhood students.
Dr Rose Otieno, chair of the Gender Mainstreaming Committee, highlighted benefits for employee wellbeing. “An employee who is worried about their child cannot perform at their best. This centre shows the university cares for its staff,” she noted, adding that trained professionals will ensure supervised care.
Vice Chancellor Prof Nathan Ogechi described the opening as a milestone, underscoring the institution’s commitment to inclusive policies that address the needs of modern families.
The centre is expected to boost productivity and retention by easing the challenges faced by parents balancing academic or professional responsibilities with childcare. Advocates say such initiatives are vital in promoting gender equity in higher education across Kenya.
