Students from the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics at the School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS), both at the master’s and bachelor’s levels, are actively engaging in a community diagnosis project in Nanyuki. This initiative aims to collect, analyze, and provide valuable data to both the local community and county authorities. The insights gained will serve as a foundation for evidence-based policy formulation, ensuring that nutritional and health challenges are effectively addressed.
The project follows a structured approach, beginning with community entry, where students establish rapport with local stakeholders to facilitate meaningful engagement. This is followed by data collection, where students employ diverse research techniques to ensure accuracy and representativeness.
Once the data is gathered, students utilize statistical and analytical methods to interpret findings, identifying key relationships between nutrition and public health concerns. These insights form the basis for actionable recommendations aimed at improving community well-being.
Beyond analysis, the project emphasizes results dissemination, where students present their findings to both the community and relevant authorities. This step is crucial in translating research into practical solutions that can shape health policies and interventions.
Through this hands-on experience, students gain invaluable skills in research design, data collection, statistical analysis, and professional report writing. By the end of the project, they are well-equipped to undertake independent research, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world impact.
This initiative not only enhances students' competencies but also reinforces their role as change agents in public health and nutrition, contributing to sustainable, community-driven solutions.