The University of Nairobi has developed a policy that will see nearly all the students and staff tested for HIV in the institution.
This comes after the institution developed a Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) policy, and Mental Health Policy as well as reviewed their HIV policy that will have to go through the stakeholders before being fully adopted.
If adopted, all the students and staff will be expected to be tested and know their results.
The infected members will receive treatment, while those under medication will continue receiving treatment from the health service in the campus.
While receiving these policies, the VC Prof Stephen Kiama said they were timely as they would help in managing and assisting the youthful population that makes a better part of the institution.
“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 stigma and lack of knowledge around it,” he said.
Dr Lucy Muhia, the Chief Medical Officer, said that through the policies, the campus population would reap heavily and stay productive by understanding their health.
“One of the areas that lacked framework and guidelines is SRHR and mental health. These policies will enhance better healthcare service to improve the health and well-being of the University,” she said.