Kisii University has unveiled a modern daycare and lactation centre aimed at creating a more inclusive, supportive and family-friendly working environment for its staff.
The facility is expected to enhance employee productivity, promote staff well-being and improve retention by supporting working parents.
The facility, located within the university’s main campus on the outskirts of Kisii town, is designed to support breastfeeding mothers by providing a safe and comfortable space where they can care for their children while attending to their professional responsibilities.
The centre is equipped with essential amenities, including a refrigerator for breast milk storage, a microwave, running water, comfortable seating, and toys to keep babies engaged.
Speaking during the official launch, Kisii University Council Chairperson Dr. Sara Ruto said the initiative aligns with the Health Act of 2017, which requires employers to support breastfeeding mothers and their children by establishing lactation stations in workplaces.
Dr. Ruto noted that the centre goes beyond meeting statutory requirements by investing in the long-term development of children and supporting working parents during a critical phase of early childhood.
“Research shows that the first 36 months of a baby’s life are the most critical in terms of growth and development. Investing in this foundation ensures children grow steadily and healthily,” she said.
She further observed that the centre would serve not only as a welfare facility but also as a learning hub.
Dr. Ruto encouraged the Department of Early Childhood Education to utilise the facility for practical training, noting that it would bridge the gap between theory and hands-on experience.
“As part of their internships, students from the faculty can be actively engaged at the centre to learn about child growth and development during the early years,” she added.
The Council Chairperson also challenged the university management to expand the scope of the facility to accommodate students with children, saying such a move would foster an inclusive learning environment and support students balancing academic responsibilities with parenthood.
Kisii University Vice Chancellor Prof. Nathan Ogechi welcomed the initiative, saying the centre would enable working mothers to remain focused and productive, knowing their children are safe and well cared for nearby.
Prof. Ogechi emphasised the importance of breastfeeding in the growth and development of infants, noting that breast milk provides essential nutrients and immunity during early childhood.
“According to labour laws, institutions are required to have lactation centres so that children receive their mothers’ milk, which is far more beneficial than alternatives. This is critical for healthy growth and development,” he said.
The Vice Chancellor pledged to establish additional lactation stations specifically for students with children, ensuring that the university was committed to supporting learners to continue with their studies without disruption.
The University’s Gender Mainstreaming Committee Chairperson Dr. Rose Otieno, lauded the administration for championing the initiative, describing the centre as a safe, dignified and supportive space for staff and their children.
She added that the facility demonstrates the institution’s commitment to gender-sensitive policies and inclusive practices that address the diverse needs of its workforce.
The Health Act of 2017 outlines mandatory requirements for employers to support breastfeeding mothers by providing lactation stations and allowing specific break times.
Section 71 of the Act requires such facilities to be clean, well-ventilated, safe for babies, and equipped with handwashing and refrigeration facilities, among other standards.
The launch of the Kisii University daycare and lactation centre marks a significant step toward promoting work-life balance, child welfare and gender-responsive policies within higher learning institutions.
By Mercy Osongo
