On February 14th, 2025,The Eldoret National Polytechnic (TENP) marked a memorable Valentine’s Day celebration that went beyond traditional expressions of love. This year, love took on many beautiful and meaningful forms as the Polytechnic hosted an impactful Disability Mainstreaming session followed by a shared meal with the vibrant and inspiring community of people with disabilities (PwD) at HIM Restaurant.
The day’s events were a testament to the Polytechnic’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all individuals, regardless of their abilities, are celebrated and supported. The Disability Mainstreaming session was designed to raise awareness about the challenges and potential of PwD, promoting understanding and equality within society. The event brought together a diverse group of individuals, including students, staff, and local community members, who shared their experiences and insights on how to better integrate PwD into various facets of life, both at the Polytechnic and in the wider community.
The event was honored by several notable guests, each of whom played an important role in advancing disability inclusion. Mrs. Penina Ogutu, the Deputy Principal of Academics, was in attendance to show her full support for this meaningful initiative. Uasin Gishu County MCA, Regina Chumba, brought her leadership and advocacy for PwD to the event, underscoring the importance of local government involvement in ensuring equal opportunities. Kimutai Kibowen, the NCPWD North Rift Coordinator, offered insights into the ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and services for people with disabilities in the region. Disability Inclusion Chairman, Zack Koech, shared his passion for inclusion, and DHRO Kiptanui provided key strategies for enhancing inclusive practices at the Polytechnic.
The event also saw the participation of PwD Student President, J Purity, who represented the student body’s perspectives and highlighted the need for continued support and advocacy for students with disabilities. Their stories and contributions helped to create a heartfelt atmosphere that emphasized the power of love, empathy, and respect. The shared meal at HIM Restaurant gave the guests and the PwD community a chance to bond, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed, supportive environment.
As the day continued, the team shifted focus to another vital initiative—spreading love and care to those in need at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH). The delegation made a heartfelt visit to the Emergency Department and Sergoit Ward to offer their support to accident victims and patients facing challenging circumstances. The team’s gestures of kindness, including gift-giving and words of encouragement, helped bring some light into the lives of those recovering from trauma.
The group’s visit was warmly welcomed by Madam Consolata, the MTRH Public Relations Officer, and her team, who worked alongside the visitors to ensure that the experience was impactful for both the patients and the visitors. The shared compassion and connection during the visit demonstrated the true spirit of Valentine’s Day: a time to not only love those closest to us but to extend that love to those who need it most. The smiles on the patients’ faces, the conversations that took place, and the moments of genuine care exemplified the profound impact that love, in all its forms, can have on healing and well-being.
The day was a beautiful reminder that love is not limited to romantic gestures but is found in the simple act of showing up for others, in sharing time, resources, and kindness. The delegation’s visit to MTRH reinforced the significance of these small acts of compassion, reminding everyone that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued.
As the day came to a close, the Polytechnic community reflected on the deep meaning of the events and the positive changes they hope to continue creating. There was a collective sense of pride in the work being done to promote disability awareness and inclusivity. The Polytechnic leadership expressed their eagerness to host more Disability Awareness sessions and continue engaging in activities that uplift and empower those who may feel marginalized.
A Heart Full of Care, Compassion, and Inclusion
The day concluded with a feeling of warmth and hope in the hearts of all those who participated. The Polytechnic’s ongoing efforts to break down barriers, foster understanding, and create a truly inclusive environment for all its students and staff left everyone with a renewed sense of purpose. The partnerships and initiatives ignited on this special Valentine’s Day serve as a reminder that love and inclusion should extend to every corner of our communities.
At Eldoret National Polytechnic, hearts are full—not just for Valentine’s Day, but every day, as the commitment to making a difference continues to grow and inspire.
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