The Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) celebrated a momentous occasion with the official launch of two impactful books authored by Dr. Madiha Salim, Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. The double book launch attracted educators, government officials, staff, and students, all gathered to recognize her outstanding contribution to mental health and career guidance in Kenya.
The Chief Guest, Prof. Laila Abubakar, Vice Chancellor of TUM, led a distinguished group of leaders and dignitaries. Among those present were Dr. Mbwarali Kame, CECM for Education, Mombasa County; Hon. Omar Mwinyi, Member of Parliament for Changamwe; Mr. Ramadhan, Chair of the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KESSHA), Mombasa Chapter; Mr. Masibo, County Mombasa Director of Education and Secretary of the County Education Board; Mr. Khamis Mohammed, Director of Sheikh Khalifa Secondary School, Dr. Audi, the publisher; as well as the TUM Chair of the Department of Communication Studies, Mr Ngare, and the Chair of the Department of Social Sciences, Mr.Odhiambo.
The first book, "Afya ya Akili," written in accessible Swahili, offers a vital guide on how to nurture and protect mental health. It breaks down complex psychological issues into simple, relatable language for the public. The book explains different types of mental health conditions, their symptoms, and how to identify early signs, filling a critical gap in awareness at the community level.
The second title, "Empowering Futures: A Handbook for Career Guidance in Schools," is a practical resource for teachers, career counselors, parents, and education stakeholders. It equips them with tools to help students make informed and meaningful career choices, particularly at the secondary school level. Dr. Madiha draws on her experience as the former Head of Guidance and Counselling at Sheikh Khalifa Secondary School and at TUM, as well as her previous role as the Director of Career Services at TUM. She contextualizes career guidance within the Kenyan system, highlighting real cases of student confusion and emphasizing the urgent need for mentorship.
In her remarks, Dr. Madiha stressed the growing crisis in both career direction and mental wellness among young people and the wider community, drawing from her lengthy experience as a teacher, lecturer, and counsellor. She described the two publications as a dream come true, her way of enlightening society on these critical topics. Passionate about making a difference, she challenged school principals to organize campus tours and career talks to expose students to university life and career pathways. She also credited her family, mentors, and colleagues, especially her husband, for their unwavering support throughout her professional journey. At the same time, she urged the wider community to read and understand mental health issues, emphasizing that awareness is the first step toward meaningful change.
Guest speakers described her as extraordinary, selfless, a go-getter, and deeply passionate about community service. Prof. Abubakar lauded Dr. Madiha’s creativity and ambition, noting that "strategies and resources are never enough in any organization, it takes dedication to make things happen." She praised Dr. Madiha for transforming the lives of students and being a great support to both the university and the community at large.
Students also had the opportunity to speak during the event, sharing how Dr. Madiha’s work has inspired them to think differently about mental health and career choices. Their voices highlighted the true impact of her publications on the younger generation.
Hon. Mwinyi, Dr. Kame, and Prof. Abubakar all pledged strong support for Dr. Madiha, including in the purchase of her books and relaunches of the books. Dr. Audi, the publisher, promised continued support for her future publications.
Held last Saturday, 6th September, the event was more than a book launch. It was a celebration of knowledge, mentorship, and community spirit. It brought together community leaders, educators, students, and families in a shared commitment to building a healthier, more informed, and better-prepared society.
