In line with our commitment to rise citizen’s awareness on the importance of public services, GI-ESCR in partnership with the Center for Peace and Human Rights at the University of Nairobi (UoN), hosted an enlightening in-person student community discussion. The event served as a pivotal component of the ongoing advocacy campaign surrounding the Arts Competition, launched on September 12, 2023. 

The event, emceed by Dr. Kathleen Anangwe, saw the distinguished presence of UoN dignitaries. Dr. Patrick Nyabul, Chairman of Philosophy & Religious Studies, Mr. Ireri Kinyua, Dean of Students, and Prof Jack A. Odhiambo, Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences, delivered inspiring opening remarks. Following these esteemed introductions, the discussion was further enriched by the contributions of Dr. Francis Owakah, Coordinator of the Center for Human Rights & Peace (CHRP), and Ms. Roselyne Adhiambo Onyango, Associate Programme Officer – Africa at GI-ESCR. 

The engaging and thought-provoking session was thoughtfully structured into two parts. The first segment delved into the critical subject of public services and their indispensable role in society. This discussion was led by experts in the field, Ashina Mtsumi, Coordinator for the Tax & Education Alliance at ActionAid International, and Linda Oduor-Noah, Health Policy & Advocacy Advisor at OXFAM International. 

Throughout this section, students actively participated by sharing their perspectives on the historical and contemporary significance of public services in addressing socio-economic inequalities within Kenya. They also seized the opportunity to propose recommendations on how public services can be harnessed to construct a more equitable, inclusive, and just Kenya, aligning with the overarching theme of the Arts Competition. 

The second session of the event delved into the fascinating interplay between arts and human rights. Dr. Kimingichi Wabende and Dr. Geoffrey Osaaji, experts in their respective fields, guided students on harnessing various art genres as potent tools for articulating their perspectives on human rights, with a specific emphasis on the right to public services. This interactive session facilitated students' exploration of different artistic mediums, enabling them to express their ideas effectively. 

In a collaborative spirit, students worked in groups, creatively utilising diverse art forms to present their interpretations of human rights, particularly focusing on the pivotal role of public services. This dynamic exchange of ideas and artistic expressions underscored the profound impact art can have in conveying complex social issues. 

The Arts Competition, which serves as the catalyst for these engaging discussions, seeks to empower students and their broader communities as champions and defenders of the right to public services. By nurturing the voices of future advocates dedicated to economic, social, and cultural rights, this competition aspires to catalyse positive change, fostering a more equitable and inclusive future for Kenya. 

For additional information about the Arts Competition and its objectives, please visit its website here.