International Microorganisms Day is a worldwide event to promote the diversity and variety of microorganisms. It is a way to encourage everyone to recognize and celebrate the many ways microscopic organisms are important in human health, culture, economic activity, employment, and, throughout our daily lives. This year, the Department of Biological Sciences, with the generous support of the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) marked the day on 18th September 2023 at the University Grounds to educate the public about the importance of microbes and microbiology in human welfare. The theme of the event was ‘Marveling at the Wonders of the Microscopic World’. The objectives of the event were to create awareness of the importance of microbes and microbiology in human welfare, to market the Microbiology course to the invited high schools, to collaborate and network with national and international scientific organizations, to bring fun into learning Microbiology for students and invited participants, and to motivate and inspire the current Microbiology students of the University of Eldoret in their discipline.

The organization of this event was spearheaded by Dr. Becky Aloo from the Department of Biological Sciences and Ms. Marystella Injete (former Microbiology student of the University of Eldoret and the current Ambassador of the ASM-Kenya in collaboration with Microbiology technical & teaching staff and Microbiology students of UoE through the Microbiology students Association. Other members of the organizing committee consisted of Dr. Emily Chemoiwa, Prof. Lizzy Mwamburi, Dr. Pixley Kipsumbai, Dr. Salina Rono, Dr. Samuel Kariuki, Ms. Pamela Mwikali, Ms. Florecen Oseso, Ms. Emily Chelimo, Mr. Benard Limo, Mr. Duncan Chebui, Mr. Alphonse Ochieng, and Mr. Nathan Warutere. Students and staff from neighboring universities like Chebisaas National High School, Ziwa High School, University of Eldoret High School, and Rift Valley Technical Training Institute. The event was graced by Prof. Wilson Ng’etich - Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration and Finance, and Prof. Beatrice Were - Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Argwins Otieno - Acting Dean of the School of Science, and Dr. Emily Too - Head of the Department of Biological Sciences.

The event involved many fun learning activities to spur interest among participants in Microbiology. Some of the activities that took place were the Agar Art show and competition, Microbiology Lab Demos, Microscopy Workshop, Meet the Microbes Poster Competition, Dance with Microbes, and Cut-the-Microbe Cake. There was a keynote speech on ‘The significance of Advancing Microbial Sciences’ which was delivered online from France by Mr. Iyiola Oladunjoye – ASM Young ambassador to Nigeria. A second keynote speech on ‘The role of Microbiology and Microbiologists in Africa’ was delivered by Mr. Maanicus Rodolpher-Bez-Bang Kotangou. The ASM Young Ambassador to the Central African Republic. The event culminated in awards to students who took part in various activities to promote microbial sciences, guests, and the organizing committee members. Below are some photos from the event.