Dr Sabella Kiprono: PhD holder who returned to KMTC for diploma course

Dr Sabella Kiprono had everything going for her academically. She had scaled the heights and graduated with a PhD in Microbiology at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan, China.

She also had a good job teaching at Masinde Muliro University. It is for these reasons that her bold decision to wear a school uniform and return to the Kenya Medical Training College for diploma studies shocked many.

Dr Sabella returned to the college in 2021 for a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences. She narrated how her journey took her to the pinnacle of academic pursuits, then took a turn that saw her end up at the KMTC for diploma studies.

“From a young age, I was drawn to health sciences and dreamed of becoming a nurse. However, after completing my KCSE, financial constraints meant my parents could not afford a nursing degree.

Though disappointed, I did not let go of my dream. Instead, I pursued a Bachelor of Education in Science at Egerton University, majoring in Biology and Chemistry, a course that gave me a strong scientific foundation and opened unexpected doors.

Later, I had the opportunity to study abroad and chose to specialize in Microbiology at Saint Louis University in the Philippines. It was here that my passion for medical research and diagnostics deepened.

On returning home, I secured teaching roles at Kampala International University and Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST).

While working with medical laboratory students at MMUST, I discovered just how much I enjoyed clinical training. It sparked a renewed passion I had not fully explored before. The desire to become a certified medical laboratory scientist began to take root.

READ MORE: PhD lecturer enrolled at KMTC campus, studying Diploma in Clinical Medicine

Still, I intentionally decided to first complete my PhD in Microbiology at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan, China. The experience was deeply enriching, both academically and personally. But even then, the pull toward hands-on clinical practice never left me.

In 2021, I enrolled in the Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences at KMTC Kakamega Campus. Though I held a PhD, I needed practical skills in hematology, blood transfusion, histopathology, and other areas vital to laboratory medicine.

KMTC provided just that. The curriculum was rigorous and hands-on, with real hospital exposure that shaped my skills and confidence.

One of the most impactful parts of my training was the clinical attachment at Aga Khan Hospital in Kisumu. Working in a high-volume lab across departments like microbiology, hematology, and clinical chemistry gave me invaluable experience in real-time diagnostics.

While older than most of my classmates, I easily blended in. Their energy was infectious, and the sense of community was strong. The lecturers were equally supportive, mentors who guided me with dedication and patience.

I remain especially grateful to the late Mr. George Omoyo and others like Mr. Cheloti, Dr. Radol, Mr. Kipkemboi, and Mr. Ayieko, who shaped my technical and professional journey.

However, my time at KMTC was not without its challenges. As a university lecturer, researcher, and parent, balancing academics, work, and family was no small feat. I would teach by day, manage research projects, fulfill administrative tasks, then attend classes, complete assignments, and prepare for exams.

Many days started before sunrise and ended well after dark. There were difficult moments, especially during exams and clinicals, when the pressure was huge.

But I stayed grounded in my purpose: to become a better mentor and practitioner. The support from KMTC lecturers, who accommodated my tight schedule with understanding, was instrumental. So was the untiring support of my family, who stood by me through it all.

After three demanding years, I passed the KMTC final qualifying exam and the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board (KMLTTB) licensing exam.

Graduation day, December 5, 2024, was the moment it all came full circle. As I stood in my gown, I could not help but reflect on the little girl who once dreamed of working in health care, the sacrifices made along the way, and the joy of finally earning the title of licensed Medical Laboratory Technologist.

This journey has taught me that pursuing your dream is never too late. Returning to class with younger students after years in academia was humbling.

It reminded me that education is a lifelong pursuit and that passion, not age, defines potential. As I move forward, I am committed to continuing my work in teaching, research, and clinical mentorship.

My hope is to inspire others, students, peers, and future health professionals, to embrace growth at every stage, and to know that with purpose and persistence, even the most winding path can lead to something extraordinary.”