The transition from medical school to internship marks a significant milestone in every doctor’s career. Beyond clinical knowledge, the journey requires preparation, mentorship, professionalism and an understanding of the environment in which future medical officers will serve.
To support this transition, CHAK conducted a Medical Officer Internship Sensitisation Programme for final-year medical students from 11 universities: Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Kenyatta University (KU), University of Nairobi (UoN) and Mount Kenya University (MKU), Kenya Methodist University, Moi University, Egerton University, Maseno University, Uzima University, Kisii University and Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST).
The sensitization sessions reached a total of 310 students
The sessions brought together CHAK representatives, internship hospital coordinators and university representatives to introduce students to the CHAK Medical Officer Internship Programme, provide insights into the internship experience and address questions around working in faith-based health facilities.
“Our internship is not an easy time. It is not a time you go to rest and unwind after six years of medical school. It is actually a lot. We believe that whatever we do, we do it for God because it is God that we are serving. As you see that patient, as you see those community members and caregivers, you know that we are serving God in that process,” she added.
The students were also taken through CHAK’s approach to holistic healthcare and the unique role played by faith-based hospitals in training medical officers. Discussions during the sensitization sessions addressed common misconceptions around clinical exposure, mentorship opportunities and the learning environment in CHAK training facilities.
Representatives from CHAK internship hospitals encouraged students to approach internship with commitment, passion and willingness to learn.
“You need to show that competence, the desire and the passion. People are very willing to teach you; you just need to show that you really want to learn,” – Dr Apil Ogowe from Consolata Hospital Nkubu told the students.
Dr Brian Kendi from AIC Kijabe Hospital informed the Interns that CHAK hospitals provided opportunities for professional growth, research and exposure to holistic patient care.
“It is a chance for you to grow professionally because it will equip you with the knowledge that you need in the various departments. You will get a chance to see what holistic care looks like.”
During the interactive sessions, students raised questions on internship selection, medical insurance, stipends, labour rights, mental health support, spiritual fellowships and fairness in opportunities regardless of faith background.
A final-year medical student from Mount Kenya Universitynoted that the session helped address misconceptions about faith-based facilities and provided clarity on what to expect during internship.
University representatives encouraged students to actively engage, build networks and make use of the information shared during the sessions.
As the students prepare to begin the next chapter of their medical careers, CHAK continues to invest in preparing competent, compassionate and values-driven healthcare professionals who will contribute to quality healthcare delivery in Kenya.
“Internship is not only about gaining clinical skills; it is also about developing the right values, professionalism and the ability to care for patients as whole individuals.” – Rita Samba, CHAK Internship Programme Coordinator
Applications for the CHAK Medical Officer Internship Programme open on July 29, 2026. Eligible final-year medical students are invited to apply through the CHAK application portal on www.chak.or.ke.
