PHOTO: Students shopping for supplies | ASPHOTO FAMILY / FREEPIK

As you prepare to join Moi University, it's advised to pack wisely. I've put together a list of essential supplies that will ensure your comfort, convenience, and success in your first year on campus.

1. Your Phone, Your Campus Lifeline

In today’s digital age, life at Moi University revolves around your phone. It's more than just a device for communication; it’s your primary tool to managing university life. Whether you're paying for utilities, getting class updates, attending online lectures, or submitting assignments, your phone will be indispensable. 

Why a Good Phone Matters

Communication-It will enable you stay connected with course mates, lecturers, other continuing students and administrative staff. After admission, you will be added to several WhatsApp groups, from where class updates and other vital information will be posted.

Productivity: A good phone ensures you have access to educational resources like apps, e-books, and online research materials. You will need to install apps like PDF readers and online research assistants. These apps and resources consume a lot of space, hence the need for a good phone.

ALSO READ: About Moi University 

Utility Payments: After stepping foot in Moi University, you will realize that every good and service bought are paid for using mobile money. A good phone will enable you use mobile banking apps such as Mpesa and Airtelmoney for paying your rent, shopping, food, electricity, and other services. For instance, in the Moi University eateries, all payments are made through mobile money, via E-Citizen. No cash payment is allowed.

Budgeting for a Good Phone

You can set aside at least 15,000 KSH for a reliable phone. It doesn’t need to be flashy or the latest model but should have good storage capacity of at least 64GB, and a strong battery life preferably 4000mAh or more. This investment is crucial for your day-to-day activities and academic success.

2. Warm Clothing for Beat the Cold

By now you should have known that Kesses, where Moi University is located, experiences very cold climate. If you're from warmer regions like Nyanza, Western, or the Coast, you might find the weather particularly harsh and challenging to adapt to.

Essential Warm Clothing

Sweaters and Hoodies: You can bring a mix of lightweight and heavy sweaters. Light sweaters will be useful during the day while the heavy ones very important during nightfall when temperatures drop to a record low. You can also consider buying one or two durable, heavy jackets for the coldest days, for instance during the rainy seasons.

ALSO READ: Dear Fresher, This is What to Expect on Joining Campus 

Long Trousers: Jeans, corduroys, and sweat pants are excellent choices. You can also consider bringing along warm socks. Thick, woolen socks will keep your feet warm and comfortable. Headgear like marvins, hats, and scarves are also crucial to protect your head and neck from the cold.

3. Rain Gear for Navigating the Mud

Truth be told, the road network around Moi University is pathetic. Save for the fairly good pathways inside the University, the situation after stepping outside the gate and into Stage is very wanting. The rainy season in Kesses often renders the roads muddy and slippery. To stay dry and wade comfortably, it’s important to be prepared.

You can consider having the below gear:

Gumboots: These are very essential for wading through muddy paths without sliding and falling, while keeping your feet dry.

PHOTO: A muddy road in Talai stage, just opposite Moi University main gate | PHILLEX PHILL / PHILL MEDIA 

Umbrellas: A sturdy umbrella will shield you from the rain during your commutes.

Waterproof Jacket/ Raincoat: Provides an extra layer of protection against the rain. It is lightweight and easy to carry around, perfect for unexpected showers. These items will help you go about your daily activities without being badly hindered by the weather.

5. Decent Attire

Moi University recently implemented a strict dressing code, banning items such as Crocs, mini skirts, ragged jeans, and other clothing deemed inappropriate. Dressing appropriately is not just about following rules but also about presenting yourself professionally.

ALSO READ: Moi University Students Organization (MUSO): What it is and it's Duties

Decent Shoes: Apart from your slides or Crocs, you ought to have at least 2 pairs of shoes; one formal or smart casual for class presentations and events, and another comfortable pair for daily wear.

 Decent Wear: Ensure you have presentable shirts/t-shirts/blouses and or trousers that adhere to the dress code. You can also consider a set of formal clothes for special occasions and interviews.

6. Stationery 

It goes without saying that you are going to the University for academics and you must have some stationary. However, you don't need to overburden yourself with too much. First-year students typically handle 8-12 units, depending on one's course.

You can buy 3 to 4 notebooks, sufficient enough to start with. I know of some students who come with one big counter book, enough for all the units. You can adjust the number of books based on your academic preferences and organizational needs.

7. Boarding Commodities 

Do not forget to include essential boarding commodities in your packing list. These items are crucial for maintaining hygiene and ensuring your daily comfort. Start with the basics: purchase at least a basin or a bucket, or both, to aid in your daily cleaning needs. These will be needed for washing clothes and other personal uses.

Hygiene is paramount, so stock up on necessary supplies such as soaps, toothpaste, sanitary towels, and body ointment. 

ALSO READ: Top Slangs and Catchphrases Freshers Should Expect to Encounter at Moi University 

In addition to hygiene products, consider bringing non-perishable food items. Sugar for making tea, a bottle of juice, a box of biscuits, and similar snacks are vital for those moments when you need a quick energy boost or a simple meal. 

For those planning to reside off-campus where one can cook their meals, it’s advisable to carry grains such as maize and beans from home. These staples are important for preparing nutritious meals and ensuring you have a steady food supply.

These and many more items are usually sold on the reporting day around the university, but are often priced exorbitantly. Therefore, I would advise purchasing most of your commodities in Eldoret town, where prices are relatively cheaper. This will help you save some money.