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Life Conver​sations​

Life Conversations is a public lecture series by the Aga Khan University's Medical College, East Africa. The quarterly forum uses a hybrid system, with a physical town hall and a virtual audience. It provides a platform for public discussions aimed at practical, relevant, and impactful solutions on current societal issues.


PAST EDITIONS


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Marriage: From Tradition to Choice

The session explored changing gender roles, economic realities and evolving lifestyles shaping how people approach commitment today, inviting reflection on what marriage and relationship means in modern society.​  

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​The Long Way Back

A reflective discussion on the weight of men’s unspoken struggles after reaching their lowest point and the importance of recognising early signs of depression and seeking support.​



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Living in the Algorithm World

This edition ​explored how digital platforms shape today’s social dynamics, driving opinions, mobilizing causes, and influencing daily decisions. From viral trends to influencer narratives, the forum highlighted the power of digital content and the need to harness AI ethically to bridge the knowledge gaps.  

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​Rebuilding after Loss

The forum brought together voices of strength and healing, highlighting the power of shared stories in navigating life-altering loss and fostering resilience.​​​




Who is Parenting my Children?

A conversation that looked at the critical influences on children’s values and growth. The discussion delved into the roles of parents, schools, siblings, religion, the internet, and government in shaping young minds and fostering their development. 


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​Generations Co​llide

Exploring how different generations - from Baby Boomers to Gen Z - can build a more inclusive and forward-thinking society despite differing world views on key aspects of life.​




The Cost of Healthcare in Kenya

A look at the state of healthcare expenses in Kenya, and practical solutions to make quality care accessible to all.


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Alcoholism in Kenya: The Sober Truth

A candid conversation about alcohol: Responsible drinking, psychological and socio-cultural influences, associated health risks and addiction.​


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Inspiring Today’s Woma​n to Thrive - Career. Home. Community​

Exploring ways in which society can foster an environment for women to flourish and attain harmony.


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Be a Man - Relationships. Sex. Money.

We shed light on the pressing issues men face and and encouraged the free exchange of thoughts and experiences. The forum was part of the Movember annual event which seeks to raise awareness of men's health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men's suicide.


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Leadershi​​p for the People – The Contradiction

The public forum explored leadership and its various dimensions, with participants sharing valuable insights into leadership qualities, challenges, and impact in different contexts with the objective of fostering better understanding and engagement between leaders and the people.​


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The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Social Media

Experts drawn from the digital media ecosystem share insights on how to positively use social media and navigate the murky side of the social media which includes trolling, addiction and cyberbullying​


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The Sex Lives of Kenyans

The forum looked at the implications of multiple sex partners on the physical, emotional, economic and mental well-being; and was informed by the Kenya Demographic and Healt​h Survey (KDHS) 2022, released by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) in January which showed that Kenyans have multiple sexual partners.


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A Glimpse of the Life Conversations Sessions​​​

In the media

We’re watching out for new policies that change lives

It was refreshing to learn from experts that collaboration is one area where health financing can help reduce the cost for all Kenyans. You see, SHIF operates on the principle of the rich paying for the poor, while commercial insurance companies operate on the principle of the healthy paying for the sick. These two operate in silos and the need for collaboration is clear given that there is only a limited number of Kenyans with access to insurance through employers. Well, interesting conversations that tell you the new CS has her work cut out. But perhaps the most interesting discussion was on disease-based capitation by hospitals. Currently, we are spreading our limited expertise in the medical field quite thin.​ Read more

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​Let’s make social media a safe space 
Dr Nancy Booker, Dean, Graduate School of Media and Communications

Social media has also become an essential strategy for building brands by increasing their reach and allowing users to respond to content put up in real time. Many are also ma​king a living from social media with the mushrooming of content creation as a career. This is to be celebrated and supported. Read article


Age-appropriate sex education is necessary for our children!

Maureen Akolo, Public Health Expert, Aga Khan University

While some level of sex education happens in school, parents must also have this conversation at home as they are the source of authority for their children. As parents, let us seize the moment and bring up such discussions tactfully and comfortably as and when the opportunity arises. Let us affirm and reassure our teenagers of our love for them. ​​Read article