University of Evansville Students Expand Access to Physical Therapy in Kenya
Evansville, Ind. (03/26/2025) — In May 2025, University of Evansville (UE) students will travel to Kenya to launch a physical therapy initiative at the Amani Health Centre, a facility serving rural communities in Southwestern Kenya. This marks the first time UE students will contribute to expanding rehabilitative care in the region.
Physical Therapy was introduced at Amani Health Centre in February 2024 by a local Kenyan physiotherapist in preparation for the UE students' arrival. In many rural areas, preventative care is uncommon, and treatment is often sought only when conditions become severe. The UE team aims to address this gap by improving awareness and access to physical therapy.
During their trip, students will provide hands-on treatment for patients with orthopedic conditions, offer basic exercise programs, and collaborate with the local physiotherapist to reinforce evidence-based care. They will also develop educational materials to help the community understand the benefits of physical therapy and recognize early signs of musculoskeletal issues. Additionally, the team will lead a professional development session for Kenyan physiotherapists, focusing on best practices for treating children with cerebral palsy.
"Physical therapy can be life-changing, especially in communities where access to healthcare is limited," said Sydney McClary, Physical Therapy student and Ace CARE Coordinator. "By working alongside local professionals, we hope to create sustainable solutions that empower individuals and improve overall health outcomes in the region."
Through this initiative, UE students hope to establish a foundation for long-term physical therapy services at Amani Health Centre, ensuring continued care for future patients.
The University of Evansville is a private, comprehensive university with a solid foundation in the arts and sciences and professional schools in business, engineering, education, and health sciences. Established in 1854, UE is recognized across the globe for its rich tradition of innovative, academic excellence and dynamic campus community of #Changemakers.
Home of the Purple Aces, UE is located in the southwestern region of Indiana and offers over 75 majors, 17 Division I sports, and a unique study abroad experience at Harlaxton, the University's very own Victorian manor located in the countryside of England. For more information, please visit evansville.edu.
MEDIA CONTACT
Noah Alatza, Chief Communications Officer
na122@evansville.edu
812-893-5319
University of Evansville
uerelations@evansville.eduShare this Story
Recent News
- University of Evansville Theatre Presents MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG
- University of Evansville to Host Indiana Football Hall of Fame Celebration Honoring Randy Mattingly
- New Preschool Classrooms Expand Early Learning Access Across the Evansville Promise Neighborhood
- University of Evansville to Host 11th Annual High School Changemaker Challenge
- UE's SAE Marks 14 Years of Fall Festival Fundraising for Chemo Buddies
- UE Students Use AI to Improve Accessibility for Evansville Sidewalks
- New York Times Reporter and Historian Clay Risen to Deliver 24th Annual Thomas C. Fiddick Memorial Lecture
- 24th Annual UE Chili Bowl Sale returns on October 1
- University of Evansville Expands Financial Aid to Cover Tuition and Fees for More Indiana Students
- University of Evansville to Host Inaugural High School Choir Festival