The Kenya Railways Training Institute witnessed a momentous occasion as it held its 61st Graduation Ceremony for the academic years 2022-2023 and 2023-2024. The event, attended by dignitaries, students, and their families, celebrated the accomplishments of 1,415 graduates who have completed rigorous training in various fields within the transport sector.
Principal Secretary for Transport, Mohammed Dagar, addressed the press, emphasizing the significance of the ceremony. Dagar stated, “My name is Mohammed Dagar. I’m the principal secretary for the State Department of Transport. Today we are here to celebrate the 61st Graduation ceremony… This is one of the oldest institutions we have in the country, and it signifies a very good milestone in many ways.”
Highlighting the institution’s valued contributions, Dagar explained that the Railway Training Institute is one of the most affordable avenues for specialized training in Kenya’s railway system—an industry that has been thriving for over a century. The institute caters to both the narrow and standard gauge railway systems, producing highly competent professionals essential for the country’s transport infrastructure.
“This institution not only serves Kenyans but also attracts East African students who benchmark their skills with us. Kenya is a regional leader in rail transportation,” Dagar added, affirming the institute’s pivotal role in fostering essential skills for the transportation sector.
The Principal Secretary also addressed the government’s commitment to increasing the enrollment of women and marginalized communities in transport-related studies. “We are working towards creating scholarships and initiatives to support women in the transport sector,” he noted, acknowledging the importance of inclusivity in education.
Furthermore, Dagar outlined ongoing government efforts to expand railway infrastructure, including connections to Uganda through the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and the enhancement of Nairobi’s commuter rail system. “We are continuously developing the commuter rail system within Nairobi and its surroundings, ensuring public transportation remains efficient and accessible,” said Dagar.
The ceremony featured the conferral of honorary accolades, including Dagar’s own ceremonial regalia, a gesture that symbolizes the commitment to academic excellence and leadership in transport education.
“This is not yet my honorary doctorate; it’s a representation of the march we have forged in transport education,” Dagar remarked, alluding to the progress being made in the sector.
As the graduates prepare to enter the workforce, the government is keen on absorbing talent into various faculties, ensuring they find their place within government agencies and private sectors alike, especially the Kenya Railways Corporation, which has long sought skilled professionals to drive operations forward.
In conclusion, the graduation ceremony not only recognized the hard work of the graduates but also underscored the vital role of institutions like the Kenya Railways Training Institute in shaping the future of the transport sector in Kenya. As they step into their careers, the graduates carry with them the hope of revolutionizing rail transportation across the region.