By Steve El Sabai
The 31st Graduation Ceremony of the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) was a momentous occasion, presided over by the Principal Secretary for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs, Mr. Joseph Motari, CBS, alongside the Director General of KISE, Dr. Norman Kiongora. The event stood as a powerful affirmation of Kenya’s collective commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring their full participation in society.
This year’s graduation ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a demonstration of the country’s ongoing dedication to building an inclusive society. The graduates, having undergone rigorous and specialized training, are now equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to support individuals with disabilities, enhance their quality of life, and advocate for their rights. These newly trained professionals are set to play a pivotal role in advancing social change and fostering greater inclusion in communities across Kenya.
In his address, Principal Secretary Joseph Motari highlighted the significance of the milestone, emphasizing that the event was a testament to the transformative power of education and the collective effort to build a more inclusive and equitable society. “Today, we celebrate the exceptional achievements of our graduates, who have not only honed their skills in special education but have also embraced the responsibility of supporting the rights of persons with disabilities,” Motari remarked. “This occasion underscores our commitment to ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their physical abilities, has access to opportunities that enable them to thrive.”
Dr. Norman Kiongora, the Director General of KISE, also spoke passionately about the vital role that education plays in fostering inclusion and changing societal perceptions of disability. “At KISE, we are dedicated to providing quality training that empowers our graduates to make meaningful contributions to the lives of persons with disabilities,” Dr. Kiongora said. “Today’s ceremony is a proud moment for us as an institution and for the entire nation, as we witness the graduation of these outstanding individuals who will go on to shape a more inclusive and compassionate society.”
A key part of the ceremony was the recognition of crucial partners whose collaboration continues to be instrumental in shaping the future of special education in Kenya. Notably, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) was praised for its unwavering commitment to training special needs educators, ensuring that the next generation of teachers is well-equipped to handle the diverse needs of learners with disabilities.
Furthermore, the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) was recognized for its tireless efforts in promoting and advancing the Kenya Sign Language program. This program has become a cornerstone in fostering communication and inclusion for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Their support has been invaluable in enhancing the accessibility of education, services, and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities across the country.
The ceremony also served as a poignant reminder of the work still needed to ensure that persons with disabilities have equal access to opportunities and resources. As Mr. Motari noted, “The graduation of these individuals is just the beginning of a much larger movement. It is not enough to simply train professionals; we must continue to work together as a society—government, stakeholders, and citizens—to create an environment that ensures equal opportunities for all.”
The event concluded with heartfelt congratulations extended to the graduates. “This is a day of celebration for you, but also a reminder of the responsibility you now carry,” said Motari. “As you step forward, I urge you to do so with confidence, purpose, and an unwavering determination to leave a legacy of inclusion, compassion, and positive change.”
As these graduates embark on their professional journeys, they carry with them the promise of a more inclusive future for persons with disabilities in Kenya. Their commitment to making a difference will undoubtedly inspire others, creating a ripple effect that transforms not only the lives of individuals with disabilities but society as a whole.