Railway Training Institute Celebrates 61st Graduation Ceremony

The Railway Training Institute (RTI) held its 61st graduation ceremony today, celebrating the academic achievements of 1,415 graduates from the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 academic years.

The event, held at the institute’s campus, was graced by the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Transport, Mohamed Daghar, alongside the Board of Directors and the Managing Director of Kenya Railways.

The graduation marks a significant milestone for the institution, which has been at the forefront of specialized railway training in Kenya.

“RTI is one of the oldest TVETs (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) in the country, and it plays a crucial role in ensuring that we build a skilled workforce for our railway sector, which spans over 100 years of operation,” said Mr. Daghar in his speech.

The institute offers courses focused on both the Narrow Gauge and Standard Gauge Railway systems, helping to sustain and expand Kenya’s railway infrastructure.

A highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of graduates in diverse fields, including engineering, business, and maritime studies, who will contribute to various sectors within the railway industry. The graduates are expected to join organizations across Kenya and East Africa, bolstering the region’s rail transportation sector.

The PS also emphasized the importance of fostering inclusivity and gender balance at RTI, noting the near-equal representation of male and female students in recent years. “We are pleased to see that our institutions are increasingly embracing gender balance, with county governments playing an essential role in supporting women pursuing careers in transportation,” he remarked.

In terms of Kenya’s broader transportation agenda, Daghar outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to improve and expand the national rail system, including the continued development of the Nairobi commuter rail network, which is set to span 168 kilometers. He also highlighted the government’s collaboration with neighboring countries, including Uganda, to enhance cross-border connectivity.

The event was also an opportunity to reflect on RTI’s role in shaping the future of Kenya’s railway infrastructure. With a reputation for producing top-tier graduates, the institute continues to attract students not only from Kenya but from across the East African region.

The graduation ceremony concluded with a call to action for increased enrollment and support for specialized training programs in the transportation sector, ensuring that Kenya remains a regional leader in rail infrastructure and services.