Empowering Change: KISE Holds It's 31st Graduation Ceremony

By Njeri Irungu.

The Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) celebrated its 31st Graduation Ceremony in a landmark event that underscored Kenya’s commitment to inclusion and the empowerment of persons with disabilities. The ceremony was graced by the Principal Secretary for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs, Mr. Joseph Motari, CBS, and the Director General of KISE, Dr. Noman Kiogora.

This year’s event was more than a celebration of academic achievement; it was a testament to the transformative power of education in fostering inclusivity. Graduates were equipped with specialized knowledge and skills to champion the rights and welfare of individuals with disabilities, signaling a brighter and more inclusive future for Kenya.

In his keynote address, Principal Secretary Motari emphasized the significance of the occasion.

“Today, we celebrate the exceptional achievements of our graduates who are now ready to support the rights of persons with disabilities,” he said. “This milestone reflects our collective resolve to create a society where everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, can thrive.”

Noman Kiogora, KISE’s Director General, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the institution’s dedication to quality training. “Our graduates are catalysts for change,” he remarked. “They leave here equipped not only to advocate for inclusivity but to reshape societal perceptions about disability.”

The graduation ceremony also recognized key stakeholders who have been instrumental in advancing special education in Kenya. The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) was lauded for its commitment to training educators who can meet the diverse needs of learners with disabilities.

Similarly, the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) received accolades for its efforts in promoting the Kenya Sign Language program, a critical tool for inclusion. This program has played a pivotal role in bridging communication gaps for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, ensuring accessibility in education, services, and employment.

While the ceremony celebrated progress, it also served as a reminder of the work that remains. Mr. Motari called for collective action to eliminate barriers faced by persons with disabilities.

“Training professionals is only the beginning. As a society, we must ensure that these individuals have equal access to opportunities and resources,” he said.

The event concluded with a rousing send-off for the graduates. “This is your moment, but also a call to action,” Motari told them. “Go forward with confidence and determination to build a legacy of inclusion and compassion.”

As the graduates embark on their careers, they carry the hopes of a nation striving for a more inclusive future. Their work promises to not only uplift persons with disabilities but also. inspire a societal shift towards equity and respect for all