Railway Training Institute Hosts 61st Graduation Ceremony, Celebrates Milestone Achievements

By James Mutua 


Principal Secretary, State Department for Transport in the Ministry of Roads and Transport Mr. Mohammed Dhagar greets a graduand at the Railway Training Institute (RTI) in Nairobi on Wednesday. A total of 1,415 graduates were conferred their certificates during the event.

The Railway Training Institute (RTI), a division under the Kenya Railways Corporation and the State Department for Transport, held its 61st graduation ceremony Wednesday in Nairobi. The event marked the culmination of the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic years, celebrating the achievements of 1,415 graduates who have been trained in specialized fields to advance Kenya's transport sector.

Speaking at the event, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Transport, Mr. Mohammed Dhagar, highlighted the significance of RTI as one of Kenya's oldest Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. “This institution is integral to the growth of Kenya’s railway system, which spans over a century, covering both the meter-gauge and standard-gauge railway networks. It plays a critical role in building the competency we need in government agencies and the transport sector at large,” he noted.

Specialized Training for a Critical Sector

RTI’s graduates are equipped with skills across diverse fields, including engineering, business, and maritime studies, tailored to meet the demands of Kenya’s railway and transportation industry. PS Dhagar emphasized the importance of such training institutions, comparing RTI to similar schools like the Bandari Maritime Academy and aviation schools that support other transport regulators and agencies in Kenya.

“Our graduates will significantly contribute to the development of the railway sector and beyond,” he said. “This institution also attracts learners from across East Africa, making it a regional hub for rail transport expertise.”

Promoting Gender Balance and Inclusivity

Kenya Railways Managing Director Philip Mainga highlighted the strides made in gender balance at the institution. “We are approaching a 50:50 gender ratio in admissions, thanks to various sponsorships and support from county governments and other organizations,” he said. Initiatives are also in place to support women and marginalized communities, ensuring inclusive access to technical education.

Government Support and Infrastructure Development

When asked about government efforts to meet the growing demand for efficient rail transport, PS Dhagar underlined ongoing projects, including expanding the commuter rail network in Nairobi to enhance connectivity. “We are building a 168-kilometer commuter rail system that spans Nairobi and its neighboring counties, such as Kajiado, Kiambu, Murang’a, and Machakos,” he explained.

The government is also focusing on integrating Kenya’s rail system with neighboring countries, particularly Uganda, through the standard-gauge railway (SGR) and enhancing the meter-gauge railway (MGR). “These efforts ensure the seamless movement of goods, people, and capital, contributing to regional and national development,” he added.

Employment Prospects for Graduates

While a significant number of graduates are expected to join Kenya Railways and other government agencies, PS Dhagar highlighted the versatility of the skills acquired at RTI. “The skills learned here are relevant across various sectors, including the Kenya Ports Authority, the Kenya Maritime Authority, and other institutions that require expertise in transportation and logistics,” he concluded. 


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