The country's healthcare sector has received a significant boost after 124 nurses graduated from The Nairobi Hospital's Cicely McDonnell College of Health Sciences.
The Nairobi Hospital's Cicely McDonell College of Health Sciences held its 29th graduation ceremony on Friday, November 29, 2024.
Most of the nurses who graduated on Friday specialised in various areas such as cancer and critical care.
Among the graduates were 81 registered nurses who completed a three-year diploma programme and 43 higher diploma nurses who completed a one-and-a-half-year diploma programme, who trained in four specialised areas.
Out of the 43 nurses, 12 qualified under Critical Care, 11 under Peri-operative (theatre) Nursing, 13 under Trauma and Emergency Nursing and seven under Nephrology.
“Today, 124 nurses who successfully completed their training this year will be awarded diplomas in their various areas of specialisation,” college principal Margaret Sirima said.
These are some of the specialties with a shortage of trained nurses in Kenya.
This is expected to help bridge the nurse to patient ratio in the country which currently stand at only eight nurses per 10,000 population compared to the World Health Organisation recommendation of 25 per 10,000 people.
Specialisation in nursing is critical in the implementation of UHC.
The event celebrated the graduates' accomplishments in their specialist fields, positioning them as valuable contributors to the country’s health system.
Sirima also announced that the graduates had not only completed their rigorous training but also excelled in their professional licensing exams achieving a 98 per cent pass rate.
“These graduates are competent practitioners ready to make an impact in the healthcare field,” Sirima said.
Sirima highlighted the college’s commitment to global opportunities, noting partnerships such as one with the AG German Institute.
The initiative which commenced in May 2024 seeks to equip students with German language skills for international employment, particularly in Germany.
Sirima revealed that of the 2024 cohort, 15 students participated in the programme, with six completing the qualifying exams and one already securing a contract with a German hospital.
Chair of the Kenya Hospital Association Chris Bichage reassured the graduates of job opportunities, emphasising the hospital’s priority in absorbing its alumni into the workforce.
“As your board chair, let me promise you that going forward, employing you will be our priority. I commit directly that any available slots for nurses in this hospital will go to you our graduates,” Bichage said.
According to data by the Ministry of Health, Kenya has only eight nurses per 10,000 population, compared to the World Health Organisation’s recommended 25 per 10,000 people.
This makes it difficult for Kenya to achieve sustainable healthcare and ensure healthy lives for all.
The world has an estimated 28 million nurses, who make up about 60 per cent of the global health sector professionals.
