The National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K) celebrated its 2nd Convocation today at its main campus in Lanet, Nakuru. The ceremony, embodying NDU-K’s commitment to equipping defence and security professionals with top-tier education and training, was presided over by His Excellency Dr. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya, Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, and Chancellor of NDU-K.
During the event, President Ruto conferred Master’s degrees and awarded Postgraduate Diplomas and Diplomas to 227 graduates from NDU-K’s Colleges, various Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), and senior military officers from allied nations.
Addressing contemporary security issues, the Chancellor highlighted the challenges Kenya faces, including cyberattacks, information warfare, terrorism, maritime security, and climate-induced crises. He underscored the need for personnel with the capability to develop sophisticated solutions to counter these threats. President Ruto encouraged graduates to elevate their skills through collaboration with experts from diverse fields and to embrace adaptability and lifelong learning to address the ever-evolving landscape of national security.
Further, the President emphasized the importance of having defence personnel who are not only skilled but also analytical thinkers capable of contributing to both national and global peace. He expressed confidence that through research, innovation, and technology at NDU-K, the nation could enhance its resilience in a dynamic security environment, thereby securing national development and prosperity.
“I encourage you, our graduates, to lead the way in embracing innovation. The future of Kenya’s defence depends on your skills in harnessing emerging technologies, not just as tools for military use but as catalysts for economic growth, infrastructure modernization, and improved quality of life for all Kenyans,” President Ruto said.
The President also highlighted NDU-K’s role in crisis and disaster management, emphasizing the need for close collaboration between the university and counties to bolster the effectiveness of disaster response centers nationwide.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Hon. Soipan Tuya reaffirmed the university’s dedication to building expertise in defence, security, and strategic studies.
She noted that through its seven Colleges, NDU-K has been instrumental in developing strategic thinkers, policy experts, and leaders capable of addressing complex security challenges.
Education Cabinet Secretary Hon. Julius Migos echoed this sentiment, highlighting NDU-K’s role in strengthening Kenya’s position as an education hub and aligning the nation’s security capabilities with regional and global standards. He noted that multi-sectoral collaboration across ministries and government agencies would be essential in achieving national goals.
General Charles Kahariri, Chief of the Defence Forces and Chairperson of the NDU-K Council, commended the university’s commitment to producing current and future leaders, thinkers, and innovators who are well-equipped to address current and emerging security concerns. Vice-Chancellor Lieutenant General Jimson Mutai spoke to the university’s rapid growth, stressing its commitment to providing students with both theoretical and practical skills.
Among those present at the ceremony were Principal Secretaries, Members of Parliament, the Vice-Chief of the Defence Forces, Service Commanders, serving and retired General Officers, senior officers, NDU-K faculty and staff, as well as families and friends of the graduates.
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