The Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Hon Soipan Tuya on 27 May 2025 graced the National Defence College (NDC) graduation ceremony in which 66 course participants of course 27-2024/25 graduated at Karen, Nairobi County. The graduates were drawn from Kenya and other allied countries which included Burundi, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Egypt, India, Malawi, Nigeria, Namibia, Nepal, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. NDC is a college of National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K).
In her remarks, CS Tuya congratulated the graduates and stated that it is a historical milestone as the graduates took part in a rigorous programme that involved being evaluated on various coursework material and practical aspects. She encouraged the graduates to uphold excellence, patriotism and utmost commitment as they return to their ministries, departments, agencies and their countries.
“The skills you have obtained will serve u well as you step into strategic leadership. Your commitment extended beyond the lecture halls.” she added.
Further, she thanked NDC for the work they are doing in maintaining the institution status. She added that the presence of allied nations has brought invaluable perspectives and enforced multilateral dialogues between nations.
“As managers of the system, you are architects of lasting peace in strategic leadership. Embrace innovation and lead with resilience. Serve with courage, conviction and honour. Finally, embrace a culture of continuous learning.” she added.
The Commandant of NDC, Lieutenant General Juma Mwinyikai congratulated the graduates for their dedication, sacrifice and hardwork at the College. He stated that it marks another milestone for the graduates to take another step in their education.
In his remarks, Lt Gen Mwinyikai stated that the objectives of the course have been fully achieved; and this has been fully attributed to the timeless efforts of the faculty and staff as well as consistent support from the Ministry of Defence, other ministries, departments and agencies. Additionally, he stated that NDC graduates of course 27-2024/25 stand a threshold of new opportunities in their careers.
“As we celebrate their achievements, we also recognize the unwavering support of their families whose sacrifice contributed significantly to their success.” he said.
During the event, one of the graduates from the Kenya Revenue Authority, (KRA) Ms. Chibole Adanje presented a valedictorian speech in which she highlighted their 49 weeks as memorable and worthwhile as they got to be equipped with knowledge and skills.
Further, she stated that it was not only academic studies but also the connection with the community and nature through taking part in activities like tree planting and extending their help to the less privileged. Further, she commended the Ministry of Defence as well as the faculty at the National Defence College for their unwavering support.
“I also commend our families for their immense support amid our prolonged absence.” she stated.
Prior to the graduation ceremony, the Chief of Defence Forces, Charles Kahariri delivered a high-level lecture on Proliferation of Technology: A sword and a shield. General Kahariri stated that technology has served as both a shield and a sword through various factors which include; enhanced surveillance and intelligence, precision weapons and automated defence, real time monitoring, AI driven cyber security, national security and strategic stability, weaponisation and dual use of technology, cyber security and systemic vulnerabilities. Further, he stated that emerging technologies have disrupted traditional security paradigms.
Present during the event were Her Excellency the First Lady, Mrs Rachael Ruto, Defence PS, Dr. Patrick Mariru, Vice Chief of Defence Forces, Lt Gen John Omenda, Vice Chancellor NDU-K, Lt Gen Jimson Mutai, Service Commanders, General Officers (both serving and retired), senior government and military officials, faculty members, families and friends to the graduates.
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