Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology (JKUAT) has announced plans to introduce a Masters Degree Programme in Rehabilitation Science. The program, set to begin in September 2026, aims to train specialists who will provide vital support services to individuals with disabilities, particularly in the fields of physical therapy, speech therapy, and pathology.
According to Dr. Mwangi Matheri, the Head of the Rehabilitation Sciences Department at JKUAT, this initiative is driven by the increasing demand for qualified rehabilitation professionals in Kenya. With the number of people living with some form of disability on the rise, the need for trained experts has never been more urgent. The programme is designed to bridge the gap in the availability of rehabilitation specialists and trainers, ensuring that the country has a steady supply of well-qualified professionals.
Dr. Matheri emphasized that the programme would contribute to sustainable training in areas such as physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy, as well as pathology, aligning with efforts to integrate the course into the national Higher Education curricula. This will create opportunities for graduates to work in universities as trainers, rehabilitation officers, and even become self-employed professional rehabilitators.
The new course is part of a collaborative effort between four African universities and two European institutions from Norway and Finland. Prof. Graziella Van den Bergh, the AfroRehab project leader, highlighted the importance of the programme in not only supporting the local workforce but also extending its benefits to other African nations. She encouraged students to enroll, pointing out the potential for academic growth, career advancement, and the ability to make a difference in the lives of many people living with disabilities.
Dr. Naomi Wanjiru, a lecturer from Moi University, also praised the initiative, stating that the programme would bring rehabilitation services closer to the people, reducing the need for individuals to travel long distances to access specialized care.
The introduction of this Masters Degree Programme is a promising step toward enhancing the quality of life for those living with disabilities in Kenya and across the African continent.
