The field of mortuary science in Kenya is witnessing unprecedented growth, driven by the increasing demand for professionally trained morticians. When the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) launched its Mortuary Science programme in March 2023, few anticipated the overwhelming response it would receive. However, within a year, the course has become one of KMTC’s most sought-after programmes, reflecting a shift in the perception and necessity of professional mortuary services in the country.
According to KMTC CEO Dr. Kelly Oluoch, the demand for the course has grown exponentially. “Initially, we received 250 applications against our capacity of 50 slots. We have since expanded to accommodate more students, and today, the number of applicants runs into hundreds,” he noted. This surge highlights the crucial role of formal training in the field, as mortuary attendants in Kenya have historically been trained informally, often learning on the job in private funeral parlours.
The rising interest in mortuary science is partly attributed to the structured training offered at KMTC. The course is meticulously regulated, ensuring that only a limited number of students are admitted to maintain high training standards. Many of the applicants are sponsored by public health facilities or private institutions that provide mortuary services and seek to strengthen their technical capacity. Additionally, individual entrepreneurs looking to venture into the mortuary business find the programme highly beneficial, as it equips them with both technical expertise and ethical handling of human remains.
A 2018–2021 study conducted by senior lecturers at the University of Nairobi and pathologists from Kenyatta National Hospital revealed significant gaps in the training and practice of morticians in Kenya. These findings underscored the need for a structured training programme, leading to the establishment of the KMTC course.
The diploma in Mortuary Science takes three years to complete, while those who already possess a certificate in the field can enroll in an upgrading course that takes two years. The training prepares graduates to work both locally and internationally, fostering professionalism and dignity in mortuary services.
Initially offered at KMTC’s Nairobi Campus, the programme has since expanded to additional campuses, with plans to roll out in four more in the coming years. “Ultimately, all main campuses in the eight former provincial headquarters will offer the course,” said Dr. Oluoch. This expansion aligns with the growing demand for professional morticians and underscores the programme’s long-term sustainability.
The rapid rise of mortuary science training in Kenya signals a new era in the funeral services industry, where professionalism and respect for human remains are prioritized. As more institutions adopt this training, the country is poised to elevate its mortuary services to global standards.
