AIRADS College Marks 8th Graduation Ceremony in Grand Style
The African Institute of Research & Development Studies (AIRADS) College hosted its 8th graduation ceremony, a jubilant event filled with celebration and accomplishment. Held at the institution’s main campus, the ceremony saw 1,753 students awarded certificates and diplomas across a variety of disciplines, highlighting the institution’s commitment to providing quality Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
In his address to the graduates, AIRADS CEO Nicholas Koech expressed deep gratitude to all attendees, faculty, and parents for their role in the success of the students. “Graduation is a memorable day; it’s a momentous occasion to celebrate the achievements of our trainees. I congratulate all 1,753 graduates for a job well done,” said Koech. He went on to emphasize that AIRADS graduates are not only equipped with technical knowledge but also with the critical soft skills required to navigate the competitive job market.
Koech noted the changing perception of TVET education in Kenya, which has seen a significant shift in recent years. “As a society, we’ve come to embrace blue-collar jobs, which were once stigmatized as options only for those who failed academically. Today, these jobs are seen as key pathways to economic success. Professions like tailoring, plumbing, and electrical engineering are now widely recognized for their role in shaping the livelihoods of many Kenyans,” he stated. Koech also thanked parents for their continued support and investment in their children’s futures, urging the graduates to leverage their skills in ways that will enhance their lives and contribute to societal progress.
On behalf of the principals from AIRADS’ numerous campuses, Mr. Onesmus Tanui from Nakuru echoed Koech’s sentiments, praising the institution’s impact on the nation’s technical workforce. “Today, we celebrate the 8th graduation of this institution. The education you’ve received here is a seed that will transform not only your communities but also the nation, the continent, and the world. You, the graduates, are the heartbeat of the future—you have the power to shape the course of history,” said Tanui.
The event also saw remarks from Dr. Ekrah Ndungu, Chairperson of the Kenya National Association of Private Colleges (KENAPCO), who extended her heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and lauded the efforts of AIRADS in building Kenya’s skilled labor force. “This institution has made a significant contribution to the country’s skilled workforce, and it is through TVET institutions like AIRADS that we are beginning to see a shift in youth employment dynamics,” Dr. Ndungu said. She further highlighted the importance of TVET in solving the country’s unemployment crisis, noting that the Kenyan government has successfully negotiated opportunities for skilled workers in countries like the United States and Germany. She encouraged the graduates to take advantage of these opportunities and broaden their horizons.
“Do not stop here—this is just the beginning. Take what you’ve learned and use it as a stepping stone to further your education and career. Be innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders in your respective fields,” Dr. Ndungu urged. She emphasized that the graduates were leaving AIRADS with more than just certificates—they were now equipped to be agents of change and to shape the future of their communities and beyond.
The event’s chief guest, Mr. Rono Mengich, representing PS TVET Dr. Esther Muoria, delivered an inspirational speech that underscored AIRADS College’s importance in Kenya’s growing TVET landscape. Mengich praised the institution for its dedication to technical education over the past 18 years, noting its impressive growth with eight branches nationwide. “AIRADS is a cornerstone of Kenya’s TVET education system, offering high-quality programs that prepare students to excel in the competitive job market. The success of this institution over the years is a testament to its unwavering commitment to equipping young Kenyans with the skills they need to succeed,” Mengich remarked.
He further encouraged the graduates to use their skills to secure sustainable livelihoods, suggesting they explore digital platforms like TikTok to showcase their talents and create income streams. “The skills you have acquired here go beyond traditional employment—use them to innovate, to build something of your own. We are confident that AIRADS graduates will excel not only in the local job market but also on the international stage,” Mengich added.
Throughout the ceremony, the atmosphere was filled with joy and excitement as family members, friends, and faculty members gathered to celebrate the hard work and dedication of the graduating class. The institution’s management also took time to reflect on AIRADS’ achievements over the years, particularly its role in training a new generation of skilled workers. With branches in various parts of the country, AIRADS has been at the forefront of driving the adoption of TVET in Kenya, bridging the gap between education and employment.
The 8th graduation ceremony was not just a celebration of academic achievement—it was a recognition of the profound impact that AIRADS College is making in shaping the future of Kenya’s workforce. As the institution continues to expand and adapt to the needs of the modern job market, its graduates are expected to be leaders in industries ranging from engineering and construction to fashion and business.
The event concluded with words of encouragement for the graduates as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. As they step into the professional world, they carry with them the skills, knowledge, and determination that will allow them to thrive and contribute to the growth and development of their communities. The future, as many speakers at the event noted, belongs to them.
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