The Defence Forces Technical College (DEFTEC) held its 14th graduation ceremony on Thursday, 26th April 2018 at the Embakasi Garrison, Nairobi.
The colourful ceremony was graced by the Commander Kenya Air Force Major General Samuel Thuita, which saw 149 graduands from the three services of the Kenya Defence Forces graduating with diploma certificates in various academic fields as technicians.
DEFTEC is charged with the responsibility of producing quality technical personnel who will become instrumental in servicing and maintaining KDF Land, Air and Naval Equipment and Systems, enhancing the operational readiness of our equipment.
Maj Gen Thuita expressed his happiness and praised the graduands for their hard work and determination during their studies at DEFTEC. He congratulated them, together with the instructors, reminding them of their important role in the KDF as technicians.
He acknowledged the continuous efforts of the college in pursuance of its mission with zeal; which is to train technical and information technology manpower and conduct research and development for Kenya Defence Forces. The college has also remained focused on its Vision to be a Centre of Excellence in Technical Training Driven by Research and Development.
“I am also impressed by the college participation in Research and Development (R&D) activities particularly showcasing innovative products during the annual Nairobi International Trade Fair. In this respect I urge the Commandant and the entire College fraternity to rededicate its effort in ensuring quality in Technical Training and take a leading role in Research and Development, spearheading innovation and inventions that will make our Defence Forces a Centre of Excellence to be revered,” said the Commander KAF.
Maj Gen Thuita further noted that the College has continued to maintain a high level of discipline which has created conducive learning environment to ensure that the graduates from the College are of high standard in professionalism.
The graduands took Technical Oath of Allegiance that should be a constant reminder of their role as technicians.
Maj Gen Thuita reminded the graduands to always uphold integrity, discipline and practice the professional ethics that they have learnt.
He further urged them to re-dedicate in offering first class service to KDF and the people of Kenya, and to avoid complacency and be ready to expand their knowhow and knowledge through continuous education and research.In conclusion, Maj Gen Thuita reiterated the College strategic plan which aims to modernize its infrastructure, teaching aids and equipment that will propel the College to great heights.
“The College proposal to offer Bachelor of Science in ICT under the proposed National Defence University (NDU-K) and the training institutions such as Kenyatta University and Kabete National Polytechnic amongst other institutions is commendable,” he added.
The new graduands are expected to report back to their formations and units, equipped with knowledge and skills that will enable them to perform their roles and duties passionately, diligently and professionally.
The graduation ceremony was attended by General Officer Commanding Eastern Command Major General Benjamin Biwott, Defence Forces Medical Insurance Scheme (DEFMIS) Managing Director Brigadier Fatumah Ahmed, DEFTEC Commandant Colonel Jonathan Makau, Senior Officers from the KDF, family and friends of the graduands.