National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K) Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) Academic & Students Affairs Prof. Ann Muigai today presided over an academic orientation for the first cohort of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing with Military Health and the Higher Diploma in Clinical Medicine and Anaesthesia programs at the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital (DFMH), Nairobi.

DCHS is a College of NDU-K mandated to train medical practitioners and build human intellectual capacity in health care provision for national security through provision of quality Medical education, research, innovation and leadership.

In her remarks, Prof.Muigai emphasized the importance of this milestone for the College, the National Defence University of Kenya, and the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) medical fraternity. She acknowledged the collective efforts of various stakeholders in gaining approval from regulatory agencies and encouraged students to take full advantage of this unique opportunity. She reminded them that nursing requires empathy and commitment, essential qualities for their professional success.

Expressing appreciation to the Directorate of Medical Services for its role in establishing the program, Professor Muigai assured that NDU-K would ensure the students were well-prepared to serve the KDF upon graduation.

Brigadier (Dr.) Muithya Ngundo, Chief of Medical Services and Chair of the College Control Board, lauded the students for their selection from a large pool of applicants and encouraged them to value support to them.

On her part, NDU-K Director of Examinations, Brigadier Elizabeth Omollo, also underscored the importance of integrity, discipline, and selflessness for the students' success.

Colonel (Dr.) Margaret Wambui, Principal of the College, affirmed the College’s commitment to creating a conducive learning environment to equip students with the necessary technical skills in their fields.

The inaugural classes consist of 13 Bachelor of Science in Nursing with Military Health students and 8 Clinical Officers enrolled in the Higher Diploma in Clinical Medicine and Anaesthesia, all drawn from various KDF Services

The event was attended by, among others, DFMH Commandant Brigadier John Khaoya, DFMH Chief Nursing Officer Colonel John Mnjala, Former DCHS Principal Colonel Hellen Kamotho, Nairobi Regional Hospital (NRH) Chief Nursing Officer, NDU-K Registra Dr. Stephen Mailu, DCHS Head of Program Dr.Duncan Anangwe ,Deputy Principal , Chief Instructor and faculty staff.