National Defence University–Kenya (NDU- K), in collaboration with Kenya BioVax Institute (KBI) Limited inaugural Course on National Security Awareness in Public Health Practice, reached its culmination today, in a graduation ceremony officiated by Brigadier Peter Chelimo, Director of the Centre for Security and Strategic Studies (CSSS),representing NDU-K Vice-Chancellor Lieutenant General Jimson Mutai.

In his address, Brig Chelimo,congratulated the participants and encouraged them to apply their newly acquired skills to address the growing security threats that impact society. He emphasized the importance of integrating these skills to enhance prevention, early detection, and rapid response to diverse and complex security emergencies, especially those with transnational implications.

He encouraged course participants to strengthen national security through a combination of knowledge, ethics, and strategic thinking. He noted that the vast knowledge gained during the course would significantly contribute to Kenya’s collective responsibility in safeguarding its interests, both domestically and internationally.

He added that NDU-K is committed to adapting to the evolving technology through advancing practical research and fostering a culture of excellence so as to bolster national security and development.

Dr. Cecilia Wanjala, the Ag. Director General and CEO of KBI, represented by Colonel Robert Gatata, expressed gratitude for the well-rounded training program and called for more mutual collaborations between KBI and security institutions like the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). He highlighted Kenya's escalating challenges from pandemics, bioterrorism, and other health emergencies, stressing the need for cooperative strategies to prevent, prepare for, and respond to such pervasive threats.  

She further expressed hope that the course would help shape a better strategic direction and deepen understanding of national health security issues for country’s development prosperity.

The one-week course, developed by NDU-K’s Centre for Security and Strategic Studies (CSSS), aimed to engage the leadership and staff of Kenya BioVax Institute (KBI) Limited in deepening their understanding of the role public health professionals play in achieving national security goals, while also raising national security awareness among KBI staff and other senior executives. This will enable them to contribute effectively to socio-economic development and human security, supporting the vision of a secure, prosperous, and peaceful Kenya.