KMTC Flooded with Applications for Mortuary Science Course.
The Diploma in Mortuary Science might sound daunting, evoking thoughts of death and an unusual work environment.
Spanning three years of study, this course revolves around topics related to the deceased and requires working closely with the departed. Given its nature, one might expect the public to shy away from it. However, contrary to such expectations, interest in the program has surged significantly.
Initially introduced at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) in March 2023, the program was only available in Nairobi with an initial capacity of 50 students. However, overwhelming interest led to an expansion across multiple campuses.
By the February 14 deadline for the March 2024 intake, KMTC had received more than 250 applications per day through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS).
Dr. Kelly Oluoch, the Chief Executive Officer of KMTC, expressed surprise at the unexpected demand, stating that the institution struggled to accommodate all the applicants.
Graduating Professionals and Industry Impact
Dr. Oluoch highlighted that the first cohort of students would graduate this year after completing their final qualifying exams.
Many of them have already identified employment opportunities, as most mortuaries across the country suffer from mismanagement and lack of professional staff. He noted that the industry has long been dominated by unqualified personnel, many of whom relied on substances such as marijuana or alcohol to endure their duties.
Additionally, some hospitals assigned mortuary work to undisciplined employees as a punitive measure, leading to poor service delivery and lack of professionalism in handling bodies and interacting with mourners.
The course aims to revolutionize the sector by ensuring mortuary professionals are well-trained in embalming techniques, body preservation, and customer service.
Dr. Oluoch emphasized that morgues should not be associated with foul smells and disorganized spaces but should instead be properly maintained, with embalming processes conducted with precision and care.
Hellen Wangui Njoki, a security guard at KMTC’s Nakuru campus, developed an interest in mortuary science after attending a meeting of morticians in 2023. Initially fearful of the field, she later became motivated and is set to join the program in March.
Similarly, Hezinat Moraa, a recent high school graduate, visited KMTC’s Nakuru campus to inquire about enrollment.
She found the course appealing due to its demand both locally and internationally, believing it offers better career prospects than oversaturated medical fields like nursing. Her primary motivation is to stand out in a unique profession and potentially work abroad.
A Booming Death Care Industry
The rising interest in mortuary science corresponds with the growth of the death care industry. Many businesses specializing in body preservation, dressing, and funeral services have emerged. Families are willing to invest significantly in dignified farewells for their loved ones.
Reports indicate that the global death care services market, valued at $127.83 billion in 2024, is expected to grow to $138.74 billion by 2025.
KMTC’s program not only equips students with technical expertise but also imparts managerial skills, enabling graduates to run funeral homes.
Dr. Oluoch pointed out that some regions in Kenya lack proper mortuary facilities, leading to improper body preservation and burial practices. With their training, graduates can establish funeral homes and improve mortuary services in underserved areas.
Additionally, the curriculum includes handling infectious disease victims and severely damaged bodies. Trainees learn techniques for preserving bodies affected by accidents, acid burns, high-degree burns, and decomposition.
Families of such deceased individuals have previously suffered due to inadequate services provided by untrained personnel.
The program also prepares students to handle bodies of those who succumb to infectious diseases like Covid-19, ensuring safe management and reducing the risk of disease transmission.
Nationwide Expansion
Initially offered only in Nairobi, the course has since been introduced in Kisumu and Mombasa. Due to growing demand, KMTC has further expanded it to Kakamega, Bondo, and soon Nakuru.
County governments have also begun advertising positions for mortuary attendants, further validating the profession’s growing significance.
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KMTC’s introduction of the course was based on extensive research by health experts. A study conducted between 2018 and 2021 by senior lecturers from the University of Nairobi and pathologists from Kenyatta National Hospital identified crucial gaps in the training and practice of morticians.
KMTC emphasized that the training program equips students with the skills and mindset required to handle human remains with dignity and professionalism, preparing them for careers both in Kenya and internationally.
KMTC Flooded with Applications for Mortuary Science Course.
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