Why Kenya's Mortuary Science Course is Drawing Hundreds of Applicants

The Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) is witnessing a significant increase in applications for its mortuary science courses, which were launched in March 2023.

The program has quickly gained traction, with 250 applicants competing for just 50 available slots, far surpassing initial enrollment expectations, according to KMTC CEO Kelly Oluoch. Initially met with modest interest, the program's popularity has surged over the past year, prompting KMTC to expand its facilities to accommodate the growing number of aspiring morticians. However, the institution is committed to maintaining a regulated intake to ensure high educational standards.

“These are organizations already offering mortuary services and looking to strengthen their technical capacity. Additionally, individuals seeking to venture into the mortuary business find our program highly beneficial,” he said.

Many of the applicants are supported by health facilities or private organizations aiming to enhance their technical capabilities in the mortuary sector. Historically, mortuary attendants in Kenya received informal training through on-the-job experiences. A significant study conducted from 2018 to 2021 by senior lecturers from the University of Nairobi, in collaboration with pathologists from Kenyatta National Hospital, identified substantial training deficiencies within this model.

In response, KMTC's formal curriculum focuses on equipping students with the essential skills and professional mindset required for the respectful and proficient handling of human remains. What began as a program exclusive to the Nairobi Campus has now expanded to multiple KMTC locations, with intentions to introduce the course at four additional campuses soon. This geographic expansion reflects an increasing recognition of the need for formal training within the mortuary sector, as well as a response to the mounting demand for qualified professionals.

The growing interest in mortuary science at KMTC highlights a transformative shift in Kenya's mortuary industry. By providing structured, comprehensive training, KMTC is addressing the urgent need for skilled morticians, which will ultimately contribute to the enhancement of mortuary services nationwide.