Nairobi Hospital’s Cicely McDonell College of Health Sciences Marks Its 31st Graduation Ceremony, Graduates 140 New Healthcare Professionals
NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 29 – The Nairobi Hospital’s Cicely McDonell College of Health Sciences on Friday 28th November 2025 marked a major milestone as it celebrated its 31st Graduation Ceremony, conferring diplomas and certificates to 140 nurses and healthcare assistants.
The event not only marks a major milestone for the institution but also underscores the College’s long-standing dedication to upholding the highest standards of excellence in healthcare training and its continuously expanding and crucial role in addressing the evolving healthcare needs of both Kenya and the wider region.
This year’s graduating class includes 89 Registered Nurses (Diploma), 32 Higher Diploma Nurses specializing in Trauma & Emergency, Critical Care, Perioperative and Oncology Nursing, and 19 Health Care Assistants, the first cohort under the newly accredited program.
Dr. Margaret Sirima, Principal Cicely McDonell while speaking at the ceremony celebrated the graduating class of 2025 and lauded the institution’s heritage and dedication that has defined its mission.
“Today’s graduation ceremony gives me great joy and pride because we are officially commissioning 140 future professionals who will be at the frontlines in the fight against diseases and advancing universal healthcare goals across the world Our objective is to ensure every graduand is equipped with critical knowledge to tackle modern health challenges and meaningfully contribute to sustainable health outcomes regardless of where they work across the world ,” said Dr Sirima.
“Our College continues to draw inspiration from the remarkable legacy of Sister Cicely McDonell, whose life of service and compassion set the foundation we stand on today.”
This year, 98.5% of graduates passed their professional licensing examinations, demonstrating their competence and readiness for practice.
Dr. Sirima also recognized the critical role of training partners, including The Nairobi Hospital Nursing Services, the Nursing Council of Kenya, Kenyatta National Hospital, Pumwani Maternity, Gertude’s Institute, Mathari Hospital, Nairobi City County Clinics, Daystar University, Health Logic and IntraHealth.
The Nairobi Hospital’s CEO Felix Osano reaffirmed the institution’s unwavering commitment to producing world-class healthcare professionals.
”The future professionals graduating today have overcome many hurdles in their professional training We celebrate not only their academic achievements but their resilience and dedication to participating in transforming communities and driving sustainable development in healthcare,” said Mr Osano.
“Cicely McDonell College has, for 71 years, maintained its reputation as a centre of excellence in healthcare training. Its graduates are in high demand locally and internationally, working in leading hospitals across Britain, America, Australia, and Germany.”He added.
“Today, you stand at the threshold of immense opportunity you are entering a world where digital transformation, Artificial Intelligence, and automation are shaping the future. However, the world does not only need your skills, it needs your values Integrity must remain your compass as you innovate and lead Remember transformation is not about status it is about impact Let your work uplift others and contribute meaningfully to our nation’s progress So go forth and serve with integrity”.
Principal Secretary, State Department for Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni who presided over the ceremony while delivering her address on behalf of the Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale praised the graduating class outlining government’s ongoing initiatives to strengthen the healthcare workforce.
“I celebrate the graduating class of 2025 for your resilience, dedication, and commitment to service You are stepping into a profession that is the backbone of every health system across the world,” said Ms Muthoni.
Ps Muthoni added that the Ministry continues to invest in digital health and AI-driven platforms such as the Electronic Community Health Information System (eCHIS) to support decision-making and improve healthcare service delivery.
“We have also rolled out strategic initiatives to expand global opportunities, enhance leadership roles, improve welfare and support professional development for nurses this includes formalizing bilateral agreements with the UK and Germany for ethical international recruitment”.
Dr. Barcley Onyambu, Chair, Board of Management, Kenya Hospital Association while congratulating graduands for achieving the great milestone in their academic life recognize the excellent achievements made by the College in producing qualified and skilled nurses as well as healthcare assistants who are in great demand locally and internationally.
“This success comes with hard work, commitment and cooperation between the management, clinical staff, lecturers and the students this hard work and cooperation have sustained our academic excellence over the years”.
Dr. Onyambu noted that the Board has actively supported the growth and expansion of the College by facilitating the training of Health Care Assistants and providing access to the hospital’s facilities for practical training, helping the College realize its vision of becoming a leading institution in healthcare education.
“When you go out into the world, use the professional nursing skills you have acquired to serve the nation You have been equipped to do this, I therefore urge you to impact society positively wherever you will find yourself after this is the surest way to success”.
The Cicely McDonnel alumni community, now spanning over 70 years, was also celebrated for sponsoring students and mentoring current cohorts.
As the Class of 2025 steps into the workforce, the College reaffirmed its commitment to shaping healthcare professionals who uphold excellence, compassion and integrity.
