JKUAT University to Launch Master’s Program in Rehabilitation Science

Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology to Launch Master’s Program in Rehabilitation Science

The Jomo Kenyatta University of Science and Technology (JKUAT) is set to introduce a Master’s Degree Program in Rehabilitation Science aimed at training specialists to provide support services for individuals with disabilities.

This initiative responds to the increasing demand for professionals in various rehabilitation fields, including physical therapy, speech therapy, and pathology.

Dr. Mwangi Matheri, the Head of the Rehabilitation Sciences Department at JKUAT, emphasized that the program is designed to mitigate the current shortage of rehabilitation professionals and educators in Kenya, particularly as the population of individuals with disabilities continues to grow.

He indicated that efforts are underway to integrate this program into the higher education curriculum to ensure the sustainable training of qualified practitioners in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and pathology.

Dr. Matheri noted that the program is scheduled to commence in September 2026, creating numerous employment opportunities for graduates in academia as trainers, rehabilitation officers, and independent rehabilitation practitioners.

“The introduction of this program is timely, given the dual burden of infectious and non-communicable chronic health conditions in Sub-Saharan Africa, which affects over 210 million individuals. Currently, the number of specialists in this domain is insufficient,” stated Dr. Matheri.

These views were supported by Professor Graziella Van den Bergh, the leader of the AfroRehab project, who highlighted ongoing collaborations with several African nations to facilitate the program’s introduction in their universities.

“Through our partnerships with African countries, we have identified a critical need for capacity building and the development of more professionals in this field,” she remarked.

Professor Van den Bergh encouraged students to enroll in this program to advance their academic pursuits, enhance their career prospects, and contribute to the well-being of individuals experiencing disabilities globally.

Additionally, Dr. Naomi Wanjiru, a lecturer at Moi University, pointed out that the program will enhance accessibility to rehabilitation services, as many individuals currently travel to universities for expert assistance, which is often both costly and time-consuming.

She further noted that prospective students interested in this field frequently seek training opportunities abroad.

This program represents a collaborative effort involving four African universities and two European institutions from Norway and Finland.