More Kenyan health workers are finding jobs abroad, with new figures showing that many of those heading to Germany are graduates from Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC).
Recent data shows that at least 84 KMTC graduates have already secured jobs in Germany in the latest recruitment drive. Other universities have also had some of their students picked, including Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology with 27 graduates, Moi University with 7, and Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology with 4.
According to African Business Community CEO Dr Kelly Oluoch, the number is expected to grow, with about 159 more graduates being prepared before they can travel.
Most of those being recruited are physiotherapists, as Germany is currently facing a shortage of healthcare workers. The demand has opened doors for many young Kenyans looking for opportunities outside the country.
Earlier in March, officials from the recruitment agency visited KMTC to see how students can be better prepared for jobs abroad. Part of the plan includes teaching them the German language, helping them get their certificates recognised, and guiding them as they settle into a new country.
KMTC says it is now working to open more doors for its graduates across the world. In the past, many have gone to countries like the UK, the US and Australia, but Germany is now becoming a popular destination.
Germany’s aging population has increased the need for healthcare workers, especially physiotherapists, creating more chances for trained professionals.
For some, the opportunity has already changed their lives. One of the graduates, Alex Omweri, who is now working in Germany, says he never imagined he would one day work outside Kenya.
“Honestly, I didn’t expect to work abroad, but this chance has helped me grow both in my career and as a person,” he said.
Apart from physiotherapists, the programme is also opening opportunities for nurses, dentists and pharmacists, giving more Kenyan health workers a chance to build their careers beyond the country.
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