When Zerrah Gwazi Maumba completed secondary school in Nyamira County, his dream, like that of many young Kenyans, was to pursue a career in medicine.
When his grades did not align with that path, he found himself at a crossroads familiar to many students.
Rather than give up, Zerrah chose a different route, one that would later redefine his purpose.
In 2023, with guidance from a mentor, he enrolled at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) to pursue a Diploma in Mortuary Science, an emerging and essential field within clinical and biomedical training.
“It wasn’t my original plan,” he recalls.
When did Zerrah Gwazi Maumba graduate?
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“It wasn’t easy. The training was intense and demanding. It taught me perseverance and the importance of staying committed, even when the journey feels uncertain,” he said..
After graduation, the 23-year-old volunteered at Kisii University, gaining hands-on experience as he prepared for the job market.
A few weeks later, he came across a job advert at Maseno University in the School of Medicine, Department of Human Anatomy Laboratory.
“I applied, attended the interview, and was successful. It felt like a dream, especially knowing how competitive the job market can be,” he noted.
His role places him at the centre of training future healthcare professionals, supporting the learning of nurses and public health practitioners.
His experience also reflects the strong mentorship culture at KMTC.
He credits professionals such as Prof. Domnic Marera and Dr. Cyprian Ratemo Makiya for guiding his growth and inspiring his ambitions.
At KMTC, the programme combines rigorous theoretical training with practical exposure.
Zerrah recalls travelling from Nairobi to Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) for hands-on training, an experience that strengthened his skills and expanded his professional network.
Is mortuary science course marketable?
As Kenya continues to strengthen its healthcare system, the demand for skilled professionals in mortuary services, forensic support, and anatomical sciences is growing.
KMTC is at the forefront of training in these critical, often overlooked disciplines.
The Mortuary Science programme is offered at select KMTC campuses, providing students with access to modern training facilities, experienced faculty, and structured clinical exposure.
Zerrah’s message to prospective students is clear: “Go for what you want, not what others expect of you. Never lose hope. Work hard. Even if the journey takes time, keep going. Your path is valid.”
