Education and Training
Perioperative Theatre Technology in Kenya: A Career Path for High School Graduates
Article by: Peter Omollo Updated: 24-Apr-2025The Perioperative Theatre Technology program in Kenya trains high school graduates to assist in surgical operations, offering certificate and diploma courses. With strong job prospects and global opportunities, it’s ideal for medical career seekers. Alternatives include nursing, clinical medicine, and veterinary medicine.
For high school graduates in Kenya eager to embark on a rewarding career in the medical field, the Perioperative Theatre Technology (PTT) program offers an exciting and impactful pathway. This specialized course equips students with the skills to assist surgical teams in operating rooms, ensuring patient safety and smooth surgical procedures. With a growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in Kenya and beyond, PTT is a marketable and fulfilling career choice. This article explores the PTT program, its requirements, colleges offering it, career prospects, and alternative medical courses for those considering other options.
What is Perioperative Theatre Technology?
Perioperative Theatre Technology trains individuals to become vital members of the surgical team, often referred to as Operating Theatre Technicians (OTTs) or surgical technologists. These professionals work alongside surgeons, anesthetists, and nurses, performing critical tasks such as:
Preparing and sterilizing the operating room and surgical instruments.
Assisting during surgeries by handling equipment and ensuring a sterile environment.
Preventing nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections.
Maintaining patient and theatre team safety.
Managing theatre equipment and performing administrative duties.
The role is dynamic, blending technical expertise with patient care, making it ideal for those who thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.
Why Choose Perioperative Theatre Technology?
Marketability: Kenya’s healthcare sector is expanding, with a 20% shortage of skilled perioperative technicians, ensuring high demand in public, private, and mission-based hospitals.
Global Opportunities: Graduates can work internationally in countries like the UK, USA, and Germany, where their skills are valued.
Accessible Entry Requirements: The program accommodates students with moderate KCSE grades, making it accessible to many high school graduates.
Quick Entry into the Workforce: Certificate programs take one year, and diploma programs take 1.5 to 2 years, allowing graduates to start their careers relatively quickly.
Competitive Salaries: Theatre assistants earn an average of KSh 72,000 monthly, with salaries ranging from KSh 50,000 to KSh 192,000 depending on experience and employer.
Program Levels and Requirements
The PTT program is offered at two levels: Certificate and Diploma. Each has specific entry requirements and durations, catering to students with varying KCSE grades.
Certificate in Perioperative Theatre Technology
Duration: 1 year, including a 3-month industrial attachment in a recognized hospital.
KCSE Requirements: Minimum mean grade of D plain or D+ (varies by institution). No specific subject requirements.
Cost: Tuition fees range from KSh 80,000 to KSh 120,000 per year. For example, Kenya School of Medical and Health Sciences charges KSh 90,000 annually, while Nairobi Women’s Hospital College charges KSh 120,000.
Examination Body: TVET Curriculum Development, Assessment, and Certification Council (CDACC).
Diploma in Perioperative Theatre Technology
Duration: 1.5 to 2 years, including a 3-month industrial attachment and a 6-month internship.
KCSE Requirements: Minimum mean grade of C- (minus). Some colleges, like Jordan Hospital Medical College, may require a C plain in Mathematics, English/Kiswahili, Biology, and Chemistry.
Cost: Tuition fees range from KSh 60,000 to KSh 150,000 per year. Public colleges offer subsidized rates, around KSh 5,000 per semester, excluding additional costs like accommodation.
Examination Body: TVET CDACC or institution-specific assessments.
Students who complete the certificate program can advance to the diploma level, typically taking an additional 1.5 years.
Colleges Offering Perioperative Theatre Technology in Kenya
Numerous colleges across Kenya offer PTT programs, accredited by bodies like TVET and the Ministry of Education. Below is a list of prominent institutions:
Nairobi Women’s Hospital College (Nairobi)
Offers both certificate (D plain) and diploma (C- minus) programs.
Located along Kikuyu Road, Dagoretti South.
Kenya School of Medical Science and Technology (Thika Town)
Offers certificate (D plain) and diploma (C- minus) programs.
Emphasizes hands-on training with a comprehensive curriculum.
Sister Leonella Consolata Medical College (Nyeri)
Offers certificate (D plain) and diploma (C- minus) programs at Sacred Heart Campus.
Affiliated with Consolata Mathari Hospital, providing robust clinical exposure.
Kismet International College (Nairobi)
Offers a certificate program with a focus on global career opportunities.
Known for practical training and international accreditation.
Outspan Medical College (Nyeri)
Offers Level 5 (certificate) and Level 6 (diploma) programs.
Affiliated with Outspan Hospital, a leading private hospital.
Imperial College of Medical and Health Sciences (Thika)
Offers certificate (D+ plus) and diploma (C- minus) programs.
Nyahururu Medical Training College (Nyahururu)
Offers a 1-year certificate program accredited by CDACC.
Located along Nyahururu–Nyeri Road.
AIC Kapsowar Medical Training College (Kapsowar)
Offers certificate (D plain) and diploma (C plain) programs.
Accredited by the Nursing Council of Kenya.
Other notable institutions include:
Jordan Hospital Medical College (Kitui)
The Karen Hospital Medical Training College (Nairobi)
AIC Litein Medical Training College (Litein)
Our Lady of Lourdes Mutomo College of Health Sciences (Mutomo)
PCEA Chogoria Mission Hospital’s Clive Irvine College (Tharaka Nithi)
Westwick College of Health Sciences (Nairobi)
Medprime Training College (Nairobi)
Note: The Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) does not currently offer PTT programs. Always verify intake schedules and fees directly with the institutions, as they may vary.
Career Prospects
Graduates of PTT programs can pursue roles such as:
Theatre Technicians: Assisting in operating rooms, managing equipment, and ensuring sterility.
Surgical Assistants: Supporting surgeons during procedures.
Operation Theatre Managers: Overseeing theatre operations in hospitals.
Employment opportunities exist in:
Public and private hospitals.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with medical facilities.
International healthcare settings, especially for diploma holders.
The average salary for theatre assistants ranges from KSh 50,000 to KSh 192,000, with experienced professionals earning higher. Perioperative nurses, a potential career progression, earn around KSh 50,000 on average.
Challenges to Consider
High-Pressure Environment: Operating rooms require quick thinking and precision under stress.
Practical Demands: The course involves extensive hands-on training, with no part-time options at most colleges.
Cost: Tuition fees can be a barrier, though scholarships, bursaries, and government loans (e.g., HELB) are available at some institutions.
Alternative Medical Courses in Kenya
For high school graduates exploring other medical career paths, several alternative programs are accessible and marketable. These options cater to varying KCSE grades and interests:
Certificate/Diploma in Health Records and Information Technology
Description: Trains students to manage patient records and health information systems.
KCSE Requirements: D plain (certificate), C- minus (diploma).
Duration: 1 year (certificate), 2 years (diploma).
Colleges: Nyahururu Medical Training College, KMTC, Outspan Medical College.
Career Prospects: Health records officers in hospitals and clinics, with salaries averaging KSh 40,000–100,000.
Why Choose?: Ideal for those interested in administrative roles in healthcare with less patient interaction.
Certificate/Diploma in Community Health Nursing
Description: Prepares students to provide nursing care in community and hospital settings.
KCSE Requirements: C plain with C in Biology and English/Kiswahili (diploma).
Duration: 3 years (diploma).
Colleges: KMTC, Matibabu College, AIC Kapsowar Medical Training College.
Career Prospects: Community health nurses in public health programs, earning KSh 50,000–150,000.
Why Choose?: Offers broader nursing skills and opportunities for further specialization.
Certificate/Diploma in Clinical Medicine and Surgery
Description: Trains clinical officers to diagnose and treat patients under supervision.
KCSE Requirements: C plain with C in Biology and English/Kiswahili (diploma).
Duration: 3 years (diploma).
Colleges: KMTC, Nyahururu Medical Training College, Thika School of Medical and Health Sciences.
Career Prospects: Clinical officers in hospitals, earning KSh 60,000–200,000.
Why Choose?: Provides a direct patient care role with high demand.
Certificate in Health Services Support (Caregiving)
Description: Focuses on patient care assistance, including hygiene and mobility support.
KCSE Requirements: D plain.
Duration: 1 year.
Colleges: Matibabu College, Beta Care Training Institute.
Career Prospects: Caregivers in hospitals or home care, earning KSh 30,000–80,000.
Why Choose?: Quick entry into healthcare with minimal academic requirements.
Diploma in Animal Health or Veterinary Medicine
Description: Trains professionals to care for animals, ideal for those passionate about veterinary work.
KCSE Requirements: C+ with C+ in Biology and Chemistry.
Duration: 3 years.
Colleges: University of Nairobi, Chuka University, Bukura Agricultural College.
Career Prospects: Veterinary technicians or officers, earning KSh 50,000–150,000.
Why Choose?: Suits students interested in animal care rather than human healthcare.
How to Choose the Right Path
When deciding between PTT and alternative programs, consider:
Academic Qualifications: Ensure your KCSE grades meet the program requirements.
Interests: PTT suits those who enjoy technical and surgical environments, while nursing or clinical medicine appeals to those who prefer direct patient care.
Financial Resources: Compare tuition fees and explore funding options like HELB or scholarships.
Career Goals: Research job market trends and long-term prospects in Kenya and abroad.
Practical Training: Prioritize colleges with strong clinical attachments and hands-on training.
Getting Started
Research Colleges: Contact institutions for intake schedules (often March, May, or September) and application details.
Prepare Finances: Budget for tuition and additional costs like accommodation and uniforms. Apply for HELB loans or scholarships if eligible.
Apply Early: Submit applications online or in-person, ensuring all documents (KCSE certificate, ID, etc.) are ready.
Visit Campuses: If possible, tour facilities to assess training equipment and clinical partnerships.
Conclusion
The Perioperative Theatre Technology program is an excellent choice for high school graduates passionate about contributing to surgical care. With accessible entry requirements, a relatively short study duration, and strong job prospects, it offers a practical entry into the medical field. Colleges like Nairobi Women’s Hospital College, Beta Care Training Institute, and Outspan Medical College provide quality training to prepare students for success. For those exploring other paths, programs like Community Health Nursing, Clinical Medicine, or Animal Health offer equally rewarding opportunities. By aligning your interests, grades, and career goals, you can confidently take the first step toward a fulfilling medical career in Kenya.