The Railway Training Institute (RTI) is one of the most prestigious and long-standing institutions in the East African region. Established to meet the region’s growing demands for skilled labor in various sectors, the institute has steadily evolved, offering a wide range of programs in multiple disciplines. Over time, the institute expanded its academic offerings to include commercial courses, a move that was officially recognized by the Ministry of Education in 1988. RTI has since become a vital player in providing technical and professional education, particularly in transport and logistics, engineering, and business management, among other fields.
Courses Offered at the Railway Training Institute
RTI offers over 100 programs ranging from advanced diplomas, diplomas, certificates, crafts, and short courses across various disciplines. These courses are housed in several schools that cover:
- Business Management
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Transport and Logistics
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Information Sciences
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Railway Professional Programs
The following is a breakdown of some key programs offered at RTI and their entry requirements.
Certificate Courses
- Certificate in Civil Engineering
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D+
- Duration: 3 Terms
- Certificate in Electrical Installation (Wireman)
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D
- Duration: 3 Terms
- Certificate in Food & Beverage
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D
- Duration: 1 Semester
- Certificate in Information Technology (IVQ)
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D
- Duration: 2 Terms
- Certificate in Motor Vehicle Systems
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D
- Duration: 3 Terms
- Certificate in Plumbing
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade D+
- Duration: 3 Terms
Diploma Courses
- Diploma in Civil Engineering (Module 1)
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C-
- Duration: 3 Terms
- Diploma in Business Management (Module 1)
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C-
- Duration: 2 Terms
- Diploma in Logistics & Transport
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C-
- Duration: 2 Semesters (Part-Time)
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (Automotive)
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C-
- Duration: 3 Terms
- Diploma in Refrigeration & Air Conditioning
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C-
- Duration: 3 Terms
- Diploma in Social Work & Community Development (Module 2)
- Requirements: KCSE Mean Grade C- or Certificate of the same
- Duration: 2 Terms
Advanced Diploma Courses
- Advanced Diploma in Logistics & Transport (Part-Time)
- Requirements: Diploma in Logistics & Transport Management
- Duration: 2 Semesters
- Higher Diploma in Telecommunication Engineering (Part-Time)
- Requirements: Diploma in Electrical & Electronics Engineering (Power/Telecommunication Option)
- Duration: 6 Terms
Short Courses
- Locomotive Driving
- Requirements: Diploma in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical & Electronics Engineering (Not more than 35 years of age, certificate of good conduct)
- Duration: 6 Months
- Fees: KES 212,000
- Railway Track Maintenance
- Requirements: Diploma in Construction (Civil Engineering or Building Construction), certificate of good conduct
- Duration: 3 Months
- Fees: KES 112,000
- Electrical Installation Maintenance
- Requirements: Diploma in Electrical & Electronics Engineering, certificate of good conduct
- Duration: 3 Months
- Fees: KES 112,000
Railway Training Institute Fee Structure
Students enrolling in the Railway Training Institute can expect the following costs:
- Registration Fee: KES 1,000 (one-time)
- Library Fee: KES 2,000 per term
- I/D Card: KES 1,000
- Activity Fee: KES 500 per term
- Insurance: KES 1,500 per term
- Computer Fee: KES 2,000 per term
- Caution Money: KES 1,000 (one-time)
- Practical Fee: KES 3,500 per term
- Internal Examination Fee: KES 1,500 per term
- Convocational Fee: KES 1,000
- Clubs & Societies: KES 500 per term
- Total Cost per Term: KES 15,600
Hostel and Cafeteria Charges
- Hostel Accommodation: KES 19,500 per term or KES 32,500 per semester.
- Cafeteria Meals (Optional): KES 5,000 per term.
Application Process
There are several ways to apply for courses at RTI:
- Physical Application: Visit the RTI campus and submit the required documents in person.
- Email Application: Send your application documents, including academic certificates and bank deposit slip, to admission@rti.ac.ke.
- Online Application: You can apply through RTI’s website, where instructions are provided.
- Postal Application: Send your documents to the Director, Railway Training Institute, Nairobi.
The Railway Training Institute remains a leader in offering specialized training in transport, logistics, and other technical fields. With its rich history and modernized curriculum, RTI is an excellent choice for students aspiring to excel in engineering, business, and transport-related careers.
