NAIROBI, Kenya- The National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU) marked a historic milestone on Tuesday, hosting its inaugural graduation ceremony for the Class of 2026, the first cohort to graduate since the university received its charter from President William Ruto in November 2024.
NIRU is Africa’s first university dedicated entirely to intelligence education, and the graduates come from across the continent, including Kenya, Burundi, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The ceremony, which was hosted by President William Ruto, celebrated not just academic achievement but the creation of a pan-African network of intelligence professionals committed to shaping the continent’s security future.
“Today’s graduates have been trained, nurtured, and prepared to operate in a unique and challenging environment. Step out boldly, upholding the values and ideals of your alma mater,” NIRU Vice-Chancellor Dr. James K. Kibon said.
The university’s learner-centered approach combines simulations, case studies, practicums, and symposia to equip students with practical skills for real-world intelligence and security challenges.
Currently, NIRU offers four master’s programs in Intelligence, Policy, Technology, and Communication Studies.
At the heart of the institution’s strategy is research and innovation.
Research and innovation are at the core of NIRU’s strategic mandate. The Artificial Intelligence Academy leverages AI to address security and health challenges, and a Research and Innovation Park is being established to translate academic research into practical solutions.
The Artificial Intelligence Academy applies AI to address security and health challenges, while a Research and Innovation Park is being established to translate academic findings into tangible solutions for governments and communities.
“One year after the award of our Charter, we are now fully empowered to serve the intelligence community through innovative education and cutting-edge research,” Dr. Kibon added, noting the mentorship from the National Defence University of Kenya.
Director-General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), Noordin Haji, hailed the graduates as Africa’s next generation of strategic leaders.
“Africa must assume full responsibility for its security, development, and institutional resilience; outsourcing this priority is no longer viable,” Haji said.
NIRU’s learner-centered approach combines simulations, case studies, practicums, and symposia to prepare students for real-world intelligence challenges. At the forefront of research and innovation, the university brings together experts to tackle emerging security threats.
He also acknowledged support from the President, Cabinet, and relevant ministries for mentoring NIRU to academic excellence.
He said the Class of 2026 will return to their home countries prepared to lead in intelligence, policy analysis, and strategic security, reinforcing Kenya’s and Africa’s capacity to respond to emerging security threats independently.
“Joint education and research, Africa policy matters, can anticipate risk, manage competition, and act together. You thus stand at the forefront of building this organization,” the NIS boss said.
“By shaping the next target of intelligence and national security leaders, the university is contributing to the emergence of an African shield, a resilient, cooperative security architecture, and a sustainable security defense.”
