The School of Music and Media provided a valuable opportunity for aspiring writers and mass communication students, courtesy of the Kabarak Journalism Club, with a writer's training session today. The event ran from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
In attendance was Zubeida Kananu Koome, President of the Editors' Guild, who brought a valuable perspective, speaking about the crucial role of passion in journalism. She highlighted how an innate love for writing drives journalists to seek truth, tell compelling stories, and hold power to account. Koome emphasized the importance of continuous learning and skill development, particularly in the digital age. "Young people have a unique opportunity," she noted, "given their familiarity and comfort with the digital landscape. They are needed to bridge the gap and shape the future of journalism."
Koome also stressed the importance of adhering to the Code of Conduct for journalists, which promotes accurate reporting and builds public trust. "Understanding and upholding these ethical standards is paramount," she explained, "as it ensures the credibility and impact of our stories." Sharing her own experiences, Koome discussed the challenges of online harassment and the importance of resilience. "Developing a thick skin is essential," she advised, "learning to discern what feedback to absorb and what to disregard."
Dr. Michael Ndonye, Acting Dean of the School of Music and Media and a columnist for the Standard Media Group, shared valuable insights on skill development in journalism. He emphasized that journalism is a learned and practiced skill, urging students to begin honing their abilities now while they are young. Dr. Ndonye encouraged attendees to broaden their thinking and familiarize themselves with the policies that govern writing. He also shared the inspiring quote, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step," to underscore the importance of taking that initial leap.
Caroline Chebet, a mass communication student who also works as a freelance writer for the Standard Media Group, spoke to attendees about the importance of starting to write. She emphasized the significance of feature stories, describing them as the "pulse of the newsroom" and explaining how they delve deeper than typical news reports, exploring the "how" and "why" behind events. She encouraged students, stressing that it's never too early to begin and that opportunities present themselves to those who actively seek them.
This training served as a testament to the institution's commitment to providing a holistic education. The insights shared by experienced professionals, coupled with the encouragement to begin practicing the craft of writing early, underscore the university's focus on practical skills development. It not only equipped students with valuable tools for their future careers in journalism and writing but also fostered crucial life skills such as networking, communication, and proactive learning. This training exemplifies the university's mission to empower students with the knowledge and abilities necessary to make a meaningful impact on the world.
