By Emily Jepkemoi
The Dean, Dr. Geoffrey Sikolia, School of Communication, Cinematic and Creative Arts (SCCCA) held an open discussion with students from the BA. Journalism program in the Media and Communication Department on Thursday, February 1. The meeting convened by the by the Chair of the Department Ms. Robi Koki Ochieng and Silvester Mutua, Chair, Department of Cinematic and Creative Arts.

The meeting brought together faculty, staff and students in the department to interact, raise concerns and share ideas on how to improve the program and the School. The students in attendance were Journalism students who are pursuing print media, broadcast media, public relations, and advertising.

The Dean encouraged the students to focus on their studies without limitations and gave example of many prominent and successful Kenyans who have been through the same program. The academic advisors of SCCCA listened to the issues from the students and promised to solve them amicably. The students were especially happy with the MAC PC’s that were newly acquired for the editing suites and the MA. Communication studies lab.

Issues discussed in the forum included modalities on how to be guided on the proper procedures used to select courses in the correct sequence, matters related to factors that led to poor academic standing, low enrolment and completion rate of the students in the program. The Dean and the Chair promised to have a new course scheduling structure. The Principal Academic Advisor, Mr. Isaac Chuma and the Academic Advisor, Emily Jepkemoi, were at hand to give clear direction on what is required of them when it comes to course registration, grading and academic matters. Special emphasis was given on the need to have a course advising form, processes and policies, actions and consequences of not adhering to the said requirements.

The School leadership is also keen on improving the content of the program to meet industry needs with the rollout of the recently reviewed Journalism curriculum that emphasizes on intensive writing skills, digital and social media skills and competencies .The Chair informed the students on the available career paths available in the industry and promised the students that she will link them with industry professionals for mentorship as they continue with their studies and after they graduate.