RONGO UNIERSITY- MEDIA COUNCIL OF KENYA (MCK) PARTNERSHIP

By Marren Akong’o

On 16th March 2022, the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) visited Rongo University to strengthen their collaboration in the training of Communication and Journalism. MCK gave a career talk to students of Journalism on professional positioning and also deliberated on a memorandum of understanding with RU on partnership in the training of Journalism. MCK observed that there is a gap between training and the industry, thus, training institutions must focus on imparting the right competencies that will give their students an upper edge. However, recognizing the exemplary work exhibited by journalism graduates from Rongo University, MCK was proud of Rongo University’s department of Communication and Journalism and was ready to partner with them in a number of ways. Rongo University DVC academic and student affairs, Prof. Onkware expressed gratitude for the goodwill that has existed between RU and MCK. He mentioned that having collaborated with MCK on several activities including curriculum review, signing of MoU between the two institutions will basically cement their partnership.

MCK regional coordinator for Nyanza and Western, Mr. Teddy Evans, mentioned that having partnership with Rongo University will open more opportunities including curriculum development and review, training of short courses in journalism, organizing conferences, mentorship and offering grants and paid internships to students of journalism. Mr. Julius Sigei, the coordinator for training and curriculum development at MCK observed that since MCK is mandated to set standards and compliance in Journalism practice, they are ready to partner with RU in developing and reviewing of journalism curriculum and offering short courses that will enable students of journalism positioned themselves for the job market. During the visit, Rongo University students of journalism were also offered accreditation by the MCK, a formal process that enable them to be officially recognized as journalists.

Members of the department of Communication, Journalism and Media Studies were elated and very grateful for the support that MCK has always offered to their department and looked forward to a fruitful partnership.  “MCK has always been present in our activities and we don’t take this for granted.” Said the HoD, Dr. Millicent. They urged students to apply for the paid internship opportunities in large numbers once it is advertised. In 2021 three students of Rongo University won the highly competitive MCK paid internship while one student won MCK grant.