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Showing posts with label FEATURE STORIES. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FEATURE STORIES. Show all posts

Abled differently but chasing glory

STORY By JOSHUA MULI

A clunk sound is heard from a far every morning coming from the campus bustling hallways. The sound that has been familiar to the university life. Rose is a second-year student at Chuka university pursuing Bachelor of Arts in Education.
Crutches can be used as a form of mobility and support when you have legs injured after an accident.

According to Rose, her passion not only for teaching and coaching but also interacting with young people by giving guidance and growth and mostly helping the disabled in the community. 

Rose was involved in a car accident four years back causing huge damage on her lower limps which lead her to using crutches as form of mobility and support. For Rose, her situation does not limit her and see it as a barrier but unique perception that fuels more passion to education “I think people like me have unique strength and capabilities”, she narrates.

Access to university is a right for all people.  However, access to higher education for people with disability has its challenges. 

In recent years, higher education has placed greater emphasis on equality, diversity, commitment to create an inclusive and accessible environment.  Disabled students remain systematically disadvantaged compared to the non-disabled. 

Her friends help her carry bag stuff between classes and she sometimes do it for herself. It is pretty much impossible to do without terribleness.

 The amount of effort and pain her arms tire by swinging with crutches is evident. “I have to leave class early or late to avoid crowds that create risk of being knocked”. Her lecturers have been so supportive as they understand her situation by  providing accommodation such as allowing extra time to get to class because some structures have no access to elevators.

Beyond physical challenges, Rose also faces social complexities of university life.  “Initial awkwardness “as she calls it. “Students sometimes stare or are unsure how to interact with me “but when they get to know me it’s just like any other friendship as she has opportunities to make friends who understand her condition, making crutch friends and go for racing leagues. 

She never lets her disability define her. She is just Rose, a brilliant student and great friend. “I want to use my knowledge and experience to educate for greater inclusion and accessibility”. 

Her focus and ambition are beyond university to support students with disability.” Students living with disabilities have talents and deserve the opportunities to reach their full potentials. “Obstacles navigated with courage and grace, sounds that carries a message of hope.

The Feature Story Writer is a Second Year Student at Chuka University pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication

BRUTALITY against women should end

STORY By FRIDAH MUTHEU

Brutality against women is a pervasive and deeply troubling issue that affects women around the world. It encompasses a range of forms of violence, including physical, sexual and emotional abuse, as well economic and social discrimination.
Brutality against women is pervasive and affects many parts of the world.

The impact of brutality against women is devastating, both for the individuals who experience it and for society as a whole. Victims of brutality often suffer from physical injuries, mental health problems, and social isolation. They may also experience economic hardships as they may be unable to work or support themselves and their families.

Brutality against women is often perpetrated by intimate partners, family members, or other individuals known to the victim. It can also be perpetrated by strangers, such as in cases of sexual assault or harassment. In some cases, brutality against women is perpetrated by state actors, such as in cases of torture or enforced disappearance.

The causes of brutality against women are complex and multifaceted. They include patriarchal attitudes and gender stereotypes, economic inequality and power imbalances in society. In some cases, brutality against women is perpetuated by systemic and institutional factors, such as discriminatory laws and policies.

To address brutality against women, it is essential that we work to change societal attitudes and gender norms that perpetuate violence and discrimination. This includes promoting gender equality and challenging harmful gender stereotypes. It is also important to provide support and protection for victims of brutality, including access to healthcare, legal assistance, and social services.

In conclusion, brutality against women is a pervasive and deeply troubling issue that affects women around the world. It is essential that we work to address this issue and promote gender equality and justice for all.

The Opinion Piece Author is a Second Year Student at Chuka University pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication

DROUGHT crisis forces Baringo learners out of school

STORY By REGINALD ONDERI

The prolonged drought in Baringo County is having a devastating impact on education, with many learners forced to drop out of school due to hunger, thirst, and the struggle for survival. As water sources dry up and food becomes scarce, families are prioritizing basic needs over education, leading to dwindling school attendance in the most affected areas, such as Baringo North, and Baringo South.
A closed school.|FILE
Learners Forced to Drop Out

A visit to several schools  reveals an alarming situation.Many classrooms remain nearly empty, with only a handful of students struggling to concentrate on their lessons. Some children are too weak to walk long distances to school, while others have joined their families in migrating to areas with better water and pasture for livestock.

"We used to have over 200 pupils, but now we hardly get 50 in attendance," says Margaret , a headteacher at a primary school in the local. "Most of our learners have either moved away with their families or are simply too hungry to sit through lessons."

According to local education officials, at least 110 schools in the region have reported a sharp decline in student numbers. In South, over 100 learning institutions are struggling to keep their doors open as families flee to areas with more water and food.

Hunger and Water Shortages Affect Learning

For those who remain in school, learning is a daily battle against hunger. Many students go for days without proper meals, making it difficult for them to concentrate in class. Schools that previously relied on government and donor-funded feeding programs are now running out of food supplies, leaving learners with no option but to stay home.

"Sometimes I come to school without eating anything," says 10-year-old , a student in North. "By midday, I feel too weak to continue with lessons, and I just want to sleep."

The water crisis has also taken a toll on education. In many schools, students have to walk several kilometers to fetch water before lessons begin. Some spend hours at drying rivers, waiting for water to seep through the cracked ground. Others miss school altogether to help their parents search for water for household use and livestock.

Impact on Girls' Education

The drought has disproportionately affected girls, who face additional challenges such as increased domestic responsibilities and early marriages. With families struggling to put food on the table, some parents are marrying off their daughters in exchange for dowry as a survival strategy.

"Some girls have dropped out because they are being married off," says a local administrator  "Parents believe this is the only way to secure their survival during these tough times."

Government and Humanitarian Interventions

In response to the crisis, the National Drought Management Authority  and other humanitarian organizations have stepped in to provide temporary relief. Water trucking services have been deployed to some schools, and food aid is being distributed to the most affected families. However, these efforts are not enough to address the long-term challenges facing learners in the region.

"Short-term interventions like food aid are helpful, but we need sustainable solutions," says Peter Komen, a local education officer. "We need a permanent school feeding program, improved water supply systems, and policies that ensure children stay in school even during drought seasons."
        
Call for Urgent Action

With the drought showing no signs of easing, education stakeholders are calling on the government and development partners to scale up interventions. They are urging for the expansion of school feeding programs, drilling of boreholes, and provision of emergency relief to prevent further school dropouts.

"We cannot afford to lose a generation of learners to drought," says Komen. "Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, and we must do everything possible to keep our children in school."

As the crisis deepens, the future of thousands of learners in Baringo remains uncertain. Without urgent intervention, the drought could leave a lasting impact on education in the region, robbing children of their right to learn and build a better future.


The Feature Story Writer is a second year student at Chuka University pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication.

Elon Musk and AI; The Vision, the Warnings and the Future

STORY By SPRENSER MWALAKHA

When one thinks of technological innovation in the modern era, it is almost impossible to overlook the profound impact Elon Musk has had on the world. A visionary entrepreneur, inventor, and arguably one of the most influential figures of our time, Musk is synonymous with ambitious goals and unprecedented achievements. Yet, among his many ventures—spanning electric cars, space exploration, and hyperloop technology—Musk's connection to artificial intelligence (AI) stands out as an area of both remarkable enthusiasm and stark caution.
Elon Musk

Elon Musk's relationship with AI is a juxtaposition of immense promise and dire warnings. On one hand, he has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of AI's potential through various ventures; on the other hand, he has been a vocal critic, warning of its dangers and advocating for responsible innovation.

This article delves into Musk's vision for AI, the warnings he has issued, and what he foresees for the future of this transformative technology.

Musk's Vision for AI

Revolutionizing Humanity's Potential
Elon Musk's vision for artificial intelligence has been deeply intertwined with his broader goal of improving human life and securing humanity's long-term survival. As the founder or co-founder of companies like Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and OpenAI, Musk has shown how AI can be harnessed to solve some of the world's most complex challenges.

AI in Tesla

Musk's application of AI in Tesla has arguably been one of the most prominent success stories of the decade. Tesla's Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) systems utilize advanced machine learning and neural networks to make vehicles safer, more efficient, and eventually, fully autonomous. 

Tesla's AI-based self-driving technology is designed to process a plethora of data from cameras, sensors, and radar to understand the vehicle's surroundings in real-time. The long-term vision is not just about creating self-driving cars but revolutionizing transportation entirely. Musk envisions a future where AI-powered Tesla Robotaxis reduce the need for individual car ownership, dramatically lower carbon emissions, and minimize road fatalities caused by human erors 

Neuralink represents perhaps Musk's boldest vision for AI. The company is developing brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) to create a direct communication link between humans and computers. Musk has described Neuralink as a solution to the existential threat posed by AI, arguing that merging with AI may be humanity's best chance to remain relevant in a world where machines surpass human intelligence.

By enabling humans to interact seamlessly with AI systems, Neuralink aims to empower individuals with enhanced cognitive capabilities, restore functionality to those with neurological disorders, and ultimately, create a symbiotic relationship between humans and technology.

Elon Musk co-founded OpenAI with the goal of ensuring that artificial general intelligence (AGI)—AI systems with human-like cognitive abilities—benefits all of humanity. Although Musk later distanced himself from the organization due to differing visions, OpenAI remains a testament to his commitment to responsible AI development. Musk has consistently advocated for AI that prioritizes ethical considerations, transparency, and accessibility.

Warnings from Musk

 The Risks of Unchecked AI Development
While Elon Musk champions the transformative potential of AI, he has also been one of its most outspoken critics. His warnings about the dangers of AI have sparked widespread debate and drawn attention to the ethical and safety challenges of this rapidly advancing technology.

Summoning the Demon": Musk's Alarm on AI Risks

One of Musk's most memorable warnings about AI came during an MIT conference in 2014, where he likened the development of AI to "summoning the demon." He emphasized that while AI has the potential to be the greatest technological advancement in human history, it also poses existential risks if not developed and regulated responsibly.

Musk's concerns revolve around the possibility of AI systems becoming uncontrollable and acting in ways that are misaligned with human values. He has frequently highlighted the need for proactive measures to mitigate these risks, including robust oversight, stringent safety protocols, and clear ethical guidelines.

Musk has repeatedly cautioned against the unregulated pursuit of AGI and superintelligence—AI systems capable of surpassing human intelligence across a wide range of tasks. He warns that such systems could potentially outsmart their creators and make decisions that are harmful to humanity.

Musk's fears are not unfounded. Leading AI researchers acknowledge that once machines achieve superintelligence, they may prioritize their own goals over those of humanity. This could lead to scenarios where AI systems exploit vulnerabilities in human decision-making, disrupt critical infrastructure, or even pose existential threats.


Elon Musk has called for greater regulatory oversight of AI development, arguing that governments and international organizations must work together to establish safeguards. In his view, the rapid pace of AI innovation necessitates a proactive approach to avoid unintended consequences.

To this end, Musk has supported initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration between governments, industry leaders, and researchers. He believes that a collective effort is essential to ensure that AI is developed in a manner that aligns with human values and prioritizes the well-being of society.

 The Future of AI

Musk's Predictions and Recommendations
Elon Musk's vision for the future of AI is a blend of optimism and caution. He envisions a world where AI is harnessed to address pressing global challenges, from climate change to healthcare, while also advocating for measures to prevent potential pitfalls.

Musk sees AI as a powerful tool for tackling some of humanity's most pressing problems. For example, AI-driven advancements in renewable energy could accelerate the transition to a sustainable future, while AI-powered medical technologies could revolutionize healthcare delivery and improve quality of life.

As the founder of SpaceX, Musk has also highlighted the potential of AI in space exploration. From autonomous spacecraft navigation to AI-driven planetary research, Musk envisions AI playing a critical role in humanity's quest to become a multi-planetary species.

While Musk is enthusiastic about AI's potential, he remains steadfast in his belief that innovation must be balanced with responsibility. He advocates for a "human-centered" approach to AI development that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and ethical considerations.

Conclusion

Elon Musk's relationship with AI is a paradoxical dance of ambition and apprehension. As a visionary entrepreneur, he has demonstrated how AI can be harnessed to revolutionize industries and improve lives. Yet, as a cautious realist, he has warned of the existential risks posed by unchecked AI development.

Through his work with Tesla, Neuralink, OpenAI, and other ventures, Musk has shown that AI can be both a force for good and a source of profound uncertainty. His warnings about the dangers of superintelligence serve as a reminder that the path to innovation must be navigated with care, foresight, and collaboration.

As we stand on the cusp of an AI-driven future, Musk's vision, warnings, and recommendations offer valuable insights into how humanity can harness the power of artificial intelligence while safeguarding against its potential risks. In the end, the trajectory of AI will depend not only on technological advancements but also on the collective choices we make as a society to shape its development for the better.

The Feature Story Writer is a Second Year Student at Chuka University pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Studies

ENDING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

STORY By ORAYO JUNE DEZINAVEL

To stop violence against women, a multifaceted approach is needed, including prioritizing prevention by addressing root causes like gender inequality and violence, strengthening legal frameworks and justice systems, and supporting survivors and their families.
When a woman shares her story of violence, it is the first step in breaking the cycle of abuse.|FILE

When a woman shares her story of violence, she takes the first step to breaking the cycle of abuse.

It is upon all of us to give her the safe space she needs to speak up and be heard.

It is important to remember that when discussing cases of sexual violence, a victim’s sobriety, clothes, and sexuality are irrelevant.

Survivors of violence are speaking out more than ever before, and everyone has a role to play to ensure they can have justice.

On November 25, a powerful march took place in Nairobi, calling for an end to femicide and gender-based violence. The event, which brought together hundreds of individuals from various backgrounds, aimed to raise awareness about the alarming rise in violence against women in Kenya. Organized by a coalition of women’s rights groups, the march was held in recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, marking a global effort to combat violence and discrimination faced by women and girls.

The protesters, including activists, survivors, and concerned citizens, gathered in a central location before marching through the streets of Nairobi. They carried signposts and banners demanding justice, with messages such as “End femicide now” and “Justice for women.” These slogans echoed the growing frustration over the persistent rates of gender-based violence, including the rising number of femicides, or killings of women because of their gender.

As the march moved through the city, speakers highlighted the systemic nature of gender-based violence, calling for stronger laws and better enforcement mechanisms to protect women. Many activists emphasized the importance of changing societal attitudes that often perpetuate violence and discrimination. 

Personal testimonies from survivors added an emotional weight to the demonstration, reminding the crowd of the real, lived experiences of those affected by femicide and abuse.

The march culminated in a rally at a central park, where several prominent activists delivered impassioned speeches. They urged the government to prioritize the safety and rights of women by addressing the root causes of violence, improving support systems for survivors, and strengthening legal frameworks to hold perpetrators accountable. The event also underscored the need for comprehensive educational programs to challenge harmful gender norms and foster a culture of respect for women.

This demonstration was not only a call for justice but also a solemn reminder of the lives lost to gender-based violence. For many, it served as both a protest and a memorial, honoring those who had died while pushing for a future free from such violence. The march sparked wider conversations across the country about the need for urgent action to address the ongoing crisis.

In the days following the march, the calls for justice and reform continued to reverberate through Kenyan society, with activists vowing to maintain pressure on both the government and the public. The event served as a crucial reminder that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done in the fight for gender equality and the protection of women’s rights.

The Feature Story Writer is a Second Year Student at Chuka University pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Studies
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