But behind the laughter and friendships lies a tougher reality. For comrades, university is not just about lectures and exams, it is about survival. Each day brings new challenges, from the struggle to pay school fees and secure basic resources, to the emotional weight of loneliness and peer pressure. 

Some students are denied access to classes because they have not cleared their balances, while others wrestle with the fear of being left behind academically. The pressure to fit in often pushes comrades into risky choices, including drug abuse, while the uncertainty of life after graduation hangs over them like a sword.

The first and most pressing challenge is lack of resources. Books, laptops, and internet access are essential for modern learning, but not every comrade can afford them. Some rely on outdated materials or borrow from friends, while others spend hours queuing at the library for limited resources. The digital divide is stark, leaving many students disadvantaged in a system that increasingly demands technological skills.

The issue of school fees makes life even harder. Students who fail to clear their balances are often denied access to classes, libraries, or even exam halls. The humiliation of being sent away from campus because of unpaid fees is a painful reality for many. It is a reminder that education, though celebrated as a right, remains a privilege for those who can afford it.

Beyond financial barriers, comrades grapple with loneliness. Moving away from home into unfamiliar environments can be isolating. Hostels may be crowded, but the emotional emptiness is real. Some students struggle to form meaningful connections, and the absence of strong support systems leaves them vulnerable to depression and anxiety.

The social environment of campus brings its own pressures. Peer pressure shows up in many forms; partying, relationships, fashion, and other lifestyle choices. The desire to fit in often pushes students into risky behaviors, including drugs and substance abuses. For some, drugs become an escape from stress and hardship, but they also lead to addiction, poor academic performance, and shattered dreams.

Another silent burden is the fear of being left behind. In a competitive academic environment, students constantly compare themselves with peers. Missing classes due to financial or personal struggles creates anxiety about falling behind academically. This fear is compounded by the looming reality of unemployment. 

Even after years of sacrifice, many graduates face a job market that is saturated and unforgiving. The thought of struggling through university only to remain jobless weighs heavily on comrades’ minds.

Despite these challenges, comrades continue to push forward. They hustle, they adapt, and they support one another in ways that outsiders rarely see. Their resilience is remarkable, but it should not mask the systemic issues that make university life so difficult.

Campus life is full of challenges, but it is also full of promise. The struggles of comrades whether it is lack of resources, unpaid fees, loneliness, peer pressure, or the fear of unemployment tell the story of a generation fighting to rise above obstacles. These young people are not just students; they are future leaders, innovators, and builders of the nation. Their resilience shows that with the right support from universities, government, and society, they can turn hardship into strength. Investing in comrades today means investing in Kenya’s tomorrow, where education opens doors and hope lights the path to a brighter future.

When the rains fall, several parts of Nairobi quickly turn into rivers. Roads become impassable, public transport stalls, and businesses slow down. Areas such as Eastlands, South B, and informal settlements along riverbanks are among the hardest hit. 

For many young people who have recently moved to the city, the floods are a harsh introduction to the realities of urban living.

According to the Kenya Meteorological Department, extreme rainfall events in Kenya have become more frequent due to climate change. The situation is made worse by poor drainage systems, blocked waterways, and unplanned urban development. 

As the city continues to grow rapidly, infrastructure development has struggled to keep pace with the increasing population.

Urban planners argue that Nairobi’s flooding problem is not just about heavy rains but also about human activities. Buildings constructed on riparian land and waste dumped into drainage channels prevent water from flowing freely. During heavy rainfall, water quickly accumulates and floods residential areas and roads.

The impact is felt most by residents living in affordable housing areas, where many young professionals start their lives after university. These neighborhoods are often located in flood-prone zones because rent is relatively lower compared to other parts of the city. As a result, the same young people who come to Nairobi in search of opportunity sometimes find themselves exposed to environmental and health risks.

Flooding also disrupts economic activity. Workers arrive late or fail to report to work when roads become flooded, while small businesses suffer losses as customers stay away. For young entrepreneurs trying to establish themselves, such disruptions can be devastating.

Despite these challenges, Nairobi remains a magnet for ambitious graduates. The presence of government institutions, multinational companies, and innovation hubs continues to attract talent from across the country. The city still offers unmatched career prospects compared to many other regions.

However, experts believe urgent measures are needed to make the city safer and more resilient. The Nairobi City County Government has been urged to improve drainage systems, enforce urban planning regulations, and protect riparian land from illegal construction. Environmental experts also emphasize the need for better waste management to prevent blockage of drainage systems.

For Nairobi to maintain its reputation as the city of opportunity, addressing the issue of flooding will be critical. Without effective planning and climate adaptation strategies, the dreams that bring thousands of graduates to the capital city each year risk being washed away by the rising waters.

As the rains continue to test the city’s infrastructure, the question remains whether Nairobi can balance its promise of opportunity with the safety and resilience that its residents deserve.

Last weekend, Kevin Sigei, a second year engineering student, was stabbed to death by his girlfriend at the hostel. Reports say they had had an argument which made him assault Claire. For self defense, she ended up taking his life. Claire, a second year student, went on and committed suicide to escape guilt and had mentioned in the letter that she had let her mother down. 

Vandem, a third year student, also became a victim last year. Reports say he had managed to open doors for his girlfriend by investing in a business for the girl’s comfort. All these sacrifices were for a healthy relationship. He ended up taking his life after realizing the girl left him for a "better" person.

Having placed his life and future in the girl's hands, he could not take the pain. He tried counseling but the stress and depression made us lose him.

Is it the financial strain of maintaining relationships, the influence of peer pressure, or the desire for more than what one is given? These questions continue to emerge whenever such tragic incidents occur. In many university settings, relationships are increasingly shaped by expectations of financial support, social status and lifestyle. When these expectations are not met, frustration, jealousy and feelings of inadequacy may arise. 

For some students, the pressure to keep up with peers or to sustain a certain image within relationships can quietly build emotional tension that eventually turns destructive. Equally concerning is the emotional dependence that many students place on romantic relationships. University life is often a transitional phase where young people are still forming their identities and have coping mechanisms. When one partner becomes the centre of another’s hopes, happiness or future plans, the breakdown of that relationship can feel overwhelming. Without healthy coping strategies, rejection or conflict may quickly escalate into emotional distress, aggression or self-harm.

In response to the growing concerns over student wellbeing, the university has introduced several mental health initiatives aimed at supporting students. These include counselling services, mental health awareness programs and designated spaces where students can relax and relieve stress. An annual mental health forum also brings together professionals and students to discuss emotional wellbeing and coping strategies. These efforts represent an important step towards acknowledging that academic institutions must also safeguard the psychological health of their students.

However, the availability of these services raises an important question: do students actually seek help when they need it? Many male students, in particular, tend to suffer in silence due to societal expectations that they must appear strong and emotionally resilient. Yet depression, stress and emotional pain do not discriminate by gender. Both male and female students need safe spaces to express their struggles. It is therefore important for students to actively participate in these mental health forums, seek counselling when necessary and openly discuss the challenges they face before they escalate into irreversible tragedies.

Ultimately, the recent tragedies serve as a painful reminder that romantic relationships within universities should not become sources of fear, control or emotional destruction. Relationships are meant to provide companionship, support and growth, not pressure and suffering. When love becomes intertwined with insecurity, financial expectations or emotional dependency, it risks creating an environment where conflict escalates beyond control.

Addressing partner violence among students therefore requires a collective effort. Universities must continue strengthening counselling services and awareness programs, while students themselves must learn to cultivate healthy relationships built on communication, respect and personal independence. Friends, classmates and peers also play a crucial role in recognizing signs of emotional distress and encouraging those affected to seek professional help.

As institutions of higher learning, universities are expected to nurture not only intellectual development but also emotional maturity. Promoting conversations around mental health, conflict resolution and responsible relationships can help students navigate the complex social realities of campus life. By fostering a culture where seeking help is normalized rather than stigmatized, many of these tragic outcomes may be prevented.

For the students whose lives have been lost, their stories should not simply fade into statistics. Instead, they should serve as a call to reflection and change within the university community. If students, administrators and support systems work together to prioritize wellbeing, campuses can once again become spaces of learning, safety and hope rather than scenes of heartbreak and loss.

Across Kenya, universities and colleges produce thousands of graduates every year. While higher education continues to expand, the job market has not grown at the same pace. Youth unemployment remains one of the country’s most pressing challenges, leaving many qualified graduates searching for opportunities for months or even years after completing their studies.

For decades, education has been viewed as the most reliable pathway to success. Parents encourage their children to work hard in school with the belief that good grades and university degrees will lead to secure jobs and better living standards.

Although education remains extremely important, the modern job market has become more competitive and complex than ever before. One of the main challenges facing graduates today is the gap between what students learn in universities and what employers expect in the workplace. Many institutions emphasize theoretical knowledge, yet employers often prioritize practical skills and real-world experience. As a result, graduates may leave university with strong academic knowledge but limited exposure to the professional environment.

Employers today often look for individuals who demonstrate strong communication skills, teamwork, creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to solve problems. Digital literacy and adaptability have also become essential qualities in an increasingly technology-driven economy. Without these skills, many graduates struggle to compete in the job market.

Lack of work experience is another major barrier. Many entry-level positions require previous experience, creating a situation where graduates cannot secure employment because they lack job experience, yet they cannot gain experience because they are unable to find jobs.

This cycle leaves many young people frustrated and uncertain about their career paths. As a result, some graduates eventually pursue opportunities outside the fields they studied. Others turn to entrepreneurship, freelance work, or small businesses as alternative ways to earn a living. 

The rise of digital platforms and innovation has created new possibilities for graduates willing to explore different career paths. Despite these challenges, education continues to play a crucial role in personal development and national progress. It equips individuals with knowledge, critical thinking skills, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the society. 

However, education systems must continue evolving to better prepare students for the realities of the modern workforce.

Strengthening internship programs, practical training, and partnerships between universities and industries could help bridge the gap between education and employment. Encouraging creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship may also empower graduates to create opportunities for themselves rather than relying entirely on formal employment.

As thousands of graduates continue entering the job market every year, addressing the disconnect between education and employment becomes increasingly important. By equipping students with both academic knowledge and practical skills, the promise that education holds for a better future can become more achievable for many young people.

Social media, entertainment apps, and constant notifications have replaced thoughtful engagement with real news, leaving students reliant on headlines and trending posts rather than full stories. The reasons for this shift are many.

Social media delivers news instantly, but rarely encourages deep reading or analysis. Students skim headlines, watch short video clips, and share stories without fully understanding them. One second-year student admits, “I know I should read newspapers, but by the time I finish scrolling through feeds, I’ve already lost focus. It feels faster to get snippets online.”

Coupled with busy university schedules , lectures, assignments, and part-time work , long-form reading often feels like a luxury few can afford. Smartphones and streaming services compete heavily for attention, leaving newspapers and magazines on the margins.

The consequences extend beyond personal habits. Newspapers and magazines have long been essential training tools for journalists, teaching structure, sourcing, investigative techniques, and editorial judgment.

Without regular engagement, students risk graduating with theory but limited practical insight into reporting. A senior lecturer in communication observes, “Students can write essays on media ethics, but when asked about current events, many struggle to provide details beyond what they saw online. Reading habits are not cultivated; they are assumed.” 

The lack of exposure threatens not only skills but also professional curiosity and responsibility.

Addressing this challenge requires action from both students and institutions. Universities could integrate structured news-reading programs, assign weekly newspaper analyses, or organize discussions based on current features.

Campus libraries and digital subscriptions should be more accessible, while professors encourage engagement with professional journalists’ work. Rebuilding this habit strengthens not only technical skills but also critical thinking, awareness of societal debates, and appreciation for the responsibilities journalists carry. As one final-year student reflects, “If we don’t read, how can we expect to report properly? We’d be writing without knowing.”

Reading the news may feel old-fashioned in a digital era, but its value remains essential for aspiring journalists. To report responsibly, students must first learn to observe, analyze, and understand the world around them. Cultivating the habit of reading newspapers and magazines is more than academic. It is professional, ethical, and crucial for the future of journalism in Kenya.

Universities, lecturers, and students must work together to ensure that the next generation of reporters is not only well-trained but also well-informed, bridging the gap between the classroom, the newsroom, and society at large.

While public conversations celebrate resilience and the culture of “hustling,” the reality on the ground is harsher: ambition is alive, but support systems are weakening. Students describe campus life not as a balance between study and social life, but as a daily negotiation between survival and dignity. “You learn to stretch everything; food, time, even hope,” says one second-year student.

“Some days you attend classes hungry, not because you want to, but because you have to”, a finalist speaks of the pressure to appear stable despite mounting challenges. “You don’t want lecturers or classmates to see you struggling. So you smile and keep going.” Behind the smiles, anxiety over rent, tuition and basic needs quietly erodes concentration, participation and mental well-being. Many endure in silence, afraid that admitting hardship may invite stigma rather than support.

A secondary school board chairman with years of experience in education leadership argues that the crisis extends beyond individual households. Rapid university expansion and rising enrolment have outpaced the financial systems meant to sustain them. The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), established to widen access to higher education, now faces mounting pressure. Some students receive approximately KSh 35,000 annually an amount that barely covers rent, food and essential materials.

Combined with declining parental contributions and uneven bursary distribution, the strain is visible in overcrowded housing, poor nutrition and heightened vulnerability. “When funding systems weaken,” he warns, “student dreams are not just delayed they are dimmed.”

Addressing this reality requires more than sympathy. HELB allocations must reflect current economic conditions so students can complete their studies and repay loans after employment. Supporting students to graduation is not generosity; it is sound financial logic. 

Alternative financing models , including partnerships between financial institutions and universities could ease pressure on State funding. At the same time, bursary funds managed across various offices must be consolidated and distributed transparently to ensure equity and accountability. When financial support is predictable and fair, students can focus on learning rather than mere survival.

Expanding enrolment without strengthening support structures risks producing graduates burdened not only by debt but by avoidable hardship. Students continue to attend lectures, submit assignments and hold tightly to their aspirations despite immense strain. Their resilience is admirable, but resilience alone cannot sustain a national education system. If education remains the backbone of development, then funding it sustainably is not optional , it is essential. The question is no longer whether students are strong enough to endure hardship, but whether we are willing to build systems strong enough to support them.

The event, held at the Embu ASK Showground Njukiri  has attracted exhibitors from across the country, ranging from agricultural institutions and seed companies to livestock breeders and technology firms eager to demonstrate solutions aimed at improving farm productivity.

The Chairman of the Agricultural Society of Kenya Embu branch, Martin Mutwiri, said this year’s show has recorded remarkable growth compared to last year, both in the number of exhibitors and the diversity of technologies on display.

Mutwiri noted that the increased participation reflects the growing interest among farmers in adopting modern farming practices to improve yields and strengthen food security in the region.

He urged farmers from Embu and neighboring counties to attend the show in large numbers and take advantage of the learning opportunities available, emphasizing that the exhibition offers practical knowledge that can transform agricultural productivity.

“Farmers should make time to visit the stands, interact with experts and learn new farming techniques that can help them increase production and manage challenges such as climate change,” Mutwiri said.

The chairperson further highlighted that the show provides a unique platform where farmers can directly engage with innovators, researchers and agribusiness players who are developing solutions tailored to the needs of local farmers.

Meanwhile, Embu County Commissioner Moses Wanyonyi assured residents and visitors that security has been significantly enhanced to guarantee a safe and successful event. Wanyonyi said security agencies have put in place adequate measures within and around the showground to ensure smooth operations throughout the exhibition period.

12.3.2026

Mbaika/Nanny 

S-4000

M-8000

L-10000

Nthenge/Buck

S-4000

M-11000

L-15000

My head was full of regrets. Every time voices reminded me of the opportunities I let go and the doors I never opened. Resistance kept me from letting go of the past even if it dragged me into pain.

A moment came when I had to question whether tomorrow was worth living. Yet the very moment I was surrounded by pain, my eyes tried opening and I was starting to see small sparks of reinvention, moments where I tried and tried again. Reinvention became a slow decision to try again in different ways. My suffering became a path where resilience followed, teaching me that storms don't just destroy they also tell who we are.  

As a student, I tried to reinvent myself but no matter how hard I tried, regrets never stopped knocking at my door. I kept on thinking of the chances that I let slip away, the scholarships I never applied for, the friendships that were going to be beneficial to me and I didn't nurture, reminded me of the moments that I chose to remain silent when I should have open up. 

Now regrets became heavy and I had questions that became difficult to answer. Regret reminded me of the times I hesitated when I should have acted and change something. Regret has now become a shadow that follows me even if I try to focus and walk forward. It whispers and reminds me of the things I could have done differently. But despite all the challenges that are pulled by regret, it also acts as a teacher. It showed me the cost of hesitation, the pain experienced by missing good opportunities, and also the urge of action before it is too late. 

In addition, regrets also showed me the essence of time, how time should not go to waste and I was able to understand how fragile time is. Therefore, the truth remains, suffering is not only about what happens to me but also about what I fail to accomplish for the better me.  

If resistance is loud, regret is therefore quiet. It asks haunting questions like, what if I tried harder? What if I had spoken up? What if I had chosen differently? But then regret became my companion during sleepless nights. Choices replayed in my mind wandering how different things might have been if I had dared to step out, but that was never the end of life. Regret had shown me the way as well as acting as a teacher. It showed me that resistance had cost me more and slowly I began to reinvent myself. 

Reinvention did not happen overnight, it began with small steps. I decided to push myself harder and I joined campus projects with determination. I even went further to volunteer for community work, discovering that the services gave me a sense of purpose I had never felt before. Opening up in class became my daily routine, my voice trembling at first, but growing stronger with each attempt I make.  

I reached out to people I had once ignored, building friendship that were good and of beneficial to me in my academic life, friendships that taught me the values of connection. Bringing closely good people to my life worked well in reshaping my life. My life needed a fresh start, I never hesitated to apply for opportunities I once feared, and though I failed at some, I discovered courage in the attempt. Therefore, reinvention became my new rhythm even if it wasn't a straight path. A path that is messy, uncertain, and full of moments where doubt creeps back in, despite all I must have the courage to keep reinventing. 

Even as I walked this new path of reinvention, I realized that change was rarely a straight line. There were days when doubt crept back in, when old fears whispered that I was not enough, that I would fail again, that past regrets defined me. But I learnt to meet these moments with patience and persistence, reminding myself that growth is measured not by perfection, but by the courage to try again. I began to set small, deliberate goals, speaking up in class, volunteering for leadership roles, applying for opportunities I would once have avoided. Each attempt was a victory in itself, whether it succeeded or failed, because it proved that I was no longer immobilized by resistance or haunted by regret. I discovered the power of reflection, taking time to celebrate small wins while learning from mistakes, and slowly, this practice reshaped my mindset. 

Friendships that I nurtured during this period became mirrors of resilience, showing me that support and connection amplify our strength. I also noticed that reinvention is contagious, inspiring even one peer to take a risk or face their fears felt like contributing to a larger wave of change. And though the road remains uncertain, messy, and full of challenges, I have come to understand that life’s storms do not just test us but they train us, revealing hidden strength and untapped potential. Reinvention is no longer a single moment but a rhythm of living, a conscious choice to keep moving forward, even when the future is unclear, because growth is found not in avoiding the storm, but in learning to dance in its rain. 

The storm of changes is still violent and I stand at its centre. I know what regret feels like, I know the comfort of resistance, and I have tested the power of reinvention. Yet the question remains, when the next door opens will I walk through it, or will I let it close once again?

Competency Based Education which was formally known as Competency Based Curriculum was officially changed on 25th April, 2025 on a National Conversation Forum on Education. “Curriculum is dynamic, and we have an opportunity to be able to review some of the aspects of our curriculum. I am happy to note that today is the day we are also officially launching the new brand from CBC to CBE," Julius Bitok, the PS for Education announced.

The Competency-Based Education (CBE) is an approach that allows students to advance based on their ability to master a skill or competency at their own pace regardless of environment. It is a student-centred approach focusing on mastering specific skills and knowledge at one's own pace, rather than relying on traditional, time-based, or age-graded classroom structures. It prioritizes real-world application, offering personalized learning, flexible pacing, and continuous assessment to ensure proficiency.

CBE is structured into distinct stages with specific focus. It is a 2-6-3-3 education system where Pre-Primary education emphasizes on interaction skills, Primary focuses on socialization skills, Junior schools focuses on exploration of interests and abilities while Senior schools prepares learners for careers through specialization. 

The CBE offers four pathways in senior school to match the students' unique talents and career goals. These pathways are designed to develop 21st century skills, preparing students for further education, work or entrepreneurship. The senior school curriculum has a total of 38 subjects with Pure Mathematics (STEM), English, Kiswahili and Physical Education being the core subjects.

 

Kenya is a developing country that is constantly looking for ways to grow. The implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum is one example of such development. The establishment of this framework arose from the need to update and enhance Kenya's education system. The education sector considered that it was equally important to promote knowledge application as it was to promote its acquisition. The implementation of CBE emphasized what learners were expected to do rather than what they were expected to know. For example, it is not enough that students know the process of growing a plant, instead, they could be tasked with sprouting a plant from a bean, which allows them the opportunity to apply the acquired knowledge to real-life scenarios.

CBE is majorly divided into three pathways;

i) STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)

This is ideal for students who are passionate about science, problem-solving, innovation, and technology. It focuses on Mathematics, Biology, Physics, Chemistry and Computer science. Its career pathways are; Medicine, Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture, Aviation, Pharmacy, Research Sciences, Data Analysis, Robotics, Environmental Science and Agricultural Technology.

ii) Social Sciences

It is ideal for students interested in society, economics, governance, business, and human behavior. It focuses on how the world works and how people communicate. It’s perfect for those interested in Law, Journalism, Business, or Languages as their career. Subjects taught are History and Government, Geography, Business Studies, Economics and Religious Education.

iii) Arts and Sports Sciences

This is ideal for creative students with talents in arts, music, sports or performance. For the first time, being a great footballer, musician, or artist is treated with the same academic respect as being an engineer.

Traditional education has long treated students much like items on a factory conveyor belt, moving them along from grade to grade based primarily on the amount of time they have spent in a classroom regardless of whether they have actually grasped the material. CBE tries to eliminate this practice by placing the student at the centre of their own learning journey. 

We should embrace this shift because it acknowledges a fundamental truth. Students learn at different rates and in different ways. Moving away from the theory approach is not just a trend, it is a necessary evolution to ensure that students are not left behind simply because they required a bit more time or a different method to truly internalize a difficult concept. By focusing on practical rather than seat time we confirm the student’s effort and intelligence in whatever he/she is interested in.

Beyond the mechanics of learning, CBE is vital because it aligns our educational outcomes with the realities of the modern, rapidly changing workforce. Employers today are not hiring based on how many years a candidate spent in a lecture hall but they are hiring based on what that candidate can actually demonstrate they can do.

We must also consider the psychological impact of this change. Traditional grading often creates an environment of anxiety, where a single bad test score can define a student's perceived intelligence and limit their academic trajectory. 

CBE replaces this high-stakes environment with a focus on continuous improvement and actionable, formative feedback. It transforms the role of the teacher from a mere lecturer to a coach or mentor. This partnership is far more effective at fostering a growth mindset. Instead of failing a course, a student simply continues working on the material until they hit the mark. This removes the stigma associated with needing extra time and helps students develop resilience. 

We therefore should embrace CBE system of education so as to help learners to focus on the field that they are really interested in and increase their chances of getting employed in the digital world.

Parents whisper about brighter tomorrows. Little brothers and sisters gaze up like heroes walked in. Whole neighborhoods bet

everything on school being the ticket out. But there's another side no one talks about. It's not in the glossy photos or the proud speeches. It hides in the dim glow of hostel lamps at midnight, in those solitary walks across empty quads, in the

hush when the day's chaos finally die down. It's the invisible load they shoulder alone, day after day.

This past weekend at Chuka University grief crashed in like a storm. Word spread in whispers, rippling through lecture halls and hostels. Phones lit up with texts that hit like punches. Friends huddled in shadows, voices low, eyes wide with "no, not them." Some just sat there, numb, replaying yesterday's hellos. 

The air felt thicker, emptier, even in rooms packed with people. And it's not just

Chuka. This pain echoes across campuses nationwide in hostels from coast to highlands, in universities big

and small. One loss after another, each one carving out the same raw questions, the same aching quiet. Different halls, different names, but the same hidden fights. It's a pattern that's breaking hearts, demanding we look closer. What sticks hardest are the what-ifs. Did we miss the signs, buried under small talk? Could one kind word, one real check-in, have shifted everything? How does someone in a sea of faces end up drowning alone?

From the outside, these students seem unbreakable. Up at dawn for lectures, notebooks stuffed in bags, hustling from class to class. They crack jokes over chapo, swap stories in the quad; life looks solid. But underneath? Battles raging out of sight.

Money woes hit like a brick wall. Fees pile up, meals stretch thin, what's meant for months vanishes in weeks. Hunger becomes a dull ache you push down, promising yourself "later." Social spots? Off limits without cash. Rent days loom like thunderheads, no rain in sight.Home calls twist the knife. Mom

asks, "How's school, mwanangu?" full of pride, blind to the storm. They can't help; they're barely holding on themselves. So you smile through the line, "All good," sparing them the weight.

Then, academics crush in. Failure isn't just a grade, it's the whole dream crumbling. Every test feels like judgment day, every slip a step towards nothing. No room to breathe, no mercy for the tired.

Loneliness sneaks up in crowds. You're surrounded, yet miles from anyone who gets you. First time away from home, support

networks feel like ghosts. No one to read your silences, to just 'know'. So you fake the grin, nod along, tell yourself to tough it out. Weakness? Nah, not here. Pain festers unseen.

Mental health talk still feels risky often brushed off as "just stressed." Silence isn't empty; it's a cage with no key.When it

does, the void screams. Half-finished chats hang in the air. We wonder what they felt in those last hours; did they hurt alone, unseen?

These aren't one-off tragedies. They are screams from the strain so many carry nationwide, every campus, every quiet corner. Education is a lifeline. Sure, but for too many, it's survival too. They walk into halls loaded down not just books, but family dreams, future fears, the terror of letting everyone down. We could concur that all they crave is simple humanity; safe corners to spill without shame.

Words that say struggle isn't failure. Help that sees the person, not the transcript. Recognition that every face holds untold stories. Because in every lecture hall, behind every smile, there's a weight that might be too much for one set of shoulders.

Marriage was not on his immediate horizon. but one evening his phone rang with a call that would change everything. On the line was his uncle, speaking with the authorities of Luo community traditions. "We have brought you a wife since you had refused to marry. So we have decided for you". These words were heavy when they fell on his ear like a stormy cloud blotting out the sun. 

Shock coursed through him. He paused before replying, "uncle, I cannot accept her. I want to be a priest. My calling is not for marriage".

A long silence followed. Then, his uncle’s voice rose, sharp with disbelieve anger. "Priesthood! You speak of priesthood after we have brought you a wife? Do you think you can shame us with such claims?" 

Otieno tried to steady his voice, "Uncle, I respect you, but my calling is to serve God. I cannot marry. I want to be a priest.” The uncle continued telling Otieno how he would whip him if he was there since a man must marry and build a home.

Otieno, still on the call sat fragile between tradition and conviction. This moment was terrifying yet clarifying. His uncle’s anger revealed the depth of cultural expectations. But it also strengthened his resolve. What Otieno could not understand was the fact that they had brought a wife for him and a five-year-old boy. 

What rang in his mind was "do they think I am not capable of having my own kids?" Hours turned into days and days into months when Otieno recorded the call from the uncle again. This time it was not about the marriage scenario again since for the past three months Otieno had been avoiding his uncle’s calls. This time round the uncle said to him “the wife I brought for you is expectant. “This was unbelievable until when the true blow came when he learned that the woman was not only expectant but also pregnant by his own cousin.

This was cruel. There was a man who had not set eyes on a woman, who had not been home for months, suddenly told he was not her husband and soon to be a father of two -yet the children were no his. 

The family attempt to solve his” problem” of bachelorhood had created a deeper problem; one that mocked the very tradition they sought to uphold. Otieno’s reaction was a mix of disbelief and bitter humor. “So, I am married to a woman I have never met, and she is carrying a child that is not mine,”

and you say this is to save me from shame?" His words carried both pain and irony exposing th absurdity of the arrangement. The situation turned the family on its head. 

Instead of securing a lineage scandal, trying to force Otieno into marriage they had given him a wife whose loyalty was already claimed elsewhere? All this was happening to Otieno just because he was an orphan. Yes, the mother was still alive but had no authority whatsoever. Coming from a family which lured traditional critics, the mother could not stand and say anything without being contradicted by the uncle who now stood as

the father and the head of the family. Talking to Otieno, he added that he left home because he saw it fit to change the way things were and to try to help the mother out and give her siblings a sustainable upbringing since he was the eldest in the family.

Before turning to say he would wish to become a priest, he was an artist who used to compose Luo songs; Ohangla. A talent he identified back in high school. He now thought that he could not

pursue such a dream because of the mounting pressure back home. 

The same family that had not given any support in his music journey now had added another unreasonable burden yet avoided important situations in his life. At first the wonder was about if indeed he wanted to be a priest as he had told the uncle, but it

seemed it was just a plot to tell them in another way he was not for a woman whom he had no interest in and any desires of any cost. 

He had hopes that the priesthood claims will push away the uncle into believing that he had made up his mind and had no intentions of marrying at all. It seems like all this was going to be in vain, since there was no way, the uncle was going to let this slide away and "ruin" his home. 

Otieno went on adding that what hurt him most was the fact that they did not only marry for him a wife but also made the wife get a child the so called “wife” whom he did not ask for nor had any desires for leave alone laying eyes upon her. 

The uncle even suggested for the two cousins to split responsibilities claiming that parental  responsibility is not carried by one person alone. Otieno found this unrealistic in the way that, the unborn child was not his neither was he for the one who was five years old. For Otieno, the irony deepened his conviction. "Uncle", he said’ voice steady despite the storm inside him. "This is not my path. I will not marry. I will serve God.”

The call was made during the commissioning of a KES 50.6 million state-of-the-art TVET skills hub at the University of Embu. Speaking at the event, Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research Dr. Beatrice  Inyangala underscored the urgent need to bridge the country’s widening technical skills gap.

“For many years, Kenya has struggled with a significant shortage of practical technical skills. This deficiency within our institutions of higher learning has made it challenging for graduates to compete effectively in the job market. Universities must seek partners who can bring in transformative projects that empower students not just to secure jobs, but to create their own opportunities,” she said.

Dr. Inyangala reiterated the government’s resolve to align university education with the realities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. She noted that institutions prioritizing technical and entrepreneurial training will continue receiving strong policy and financial backing.

“The job market is shifting rapidly due to innovations such as blockchain and virtual reality. Students must therefore move beyond theoretical learning and embrace critical thinking, creativity, and entrepreneurship. The government is strengthening industry partnerships and alumni engagement to ease graduates’ transition into employment,” she added.

She applauded the M-Pesa Foundation for financing the facility, describing the investment as a major boost to national development goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development agenda.

“This project aligns with our national priorities and advances SDG 4 by promoting inclusive, quality education that nurtures a skilled and future-ready workforce. It ensures that students leave university fully prepared to tackle the demands of today’s economy,” Dr. Inyangala noted.

Representing the foundation, trustee Patricia Ithau pointed to the long-standing disconnect between academic training and labor market demands, which has left many graduates unemployed for years.

“For too long, we have witnessed graduates remain jobless long after completing their studies. The gap between what is taught and what the market requires is evident. That is why the M-Pesa Foundation has partnered with the Ministry of Higher Education to close this gap,” she said.

Ithau revealed that the foundation plans to replicate the initiative nationwide. "We intend to move across all counties, collaborating with higher learning institutions to equip students with the resources and skills they need. Our goal is to enable graduates to become entrepreneurs, reducing overreliance on formal employment and encouraging self-employment,” she added.

Embu Vice Chancellor Prof.  Daniel Mugendi Njiru welcomed the partnership, thanking both the Ministry and the foundation for their commitment to strengthening technical education. “We appreciate the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing technical competencies in our universities. With this support, our graduates will leave here ready to employ themselves because they possess the skills necessary to generate their own income,” he said.

Professor Mugendi described the facility as a transformative milestone for the university, which has previously grappled with limited infrastructure for technical programs."I sincerely thank the M-Pesa Foundation for this generous investment. The Sh 50.6 million ultra-modern TVET hub marks a turning point in our efforts to close the technical skills gap that has persisted,” he said.

The center is projected to train more than 1,300 students annually, equipping them not only with practical expertise but also with starter toolkits to launch their ventures immediately after graduation.

“We are targeting over 1,300 trainees in this facility. Upon completing their courses, they will receive tools of trade to help them establish their own businesses without waiting for formal employment,” Professor Mugendi revealed.

Constructed over a one-year period, the new hub addresses critical infrastructure shortfalls at the university. It houses fully equipped workshops for phone and computer repair, a dedicated barbershop training unit, and modern spaces for hairdressing and massage therapy.

Serving the university’s 9,410 students, the center delivers hands-on, market-oriented training designed to produce graduates who are skilled, innovative, and ready to thrive in a competitive economy.

Sometimes it might sound like a recipe for stability; no protests ,no riots and no big debates in parliament and also in grassroot levels, yet beneath the reality the absence of opposition often reveals a fragile system ,one that risks stagnation ,dictatorship and disconnection from the people it claims to serve.  

On a morning in the silent capital of a country, the sun rises over the capital. Streets are orderly, banners of the ruling party hang, and the national anthem echoes from loudspeakers. Citizens walk briskly to work, heads down, voices hushed.

There are no campaign posters, no rallies, but inside every seat belongs to the same party; every vote is anonymous; every law passes without question. This type of system shows the real illusion of harmony ,the ruling authority enjoys uninterrupted control where laws are passed swiftly ,policies are implemented without resistance and leaders project an image of unity.

Citizens may even feel a sense of order where there are no noisy campaigns ,no bitter rivalries ,no uncertainty about who governs tomorrow. But the reality is harmony without opposition is often an illusion ,without checks and balances ,power consolidates in the hands of a few ,decisions are made behind closed doors and citizens lose the ability to influence their future. The absence of opposition does not mean the absence of disagreement. It only means disagreement is suppressed. 

The reality has a human cost, imagine being a citizen in a country where there is no opposition, you may disagree with a new tax, a restrictive law or foreign policy decision. Where do you go? Who represents your voice? Because media is censored and journalists risk imprisonment for criticism and keeping those in power accountable, forcing even radio stations to play only government approved content, television stations only invite government officials to debate and interviewers are restricted from asking questions that may criticize some things the government is not doing correctly. 

The dailies and magazines are forced to only write about the good sides of the government and even threatened not to talk ill or write on contrary to the government. If they keep the ruling class accountable, they risk revocation of the license and being banned from operating. 

There is this one time a 22-year-old student told me behind closed doors, “I want to start a podcast, I want to talk about unemployment, corruption, climate change” but he told me that his uncle warned him and told him “Don’t be clever. Be quiet.” So that’s why Brian records music and love songs. Nothing political because of the fear instilled by those in power, the fear of being arrested and jailed without trial since there is no opposition. 

In such a country, even resistance exists, for example a poet writes verses that hint at injustice ,a teacher assigns banned books in secret to students and maybe a farmer refuses to join the ruling party's cooperative. These acts are small but powerful. They remind us that opposition is not just a political but it is also personal, cultural and spiritual in some ways.

These practical examples are real evidence that shows how people are feeling in countries where there is no opposition. But also, without opposition a country achieves success, for example roads are paved and smooth, schools are built and hospitals are fully equipped with medicine and beds and doctors don’t go on strike. 

Foreign investors praise the country's stability but also the cost is high, corruption is rampant, public funds vanish without scrutiny, citizens fear speaking out due to fear of abduction and innovation is stifled. Even in countries without in opposition resistance whispers in that you find a teacher slips a forbidden book to student, a journalist writes anonymously online, a citizen dares to question in private. These whispers remind us that opposition is not a luxury, but it is a necessity. 

There is this one time I talked to a guy called Ayub asking him why he changed his writing style in terms of topics in his newspaper but Ayub told me, “I used to write columns. I wrote about potholes , about hospitals, but one day, I wrote about a minister who misused funds. The next morning ,my newspaper was shut down and told I am free to write but only praise. Now I write travel brochures. I describe mountains and rivers but inside I miss writing the truth". This made me Imagine of a country where a citizen is never free to express his/her opinion ,write on contrary to the government. This question still lingers in my mind every day. This has made me reflect on so many issues and also have to ask different people their opinions including students in Universities.

There was a time I interacted with a foreign student who visited our country and became a little curious because I saw him a little bit surprised with how things are run in our country. I asked him how were things operating in his county in terms of opposition. But Job told me, “I want to be a lawyer, but the law is not about justice. It is about obedience. We study cases where the government always win. There is no defense, no appeal. Sometimes I dream of arguing in court, standing against the State, proving them wrong, but that dream is dangerous, My professor told me in that country, lawyers defend the government, not the people,”.

This testimony from Job made me put myself in that situation and reflect even how teachers some times feel during lectures when students become courageous enough to ask tough questions that may challenge the professors and teachers in such countries. 

A country without opposition seems orderly, peaceful, united but the silence hides fear. Stability masks fragility and unity conceals repression. Opposition is not chaos, it is balance.

Speaking at Nyuani Primary School in Mutonguni Ward, Kitui West, Stella Mengele  regretted that perpetrators of gender based violence collude with clan elders to defeat justice for victims of GBV. "Children get defiled and since their parents are poor,  they are given cows. The clan elders come to decide the cases. Some of our residents are not exposed.  They need someone to run to for assistance", said the founder of Stella Mengele Foundation,  an NGO.

According to the renowned Kamba Gospel artist,  all locals need is only one lawyer to be hired by county gender department for the purposes of handling cases of serious gender violations. 

While acknowledging the challenges ahead, she said residents need to be capacity built on how to report gender based violence cases including processing them until justice is served.

A report by Kenya National Police cited on the Unesco website shows the grim reality of gender based violence cases in Kenya. The study revealed that 40% of women in Kenya have experienced emotional,  physical or psychological intimate partner violence. 30% of women aged between 15-49 have experienced physical violence. 

To worsen the situation,  social and cultural norms aid these injustices as some people believe wives should be beaten under certain circumstances. 

"30% of women and 19% of men believe a husband is justified in beating his wife under certain circumstances", the report reads in part.

During the Presidency of Uhuru Kenyatta, Margaret Kenyatta transformed what had largely been a ceremonial space into a structured platform for national advocacy. Through the Beyond Zero Campaign, she championed maternal and child health, mobilizing both public and private sector support. Her initiative complemented government efforts such as the Linda Mama program under the national health agenda, expanding awareness about safe motherhood and access to healthcare facilities.

What distinguished her tenure was visibility combined with measurable engagement. She ran marathons to raise funds, partnered with county governments, and consistently maintained focus on healthcare inequalities. Beyond maternal health, she also sparked national conversation around the often-overlooked welfare of the boy child, arguing that empowerment should be balanced and inclusive. In doing so, she broadened the social agenda beyond traditional expectations.

In comparison, earlier First Ladies such as Mama Ngina Kenyatta during the era of President Jomo Kenyatta symbolized unity in a fragile post-independence state but did not operate structured national campaigns. 

First Lady Lena Moi, alongside President Daniel arap Moi, maintained a low public profile consistent with the political culture of that period. Their roles were largely ceremonial, reflecting the norms of their time rather than proactive advocacy.

The tenure of Lucy Kibaki during Mwai Kibaki brought visibility and personality, but without a long-term flagship social program comparable in scale to Beyond Zero. Her presence was felt in public discourse, yet it did not crystallize into a singular nationwide initiative that defined her legacy.

Currently, Rachel Ruto, spouse of current President William Ruto, has emphasized faith-based values, women empowerment, and community outreach. However, critics argue that her initiatives have not yet achieved the same scale, national mobilization, or measurable policy alignment that characterized Margaret Kenyatta’s tenure. Supporters, on the other hand, contend that impact must be assessed over time and within the context of prevailing economic realities.

The comparison raises a broader question: Should the effectiveness of a First Lady be measured by visibility, structured programs, policy influence, or public perception? Margaret Kenyatta’s era set a precedent where the Office of the First Lady appeared institutionalized, strategic, and results-oriented. This has inevitably raised public expectations for those who came before and those who follow.

Yet it is also important to recognize that each First Lady operates within a different political climate, economic capacity, and personal philosophy. What appears as underperformance may, in some cases, reflect differing priorities or quieter forms of engagement.

Even so, in Kenya’s evolving political culture, citizens increasingly expect measurable social contribution from the First Lady’s office. The standard has shifted from symbolism to structured impact. Whether future First Ladies will build upon, redefine, or surpass the benchmark set during Margaret Kenyatta’s tenure remains a question that time and performance  will answer.

Last week witnessed increased rainfall records given most parts of Kitui county received heavy downpour.  "A number of stations recorded very heavy rainfall exceeding 70mm in 24 hours on 3rd in Endau and Mui and again in Endau in 4th", said  Director Daniel Mbithi. 

The other weather conditions like temperature and wind remain unchanged this week since the maximum temperature will range between 24°C and 32°C while the minimum temperature range is expected to vary from 16°C to 22°C.

Strong winds are expected to blow from north eastern side to south eastern side of the county of Kitui at a speed of 25knots [12.86m/s].

The International media such as Al Jazeera and the BBC devoted large sections of their coverage to tell the story about the former Zambia President's worsening health,  death and divided legacy. Lungu had been receiving treatment for cancer at Mediclinic Medforum Hospital in Pretoria. His daughter, Tasila Lungu, broke the news to the public, saying, “My father passed away peacefully, but our hearts are shattered. We are trying to come to terms with the loss of a man who gave so much to his family and country.”

Yet, even as they mourned, the family found themselves entangled in legal battles and political tensions that would follow them for months.

For the Lungu family, the wish was simple: a quiet farewell. They had planned a private burial in Johannesburg, hoping to grieve away from the glare of politics. “We just wanted to say goodbye in peace,” said a family member, requesting anonymity.

The Zambian government, however, insisted that Lungu, as a former president, be honoured with a state funeral in Lusaka. Such ceremonies are customary for Zambian leaders since independence from the British in 1964.

The disagreement reached the courts. A High Court in Pretoria halted the private burial just hours before it was to begin. The court ruled that Lungu’s body be repatriated to Zambia for burial with state honours. At the reading of the judgment, his sister, Bertha Lungu, was seen in tears, a moment that captured the human toll of political disputes.

Even before Lungu’s death, his family had been navigating investigations that brought their private lives into public view. Authorities in Zambia examined properties, vehicles, and other assets believed to be linked to unexplained wealth acquired during his presidency.

His son, Dalitso Lungu, was arrested in 2023 alongside his wife after authorities said they had uncovered dozens of vehicles and other assets suspected to be proceeds of crime. A court later ordered him to surrender property and vehicles worth millions of dollars.

The former first lady, Esther Lungu, faced charges related to properties believed to be illicitly acquired. Even Tasila, who had publicly shared her father’s death, was later charged with money laundering.

“The accusations are politically motivated,” said a Patriotic Front party official. “Our family is being targeted even in mourning.”

Lungu’s political life was marked by both achievements and fierce rivalries. Defeated in the 2021 elections by Hakainde Hichilema of the United Party for National Development, the tension between the two men and their supporters has lingered, shaping Zambia’s political landscape.

Even after leaving office, the legal challenges facing his family have been influenced by the lingering shadow of political rivalry. The grief of losing a father and husband is intertwined with the stress of legal proceedings, creating a complex emotional landscape for the family.

Behind court rulings, asset seizures, and public debates is a family trying to heal. For the Lungu family, Edgar Lungu’s death did not bring closure; it opened a chapter of public scrutiny and national debate.

“Every time we try to grieve, there is a court case or a headline reminding us of his legacy in a way we cannot control,” said another family member.

For Zambia, the events highlight how the consequences of leadership and allegations of corruption can extend far beyond a president’s term. Decisions made in power can shape families, institutions, and national memory for years.

Edgar Lungu’s story is a reminder that leadership carries responsibilities, and that the human cost of politics often stretches beyond office  sometimes into the lives of those left behind.

The case pits the petitioner, Newton Kariuki Ndwiga, against the declared winner of the November 27, 2025 by-election, Leo Wa Muthende Njeru, with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission also named as a respondent in the proceedings.

The election dispute is being heard by Justice Richard Mwongo at the Embu High Court, after being assigned as an election court to determine the validity of the by-election results. By law, election petitions must be heard and concluded within six months. 

During the opening remarks, Kariuki’s legal team, led by Ndegwa Njiru, told the court that the petition seeks to nullify the by-election, arguing that the electoral process failed to meet constitutional standards of transparency, accountability, and adherence to the law.

The petitioner claims that several irregularities occurred during the voting process, including discrepancies between the number of voters who cast ballots and the number of registered voters in some polling stations.

Kariuki, who took the witness stand to testify in support of his petition, cited Ngagara Primary School and Ngiiri Polling Station as examples where the number of votes allegedly exceeded the registered voter turnout.

He told the court that such discrepancies raise serious questions about the integrity of the election and form part of the grounds upon which the results should be invalidated.

Kariuki further requested the court to order a forensic examination of the KIEMS kits, arguing that the devices should be scrutinized to determine whether all voters who cast ballots were properly identified and cleared through the biometric system.

In addition, he asked the court to order a recount of the votes cast during the by-election to verify whether the final tally accurately reflected the will of the electorate.

The petitioner also alleged irregular voting in Mwondu Polling Station, claiming that some individuals who cast ballots there were registered voters from counties outside Embu County.

Kariuki further told the court that violence was reported in several polling stations, including Kaugu Polling Station, which he claimed affected his supporters during the voting exercise.

“Violence was widespread across polling stations in Mbeere North and it was being instigated by State officers. This intimidated my supporters, and the fourth respondent became the beneficiary of that violence,” Kariuki told the court.

He also alleged that voter bribery occurred in multiple polling stations across the constituency, arguing that such acts compromised the credibility and fairness of the election. Among the polling stations Kariuki asked the court to scrutinize are Itiira, Ishiara, Kune, Kanyuambora, Maragu, Karwari, Kiathambu, and Ndutori Primary Schools, saying a detailed examination would help determine whether the number of votes cast matched the number of registered voters.

However, the defence team representing Wa Muthende, led by Dr.

Adrian Kamotho, dismissed the claims and told the court that the election was conducted fairly, transparently, and in full compliance with the law.

Lawyer Charles Mwongela, representing the electoral commission, also defended the process, stating that the commission conducted the election in strict adherence to the Constitution and electoral laws, adding that the petition seeks to overturn the legitimate will of the people.

The court proceedings come months after another petition challenging the same election was dismissed for failure to deposit the legally required security for costs, leaving Kariuki’s case as the main active petition questioning the legitimacy of the by-election outcome.

The hearing is expected to proceed on a day-to-day basis , with the court set to hear testimonies from witnesses, examine electoral materials, and determine whether the allegations raised meet the legal threshold to nullify the Mbeere North by-election.

In his address, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna announced plans to work with Ukambani leaders as the country prepares for 2027 General elections. Sifuna added that since the Ukambani region stood with late ODM leader Raila Odinga in his presidential ambitions, it was time to reciprocate to the voting bloc. "Who said Kambas are enemies just because Raila is gone? We shall uphold the unity that existed for years with Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and the entire Ukambani community ", said Hon Sifuna.

The senator's foray in the Lower Eastern Region comes in the midst of fallout with the Oburu Oginga faction of ODM party which is firmly in the broad-based government. 

Embakasi MP Babu Owino who accompanied Sifuna team urged youth to vote for development-oriented leaders next year. He noted that the youth are a fresh energy in the political landscape and they should be supported through mentorship and education in order to be fully equipped for future opportunities. 

Other political leaders who accompanied the Linda Mwananchi caravan were Hamisi MP Charles Gumini and Makueni MCAs.