By DAN MIDIMO 

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student,  Chuka University 

For many young people, the journey to university is supported by parents who provide financial assistance, emotional encouragement and guidance through the challenges of academic life.

However, for thousands of orphaned students across Kenya, the road to higher education is far more complicated. Without parental support, these students often rely on determination, scholarships, bursaries and small hustles simply to remain in school.

Their stories rarely make headlines, yet they represent one of the most powerful examples of resilience within the country’s
education system. Across universities and colleges in Kenya, orphaned students face difficulties that many of their peers may never fully understand. Tuition fees, accommodation costs, food, learning materials and transport are everyday necessities that require money. For students with parents, these needs are often supported by families. But for orphans, meeting such basic requirements can become a daily struggle. Some must constantly search for financial assistance from wellIwishers, community organizations or county bursaries, while others depend on government support programs that may not always arrive on time.

In recent years, the rising cost of living has made the situation even more challenging. Food prices, rent and transport costs have increased significantly in many parts of the country. As a result, some orphaned students are forced to reduce their daily expenses by skipping meals, sharing overcrowded rooms or delaying the purchase of academic materials. These sacrifices, though
painful, are often made in order to remain focused on the ultimate goal of completing their education.

Despite these hardships, many orphaned students demonstrate remarkable determination. Some take up part-time jobs after lectures, working in small businesses, cyber cafés or local shops.

Others sell clothes, snacks or household items within campuses to earn a little income. With the growth of digital technology, a number of students have also turned to online opportunities such as freelance writing, graphic design or digital marketing. These activities may not generate large
amounts of money, but they provide just enough support to keep their academic dreams alive.

Education experts argue that students who grow up without parental support often develop strong resilience and independence. Having experienced hardship from an early age, many learn to manage responsibilities and challenges more quickly than their peers.

 This resilience becomes an important asset in both academic and professional life. In classrooms across the country, orphaned
students are frequently among the most determined learners, motivated by the desire to change their circumstances and build a better future.

However, determination alone cannot solve every challenge. Many orphaned students still struggle with emotional stress and uncertainty about their future. Without parents to provide advice or
reassurance, some must navigate university life largely on their own. Mentorship programs, counselling services and supportive peer networks therefore play an important role in helping vulnerable students remain mentally strong throughout their academic journeys.

Stakeholders in the education sector continue to call for stronger support systems for vulnerable learners. Expanding scholarship opportunities, increasing county bursaries and strengthening financial aid programs could significantly reduce the burden faced by orphaned students.

 
Universities can also contribute by creating mentorship initiatives that connect vulnerable learners with supportive faculty members and successful alumni who understand their experiences.

Community organizations and charitable foundations have also played a crucial role in supporting orphaned learners. Through donations, sponsorship programs and mentorship initiatives, these
groups help bridge the gap left by limited resources. Many students who receive such assistance later express a strong desire to give back to society by supporting other vulnerable learners once they become financially stable.

Higher education remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty. For orphaned students, every lecture attended, assignment submitted and examination passed represents far more than academic progress. It symbolizes perseverance, courage and the refusal
to surrender to difficult circumstances. Their success stories demonstrate that with the right support, determination and opportunity, even the most vulnerable members of society can achieve extraordinary outcomes.

As Kenya continues to invest in education as a pathway to national development, it is important that the unique challenges faced by orphaned students are not overlooked. By strengthening support systems and expanding opportunities, the country can ensure that talent and ambition are not
wasted simply because a student lacks parental support. The resilience shown by orphaned learners serves as a powerful reminder that hope and determination can thrive even in the most difficult circumstances.

Ultimately, the story of orphaned students pursuing higher education is not only about struggle. It is also a story of courage, ambition and the unwavering belief that education can transform lives.

When given the opportunity and support they deserve, these students can become leaders,
innovators and professionals who contribute greatly to the development of the nation. Their journeys deserve recognition, encouragement and continued investment from society as a whole.

By COLLINS CHEGE MUIRURI

Second Year, Chuka University, Journalism and Mass Communication Degree

The next General Election is still some time away. But across Kenya, political activity already feels intense. Leaders are travelling from county to county, launching projects, attending fundraisers, inspecting roads, and speaking at public gatherings. Officially, these are development tours meant to check on progress and engage citizens. Yet many Kenyans are asking a different question: are these really development visits, or is the campaign season quietly starting early?

The line between governance and early campaigning is becoming harder to see.

In Kenyan politics, being visible matters. When leaders are constantly on the ground—opening markets, commissioning projects, or addressing residents—they remain present in the minds of voters. Large crowds gather. Supporters wear party colours. Speeches are delivered with energy and confidence.

While these visits are presented as part of official duty, the tone sometimes shifts. Leaders defend their records, respond to critics, or outline future promises. Even if the election period has not officially begun, the political message is often clear. Analysts say early positioning helps shape public opinion long before campaigns are legally declared. By the time the official season begins, alliances may already be formed and narratives already fixed.

Kenya has clear election timelines set by law. However, political activity does not always follow the calendar strictly. Supporters argue that leaders must move around the country to monitor projects and listen to citizens. Development work, they say, cannot stop because elections are approaching.But critics question whether constant political gatherings shift attention away from service delivery. When speeches dominate headlines more than results, doubts begin to grow. Are leaders focusing fully on solving economic challenges, or they are building political ground early?This question becomes more sensitive in a country where elections have, in the past, brought strong emotions and deep divisions.

Early campaigns can also create tension. Kenya has experienced political unrest before, and memories of past election-related conflicts remain fresh for many citizens. When political rhetoric becomes heated too early, fear can quietly spread.In recent months, there have been cases of confrontations during political events and sharp exchanges between rival camps. Even when violence does not erupt, strong words and public accusations can increase anxiety.

 Some Kenyans worry that constant political mobilisation may slowly raise temperatures long before the ballot is cast.For business owners, prolonged political competition may create uncertainty. For ordinary citizens, it can bring back memories of instability. The fear is not always visible, but it exists in conversations at markets, in matatus, and online.

Kenya is still dealing with serious economic issues—high cost of living, unemployment, and pressure on household incomes. Many citizens are more concerned about daily survival than political rivalry.

When early campaigns dominate public attention, some wonder whether urgent economic matters receive the focus they deserve. Investors also tend to observe political stability closely. Prolonged political tension can slow confidence and decision-making.

At the same time, politicians use economic hardship as part of their early messaging, promising reforms and solutions. The challenge is ensuring that these promises do not remain words repeated from rally to rally. Another concern is political fatigue. If campaigns begin too early and continue for years, citizens may grow tired. Repeated promises and constant rallies can reduce trust instead of building it. Kenyans want development they can see and feel—better roads, stable prices, accessible healthcare, job opportunities—not endless political debate.

There is nothing wrong with leaders visiting counties and inspecting projects. Accountability requires leaders to be present and engaged. However, when development language blends with campaign-style messaging, the distinction becomes blurred. Kenya now stands at a delicate moment. The country must balance active governance with responsible political conduct. Early campaigning, if not handled carefully, can increase tension and uncertainty. As the country moves closer to 2027, one important question remains: can leaders focus on unity and service delivery while political ambitions grow in the background?

For many Kenyans, the hope is simple, progress without fear, leadership without division, and politics that do not overshadow peace.

By GLORIA MUMO

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student,  Chuka University 

When doctors told Roy that his heart was failing, they did not just give him a diagnosis, they gave him a deadline.

At only 16 years old, Roy learned he was living with an advanced heart disease. While his peers worried about exams, friendships, and weekend plans, he worried about surviving a full day outside a hospital ward. He feared his life might end before it had truly begun.

But instead of surrendering to fear, Roy made a decision: he would live each day chasing his dream of becoming an author.

Cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, they claim nearly 20 million lives each year globally .

In Kenya, the burden is steadily rising. Non-communicable diseases, including heart conditions, account for more than half of hospital admissions, according to the Ministry of Health Kenya. Many cases go undetected until complications become severe.

Frequent hospital visits shaped Roy’s teenage years. He missed school terms, yet he still managed to maintain good grades despite his suffering. While friends planned careers and futures, Roy quietly wondered whether he would live long enough to see his own.

Long nights in hospital wards became his daily routine. There, he discovered stories.

He began reading novels to escape the reality of medical machines and whispered conversations between nurses. Eventually, he started writing  as his therapy.

He wrote about pain, fear, hope, and the uncertainty of tomorrow. He accepted that he could not control how long he would live, but he could control what he would leave behind.

By the age of 28, Roy had completed his first novel. It told his own story of racing against time to achieve his dreams before his health collapses.

Publishing was not easy. He faced rejection and doubt. Some questioned whether an unknown, chronically ill writer could succeed in a competitive literary market. But Roy refused to give up, because writing had become his reason to wake up each morning.

Within two years of publication, his book gained recognition, especially among young people facing invisible battles like illness, depression, and family struggles.

He was invited to speak at youth forums and community events. His fragile body carried a powerful voice and message: suffering does not cancel purpose.

Roy did not stop at a single achievement. He began writing  about heart health awareness, encouraging early screening and lifestyle changes. He understood that cardiovascular diseases are often called “silent killers” because many people show no symptoms until it is too late.

At 33, he published his second book which was about living intentionally when tomorrow is uncertain. Readers often described his work as a hope for the future.

For Roy, writing was no longer just a dream; it was a legacy in progress.

At 34, complications from heart failure worsened suddenly. The day he had feared for years finally arrived. Surrounded by his family, Roy passed away quietly.

But his death did not silence him.

His books continued to circulate in bookstores and classrooms. His words continued to comfort strangers. His name, once known only within hospital walls, became known in bookstores and classrooms.

His heart stopped but his voice did not.

In the limited time he had, he transformed suffering into literature and literature into legacy. 

Some people live long lives without ever being heard but for him he lived briefly but he was heard.

By MARY ANGELA KERUBO

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student, Chuka University

Lecture halls are full, cafeterias are noisy and group chats never seem to stop. From the outside, university life appears busy and vibrant. Yet, for many students, including myself at times, the noise only makes the silence louder, as laughter and chatter mask the quiet struggles hidden in plain sight.

Growing up, I always thought university would be full of freedom, friends and good lifelong memories. I imagined it as a place where everyone easily found their place. But in reality, even in crowded lecture halls and busy hostels, some students feel a sense of isolation from those around them.

Loneliness at university is often hidden. Students mask their feelings behind busy schedules, social media posts and the urge to appear strong. Many feel pressured to appear confident and happy, even when they are silently struggling inside leaving students to explore or figure out emotional isolation on their own.

A second-year student, who requested anonymity, says loneliness sometimes hits even in the middle of a crowd. “I can be surrounded by people and still feel alone,” she says. “Everyone seems fine, so it’s hard to open up about how you really feel.” 

Research shows that this is a common issue. The African Population and Health Research Centre found that about 30.9% of university students experience stress, anxiety, or depression. These problems are often linked to school pressure, money struggles, and adjusting to life away from home.

School works can make loneliness worse. Assignments, deadlines, and exams leave little time for students to create close and meaningful friendships. Financial problems can also make some students miss out on social events, which can make them feel left out and more alone.

Social media adds another layer to this problem. Seeing classmates post pictures of fun events, trips, or celebrations can make students feel even more disconnected. According to the World Health Organization, social media pressure can increase stress and anxiety among young people even though most of the time, the posts are carefully curated.

There are evenings when the campus feels strangely quiet, even though people are around. I have sat in the middle of classmates and still felt distant. These moments show that loneliness is not always about being physically alone, but about feeling disconnected from others.

Many students don’t talk about loneliness. Some are afraid of being judged, while others don’t want to seem weak. On campus, everyone seems busy and happy, which makes it harder to admit struggling. So many students deal with it quietly while pretending everything is fine.

Peer pressure can make loneliness worse. Students feel they must join parties, group activities, or outings even when they are tired and stressed. Saying “no” can be hard because everyone else is having fun. This can make students more alone, even in social settings.

Hiding feelings of loneliness can affect both mental and physical health. Some students feel anxious, lose motivation, or struggle to sleep. Being emotionally distant can also weaken friendships, making students feel even more alone despite being surrounded by people.

Even small actions can help. Checking in on friends, having short honest talks, or joining study groups can make students feel less isolated. Knowing that others can also struggle can create a sense of belonging, even in busy university settings.

In the end, behind crowded lecture halls and busy corridors are students looking not just for grades, but for connection. Sometimes, the bravest thing a student can say is simply, “I’m not okay.”

By JUNE RITA

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student,  Chuka University 

In lecture halls, hostels, buses, and even libraries, the familiar glow of smartphone screens has become a constant companion for many university students. A quick glance at a phone often turns into minutes or even hours of scrolling through social media feeds. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter), and WhatsApp dominate the daily routines of young people who are navigating academic life, friendships, and the pressure to succeed. While these digital platforms offer opportunities for learning, networking, and creativity, they also bring a growing concern: the delicate balance between success and stress.

For many students, social media is more than entertainment it is a tool for opportunity. A student can learn new skills through online tutorials, promote small businesses, or build a personal brand from the comfort of their hostel room. Some students have managed to turn their creativity into income by becoming influencers, content creators, and digital marketers. Others use online platforms to share academic resources, join discussion groups, and collaborate with peers across universities.

Take the example of university entrepreneur groups on WhatsApp and Telegram where students share job opportunities, scholarship links, and internship openings. In such spaces, a simple scroll can lead to a life changing opportunity. Many students admit that they have discovered internships, competitions, and part-time jobs through social media that they would never have found.

Social media has also given students a voice. Issues affecting young people such as unemployment, mental health, and academic pressure are now widely discussed online. Through digital platforms, students can engage in debates, raise awareness, and advocate for change. In this sense, scrolling can empower students, helping them stay informed and connected to the world around them.

However, behind the benefits lies a quieter struggle that many students rarely talk about. The same platforms that inspire ambition can also create overwhelming pressure. A few minutes of scrolling can quickly expose students to endless images of success, perfect lifestyles, academic achievements, luxury vacations, and glamorous careers

For a student already dealing with exams, financial challenges, and uncertain career prospects, these images can create a silent comparison game. One begins to question: “Why am I not doing as well as them?” The result is often anxiety, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion.

Psychologists warn that constant exposure to carefully curated online lives can distort reality. Most social media posts show the highlights of someone’s life, not the struggles behind the scenes. Yet for many young people, these posts become standards by which they measure their own lives.

Another growing concern is the impact of excessive scrolling on academic performance. Many students admit that they open their phones intending to check one message, only to realize an hour later that they have been trapped in an endless cycle of short videos and posts. This phenomenon, often referred to as “doomscrolling,” can quietly consume valuable study time.

Late night scrolling is particularly common among university students. Instead of resting, many stay awake watching videos or chatting online. Lack of sleep then leads to fatigue in class, reduced concentration, and poor academic performance. Over time, this cycle can affect both physical health and mental well-being.

Despite these challenges, the problem is not necessarily social media itself, but how it is used. Digital platforms can either be tools for growth or sources of stress depending on personal habits and self-discipline.

Some students are beginning to recognize this and are taking steps to create healthier relationships with their phones. Many now set time limits on certain apps, turn off notifications during study hours, or take short breaks from social media during exam periods. Others prefer using their phones for educational purposes such as watching academic lectures, listening to podcasts, or reading articles.

Universities and mental health experts are also encouraging digital awareness among students. Workshops and seminars are increasingly addressing topics such as digital addiction, online self-esteem, and time management. By understanding the psychological effects of social media, students can learn how to use technology without allowing it to control their lives.

Parents and educators also have an important role to play. Instead of simply warning students about the dangers of social media, they can guide them on how to use it productively. Encouraging balanced routines where study time, rest, social interaction, and digital engagement are carefully managed can help young people maintain a healthier lifestyle.

Ultimately, scrolling itself is not the enemy. Technology is a powerful tool that has opened doors to information, opportunity, and connection like never before. The challenge lies in learning how to navigate the digital world responsibly.

For today’s university student, success may lie not in abandoning social media but in mastering it. Knowing when to scroll, when to pause, and when to disconnect entirely can make the difference between a tool that empowers and one that overwhelms.

As smartphones continue to shape modern life, the question for students is no longer whether they will use social media but how. In the delicate space between ambition and anxiety, between connection and comparison, students must find their own balance. Because somewhere between success and stress, the endless scroll continues.

By MERCY KADZO JOSEPH

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student, Chuka University 

Over time, AI has been targeted to aim for an idealised, ethical standard while using the reflection of societal flaws as a diagnostic tool for improvement-- which makes invisible systematic biases visible, thereby providing a data driven foundation for ethical correction.If left unmanaged,  it will inevitably reflect society flaws, amplify them at a scale and perpetuate inequalities in areas like criminal justice and hiring.

AI use confronts human biases reducing reducing subjective evaluation of complex situations.

The argument for reflecting on society flaws is still debated as AI models are trained to be able to uncover deep-seated prejudices that might otherwise remain opaque, allowing society to confront its own biases. Highlighting societal flaws through AI help raise awareness about issues such as bias, inequality thus prompting efforts for societal improvement. 

During decision making process  it acts as a corrective tool by reminding human decision makers of objective criteria when they might be leaning on unfounded assumptions.The important role of AI is not to operate in isolation but as a Human-in-the-loop system thus highlighting flaws in frame work and human experts use that reflection to redesign more equitable societal and technical systems.

The strive for an ideal in AI is defined by the shift from high level ethical principles to enforceable governance framework and technical alignment. Systems are built to serve human dignity and rights thus ensuring technology complements rather than replaces human judgement. AI serves as a benchmark for societal improvement providing a vision of a more equitable and just society.

By DOROTHY ATIENO 

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student,  Chuka University 

In the grand tapestry of Kenya’s post-independence story, the Office of the First Lady has never been written into the Constitution, yet it has steadily woven itself into the nation’s political and social fabric. From the quiet dignity of the independence era to today’s data-driven campaigns on climate and economic empowerment, each First Lady has reflected her time and, in subtle and overt ways, shaped it. 

By examining their initiatives in healthcare, education, environmental advocacy and women’s empowerment, this article argues that Kenya’s First Ladies have exercised a form of “soft power” that has quietly influenced national priorities beyond formal political office.

The Pioneering Matriarch: Mama Ngina Kenyatta (1963–1978)

 When Kenya attained independence in 1963 under Jomo Kenyatta, the nation was fragile politically young, ethnically diverse, and emerging from colonial rule. In this uncertain climate, Mama Ngina Kenyatta stepped into public life not as a policy advocate, but as a symbol of continuity and cultural grounding.

Her title, “Mother of the Nation,” was more than ceremonial. In African political thought, motherhood is associated with moral authority and unity. As Kenya navigated land resettlement schemes, the consolidation of state power, and the forging of a national identity, Mama Ngina embodied stability. She accompanied the president on diplomatic tours, hosted foreign dignitaries, and presided over women’s gatherings that promoted Harambee (pulling together), a philosophy central to the Kenyatta administration.

Though critics argue that her influence was largely symbolic, historical accounts suggest she exercised considerable “quiet power.” Women’s groups affiliated with KANU (Kenya African National Union) found patronage and legitimacy through her presence. In an era when women were rarely visible in governance, her public role subtly normalized female presence in national leadership circles. Her tenure set the template: The First Lady as custodian of culture, faith, and national cohesion. 

The Absent Presence: Lena Moi (1978–2002)

When President Daniel Arap Moi assumed power in 1978, Kenya entered a new chapter marked by centralized authority and, eventually, political turbulence. Lena Moi’s tenure was historically unusual. Following her separation from the president in the mid-1970s, she withdrew from public life, making Kenya one of the few nations where the First Lady was largely absent from State House ceremonies.

 Yet absence is also historical evidence. Lena Moi’s retreat coincided with a deeply conservative and church-influenced political culture. A devout Christian, she devoted her energy to private religious and charitable work rather than public advocacy. While she did not spearhead national campaigns, her influence shaped the personal and moral upbringing of her children several of whom, including Gideon Moi, would later enter politics. Her era underscored an important truth: The Office of the First Lady was not yet institutionalized. It could expand or shrink depending on personal circumstance and presidential preference. In a time when political dissent was curtailed and the state tightly controlled public discourse, there was little room for independent spousal activism.

The Assertive Reformer: Lucy Kibaki (2002–2013)

 The election of Mwai Kibaki in 2002 ended KANU’s 24-year rule and ushered in an era of reform and constitutional change. Lucy Kibaki entered State House during a wave of public optimism and institutional restructuring.

 Unlike her predecessors, she was outspoken and unapologetically visible. Her fiery defence of the presidency often made headlines, challenging journalists and critics alike. While some viewed her assertiveness as controversial, historians now interpret it as a turning point: The First Lady was no longer merely ceremonial. 

Lucy Kibaki’s most enduring contribution was in public health. As chair of the Organization of African First Ladies against HIV/AIDS (OAFLA), she championed anti-stigma campaigns at a time when HIV/AIDS remained heavily stigmatized in Kenya. Government data from the 2000s shows expanded testing centres and increased national awareness campaigns during this period. 

Her legacy is physically etched into Nairobi’s landscape in the form of Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital in Embakasi the first major public hospital named after a First Lady. Commissioned to serve low-income communities, the facility symbolized a shift toward tangible, infrastructure-based impact rather than symbolic presence.

 The Marathon Diplomat: Margaret Kenyatta (2013–2022)

 When Uhuru Kenyatta assumed office in 2013, Kenya had a new Constitution (2010) that emphasized devolution and healthcare rights. Margaret Kenyatta seized this constitutional moment to professionalize the Office of the First Lady.

Her Beyond Zero Campaign, launched in 2014, addressed maternal and child mortality a pressing issue documented in Kenya Demographic and Health Surveys. At the time, maternal mortality ratios remained high, particularly in marginalized counties. 

Margaret Kenyatta’s strategy was innovative: she ran annual half-marathons to raise funds. Through public-private partnerships, the campaign purchased 52 mobile clinics distributed across all 47 counties. Ministry of Health statistics during her tenure showed increased uptake of prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) services, with HIV-positive pregnant women receiving antiretroviral therapy rising dramatically.

 Beyond Zero institutionalized results-based advocacy. The First Lady’s office became structured, strategic, and aligned with measurable health indicators marking a new era of professional governance within an unofficial office.

 The Modern Strategist: Rachel Ruto (2022–Present)

 With the election of William Ruto in 2022, Kenya entered a bottom-up economic era emphasizing small enterprise and climate resilience. Rachel Ruto’s agenda mirrors these priorities. 

Her Joyful Women Organization, founded before she entered State House, scaled nationally under her tenure. Through Table Banking a micro-finance model where women pool savings and lend to one another thousands have accessed credit without traditional collateral. Development economists point to such grassroots finance systems as critical to increasing women’s land ownership and small business formation in rural Kenya.

 Equally significant is her environmental focus. Kenya has pledged to plant billions of trees as part of its climate commitments. Rachel Ruto’s Mama Doing Good initiative links tree planting with women’s economic empowerment, framing environmental stewardship as both ecological duty and livelihood strategy. Her promotion of kitchen gardens in schools and homes supports food security amid rising climate shocks. In contrast to earlier donation-based philanthropy, her approach emphasizes sustainability and economic independence reflecting a Kenya grappling with climate change, debt pressures, and youth unemployment.

 Across six decades, the evolution of Kenya’s First Ladies tells a parallel story to the nation itself. Mama Ngina’s quiet symbolism suited a fragile post-colonial republic. Lena Moi’s retreat reflected an era of centralized power and conservative social norms. Lucy Kibaki’s assertiveness paralleled constitutional reform and expanding media freedom. Margaret Kenyatta’s structured health campaigns aligned with devolution and data-driven governance. Rachel Ruto’s focus on climate and micro-finance mirrors a generation confronting economic inequality and environmental urgency.

 Though the Office of the First Lady remains unofficial, its trajectory demonstrates a steady institutionalization of influence. From matriarch to mobilizer, from silent presence to strategic architect, the Kenyan First Lady has become not merely a companion to power, but a participant in shaping the republic’s social contract. In tracing their stories, one does not simply chronicle personalities. One traces Kenya’s transformation from a young nation seeking unity to a complex democracy striving for resilience.

By PURITY NGESA

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student,   Chuka University 

In 2017, the Kenyan government introduced C.B.C. known as Competence Based Curriculum to replace the outdated 8-4-4 curriculum.

It was designed by the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development. It was very smooth at first because very few grades had been introduced. At the moment, it was very manageable and promising both to the schools and parents. Its main focus is to shift education from exam-based rote learning to a more holistic, skills-oriented approach. 

It is set to address the perceived failures of the previous system. It focuses on developing specific skills such as collaboration and communication, critical thinking, creativity, citizenship, and digital literacy. Apart from developing skills, C.B.C. is meant to nurture talent, where it provides flexible pathways in Senior School (STEM, Social Sciences or Arts and Sports) so students can specialize based on their unique interests and strengths.

On April 24, 2025, Kenya Ministry of Education shifted the branding and framework from the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) to Competency Based Education (C.B.E.). Among the reasons for the shifting are: system-wide reform, where it not only teaches, but also deliver, assess and support. There is senior school preparation where the transition of the first C.B.E. cohort into Senior School in January 2026, must choose specific career pathways.

The introduction of the system brought about both optimism and intense frustration over its implementation. Parents thought of the financial burdens: described as financial costs, such as buying numerous textbooks, printing materials and sourcing specific items for practical projects. High-profile legal challenges were filed, most notably by the former LSK President Nelson Havi, who argued that the system was unconstitutional and experimenting with children's future.

The reaction is also split by economic class. While some middle-class parents on private schools feel the burden of buying items, parents in low income or rural areas struggle with digital illiteracy requirements and the lack of basic infrastructure (like labs and electricity) in their schools. There is a sense of hope among some that the system would better prepare students for the real world by identifying and nurturing individuals’ talents early.

Schools are also not left behind.  Most public schools have been struggling more than private schools due to a lack of state investment.  Many schools are overcrowded, lack specialized facilities required for the system and the decision to domicile Junior Secondary Schools(JSS) in primary school compounds created further strain and on existing sanitation and classroom facilities. 

Private schools often adapt more smoothly, leveraging their existing resources to market themselves as C.B.C. is ready. Better resourced private schools invested heavily in ICT, practical leaning tools and smaller class sizes leading to better student engagement. Those that complied early with the broader C.B.E. standards reportedly gained a competitive edge in national assessments.

Teachers had mixed reactions too. As the primary implementers, they expressed deep-seated concerns despite seeing values in the new approach. Majority of teachers were feeling that the 5-7 day workshops were too short and hurried to master the complex new system. The Kenya National Union of Teachers(KNUT) was initially vocal critic with leaders like Wilson Sossion, calling it elitist and foreign experiment.

Currently, everyone is in state of cautious adaptation as the system shifts into high stakes senior school phase. While students are the most positive-reporting higher engagement and excitement over talent based pathways, the adults are feeling the strain: parents continue to judge the financial and time heavy demands of co-teaching, teachers are battling burnout from massive increases in paperwork and the pressure of managing large classes with limited resources. Schools are scrambling to build the labs and specialized facilities needed for the new tracks, often relying on improvisation and community support to bridge the gap between the curriculum’s ambitious goals and the reality of the infrastructure available. 

By JEREMIAH AENJI

BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student,  Chuka University 

Across Kenya, a disturbing pattern of violent deaths involving young couples has begun to raise alarm among families, community leaders, and mental health experts. What often begins as an ordinary romantic relationship sometimes ends in tragedy when conflicts escalate beyond control.

In recent years, several shocking incidents reported in different parts of the country have involved lovers turning on each other during heated disputes, sometimes ending in murder and suicide. These painful events have triggered national conversations about emotional pressure, toxic relationships, and the growing mental health challenges facing young people.

While such tragedies once seemed rare, many observers now worry that they are becoming increasingly common. Each new case not only devastates families but also forces society to confront difficult questions about how young people handle love, conflict, and emotional stress.

A Pattern of Tragic Incidents

Police reports and media coverage over the past few years reveal a troubling pattern. In many cases, a disagreement between partners escalates into violence during moments of intense emotion. Some incidents involve one partner attacking the other before turning the weapon on themselves.

In several of these cases, friends and neighbors later say the couple had been experiencing relationship problems for some time. Arguments over jealousy, mistrust, financial difficulties, or personal expectations some times build quietly until they explode into a violent confrontation.

These tragedies often shock communities because the individuals involved are typically young people with promising futures ahead of them. Friends describe them as ordinary couples who appeared happy on the surface, making the sudden violence even harder to understand.

Experts warn that the combination of emotional immaturity, stress, and poor conflict‑resolution skills can make disagreements extremely dangerous when anger takes control.

Understanding the Pressures

Young adults in Kenya today face a wide range of pressures. Economic uncertainty, unemployment, academic expectations, and social comparison through social media can create intense emotional strain.

For many young people, romantic relationships become an important source of comfort and identity. Love provides companionship, support, and a sense of belonging during a period of life that is often filled with uncertainty.

However, when relationships become unhealthy or emotionally intense, the same bond that brings comfort can also produce deep pain. Feelings such as jealousy, betrayal, rejection, and insecurity can trigger strong emotional reactions.

Psychologists explain that many young adults are still learning how to manage these emotions. Without the skills to communicate effectively or resolve conflicts peacefully, arguments can escalate rapidly.

In some situations, individuals react impulsively during moments of extreme anger or emotional distress. When weapons such as knives or other objects are nearby, the consequences can become fatal within minutes.

The Hidden Mental Health Crisis

Mental health professionals say these violent incidents may also reflect a deeper and often overlooked problem: untreated emotional and psychological distress among young people.

Depression, anxiety, trauma, and unresolved personal struggles frequently remain hidden because many people fear being judged if they speak openly about their mental health. As a result, individuals may carry heavy emotional burdens alone.

Counselors note that relationship problems often become the trigger that exposes deeper emotional struggles. When a breakup, betrayal, or intense argument occurs, it may push someone who is already emotionally overwhelmed into a dangerous mental state.

“Mental health challenges among young people are often invisible,” explains one Nairobi-based counselor. “Someone may appear normal on the outside while struggling with serious emotional pain internally. When that pain meets relationship conflict, the results can be devastating.”

Breaking the Silence

Many experts believe that addressing these tragedies requires a broader national conversation about emotional well-being, relationships, and conflict resolution. Families, schools, and communities all play a role in teaching young people how to manage emotions, communicate respectfully, and handle disagreements without violence. Learning how to cope with rejection, heartbreak, and disappointment is an important life skill that is rarely discussed openly.

Public awareness campaigns about mental health could also encourage people to seek help before emotional struggles become overwhelming. Counseling services, peer support groups, and community programs may help individuals process their feelings in healthy ways.

Equally important is reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. When people feel safe discussing their struggles, they are more likely to reach out for support instead of suffering in silence.

A National Wake-Up Call

The rising number of violent relationship tragedies should serve as a wake-up call for the Kenyan society. These incidents are not simply isolated crimes; they are warning signs of deeper emotional and social challenges affecting many young people.

Preventing future tragedies requires collective effort. Parents must maintain open communication with their children, communities should encourage healthy relationship values, and institutions must strengthen mental health support systems.

Love should never become a reason for violence. With better awareness, stronger emotional support, and open conversations about mental health, Kenya can begin to address the pressures that sometimes turn relationships into deadly conflicts.

The hope is that by confronting this issue honestly, the country can protect young lives and ensure that love remains a source of joy and growth rather than tragedy.

By MIUREGA ENKIROTE REDEMPTA

Chuka University,  Bachelor of Arts Journalism and Mass Communication 

One of the most alarming questions today is whether a deadbeat father should be considered a  father. On birth certificates and in law ,fatherhood is simply a man whose name appears  beside a child. 

However, beyond biology and paperwork lies a deeper question that continues to stir emotions in homes and court rooms:what truly defines a father? Is it DNA ,or is it responsibility and dedication  towards the child? It sad to note that most children grow up knowing their fathers only as distant figures i.e present in blood but absent in responsibility, while others have never seen their father nor know their existence.

In our  African  customs, it is a taboo for  a child to be born without  paternal presence in  the family. In most cases , in our societies  young girls who become expectant before marriage   tend to be forcefully made to do abortion in order  to cover  the shame. The victims’ parents always have an aim of portraying their children as holy in order to avoid their dignity from being destroyed and wide spread of gossip in their respective communities. What happens to courageous  girls who refuse to submit to abortion? Are they accepted back by their parents? Do their partners take responsibility ?

Unfortunately , some tend to run away from their homes in order  to save their unborn babies and their lives because their parents do not accept their situations. On our social media platforms, you opt to see videos of many ladies narrating the struggles their undergo being single mothers. It is very painful when you listen to their talks and wonder how can  fathers be so cruel to the extent of not taking responsibility  and even going to the point of claiming they are not the fathers yet some of the children are their own photocopies. We are living in an era where most men are abandoning their responsibility when they mess up and shamelessly threaten the victims to never show up in their lives and refuse to acknowledge  their existence pretending they have never seen, heard or associated  with them.

Scrolling on my social media platforms , l came across  a young mother being interviewed on why she  decided to  become a sex worker yet there are many job opportunities  she would have selected. She claimed that life became very harsh  and unforgiving due to harsh economy and she had  children  to take care of.  Her boyfriend ran away  because taking care of the   children was expensive and she could not bring herself to seeking help from her parents because they were not in good terms . For the well being of her children, she decided to take this path for no pain no gain. Her dignity was  trampled but she had to wear mask to cover her  pain for the well-being of  her children. 

Most single  mothers tend to do anything for the happiness of their children and to ensure they live a comfortable life  and never feel  that they lack love. Behind their warm smiles, however, are untold sacrifices. Many wake up before dawn and sleep long after midnight, juggling work , household duties and parenting without a break. They deny themselves simple comforts just to provide school fees ,food and decent clothing.

Sometimes the society is unkind .Words are whispered, fingers pointed, their dignity is questioned. Yet they remain strong not because they are hurting, but because giving up is not an option in their lives as strength becomes  a daily decision for the well being of their children. There are nights when they do not sleep tossing on their beds from one point to another, tears falling onto their pillows because they do not have a shoulder to lean on. They worry about what will become of their children in the future  if they suddenly succumb to death and leave their children all alone in  this unforgiving world. 

The fear of not being  enough torments them but when they see their innocent children’s  faces , they rise again with determination  because love pushes  them forward as they got each other back. Single mothers may stand alone but carry the weight of two parents with courage. Her struggles  shape her into  a warrior and though the world may not always recognize her sacrifices, she only believes that her children will one day understand  that every sacrifice was made up  of pure and unconditional love.

It is very shocking to see a grown-up man who neglected their responsibility crawling back shamelessly after  hearing the success of their abandoned children. You tend to wonder why do they want to be accepted back and recognized as the fathers when the struggles of single motherhood have  yielded  fruits. 

Early January after KCSE results were announced we saw single mothers  happily dancing and singing for the success of their children . One of the single mothers  in a matatu claimed that the cruel father wants to come back and fight for the custody of the child after hearing the child performed well. This reminded me of an African notion that a child who excel in their  examination is as wise as the father but one who fails is as foolish as the mother.

In conclusion , a deadbeat father can not truly be considered  a father because fatherhood is more than just a biological connection. It requires responsibility ,care , protection and active involvement in a child’s life . A man who abandons his duties leaves the child without  guidance , support and emotional security .True  fatherhood is measured by love ,commitment and the willingness  to nurture and provide. Therefore, society should recognize that being a father is defined by actions , not just by a name on a birth certificate  nor by DNA.