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Technology to the Youth; A Cursed Blessing

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By NJERI MICKEYDAN KIOKO 

Bachelor of Arts [Degree] Second Year Student,  Chuka University 

Technology is a collection of techniques, methods, skills and processes used in the production of goods and services or in the accomplishment of certain objectives. Technology can be embedded in machines, computers, devices and factories or it can just be knowledge of particular techniques and processes.
While the internet is of great use, we need tk strike a balance to avoid its side effects.

For eons, the world has witnessed revolutionary technologies being birthed to both the benefit and even the detriment of the society. Key among life-altering technologies is the internet. The internet is the technological ‘Everest’. In this age, the internet needs no introduction considering it runs most if not all aspects of our lives. 

The internet is an extraordinary pendulum that swings across all facets of our lives. This ranges from but limited to education, social networking, business, military and leisure. By definition, the internet is a global system of interconnected mainframe, personal and wireless computer networks that links billions of devices worldwide. Since its creation, its creators have been tirelessly finessing it so as to simplify its use and widen its reach and effects. As a result, the internet is becoming a second nature. It is rapidly falling into the category of food, shelter and clothing; basic needs.

My mother always says “The internet is both a heaven and an abyss. It is double-edged sword that cuts for good and the bad. A careful balance needs to be struck or else the cons might outweigh the pros”

The internet has consumers from all cadres of life; the rich and the poor, young and old. However, the youth make up the largest proportion of internet consumers. From studies, 97% of adolescents (aged between 12 and 18 years) and Gen Zs (aged between 18 and 24 years) use internet. 

The youth are the largest beneficiaries of technology, per se. The benefits accorded to them by the internet can be argued with but so are the risks associated with its use. There exists a fine line between the benefits and risks of internet use. 

The internet is both a heaven and an abyss. It is a doubled-edged sword that cuts for good and the bad. A careful balance needs to be struck or else the cons might outweigh the pros just like my mother says.

The internet has simplified education to the youth to unimaginable levels. Gone are the days when education used to be a preserve for the privileged. Nowadays, academic materials are just a click or a tap-on-screen away. Their availability is non-issue but rather than the willingness on the part of learners. Back in the day, academic materials were just confined to a particular physical location and mark you, they were as scarce as it could get. You could imagine the hustle that went into completing assignments.

Nowadays, COPY-PASTE offers a simple and easy fix to such. No wonder assignments are always done at the last minute. It is not uncommon for our tutors to decry our lack of creativity and laziness considering that there is no much to be improvised. The internet is the improvisation. On the same, Professor Kyalo Wa Ngula, a lecturer at Chuka University notes that, “The fact that the internet has improved immensely access to academic materials can’t be overstated. When I was a student, studying was limited by scarce resources as is not the case currently. This is a positive to the internet but at what cost? I can confidently say that such open everything is readily available. While some students are capitalizing on learning opportunities, some have become outright lazy. It is up to students to draw a line or else all the good brought by the internet could go to waste”.

Also, this easy access of information is coming with a very steep price tag. While good data can be accessed, so can bad data like pornography, violence and negative propaganda; all begging for attention.  A parent from Ruiru notes that, “I have resorted to putting filters on our home desktop and laptop so as to limit access to bad content but still know that my children can still access bad content elsewhere. I have done my best; the rest is up to the young people themselves. They need to make the right choices”. 

Social media has become a drug to the youth, a very addictive drug. It is always about Facebook, X (which was formerly Twitter), WhatsApp and Instagram. All these are a perfect embodiment of a global village. Social media is a god. Speaking to a Chuka University student named Purity Wanjiru, she notes, “I can’t believe a life without social media. It is a very simplified way of me communicating with friends both in the country and abroad. I would rather have internet bundles in my phone than airtime”. 

People who are miles apart can keep in touch as if they were in the same room. Social media has brought people who are closer to be far away. It is not strange to find people in a room as glued and smiling at their phones bur barely talking to each other. Virtual social interaction have improved at the expense of real physical interactions, the kind of communication that actually matters most. Young people spit so much game while on social media but disappoint so much when you meet them in person.

The amount spent on social media by the youth is also alarming when it comes to economic productivity. According to a study conducted by Common Sense Media, teens in the USA spend about nine hours in a day using internet media for their enjoyment; watching TV, playing video games, listening to music and checking social media. That nine hours is more than the amount of time they spend sleeping or studying. What does the future hold?

In China, suicide rates among the youth were over the roof due to internet addiction. Young people seek solace in the internet instead of real human interaction. They no longer talk with their physical friends, parents and teachers but rather than their phones, AI and the internet. How disturbing?

From analyzing the effects of internet on education and social interactions, it is more than clear that the internet is essential. It adds too much value to be ignored. But, on the flip side, its bad effects are so palpable. They are also too much to be ignored. This is a horrible reality nonetheless. Something has to be done. The youth need to exercise restraint in their use of internet. Yes, they use the internet but at no point should they allow this resource to put a noose around their necks. The internet shouldn’t be a complete substitute for life. Our lives are far too precious. Tread the thin line carefully.

Fathers in Name Only

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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. 

Deadbeat dads want the crown of fatherhood minus responsibilities 

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.





 

 

The Broken Promise: Navigating the Shadows of Campus Life

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By DAMACKLINE ONDICHO

Second Year BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student,  Chuka University 

Every year, thousands of young people walk through the gates of universities with dreams in their hearts and the prayers of their families behind them. In their villages and towns, they are seen as symbols of hope, the pride of their parents and the promise of a brighter future. 
While campus life is fun, it's not funny when done irresponsibly.

Many parents struggle to raise tuition fees, often sacrificing their comfort and basic needs so that their children can receive an education that may one day uplift the entire family from poverty. However, behind the vibrant image of campus life lies a troubling reality that continues to threaten the dreams of many students. While universities are expected to nurture knowledge, discipline, and opportunity, some students fall into lifestyles that derail their academic journeys and, in tragic cases, even lead to the loss of young lives.

The journey to university is often built on immense sacrifice. Parents in many Kenyan households survive on limited incomes, yet they remain committed to supporting their children's education. Some take loans, sell livestock or work extra hours to ensure that school fees are paid and accommodation is secured. Their greatest hope is to see their children graduate and eventually transform the lives of their families and communities.

Yet the transition to campus life can be overwhelming for many students. Away from parental supervision and surrounded by newfound freedom, some students begin to view themselves as completely independent. In this environment, peer pressure becomes a powerful force. Students from different economic backgrounds suddenly interact in the same spaces, and the desire to fit in can push some into unhealthy lifestyles.

In the effort to maintain certain social standards, some students find themselves drawn into negative influences such as substance abuse and irresponsible spending habits. These choices not only affect their academic performance but also damage their emotional and mental well-being. Over time, what begins as harmless experimentation can develop into destructive behavior that threatens both their future and their relationships with others.

Another disturbing trend that has emerged in some campuses is conflict within romantic relationships among students. Many young couples choose to live together without adequate emotional maturity or guidance. When disagreements arise, these situations can escalate into serious confrontations. In extreme cases, such conflicts have led to violence, leaving families, friends, and university communities in deep shock and grief.

The consequences of such tragedies extend far beyond the campus environment. For parents who have invested so much in their children's education, the loss of a child through suicide, violence, or other preventable circumstances is a devastating blow.

Communities are left questioning how such promising lives could end so suddenly when so much hope had been placed upon them.
Universities are meant to be spaces of growth, discovery, and preparation for responsible adulthood. For this reason, students must recognize the value of the opportunities before them. The sacrifices made by parents and guardians should serve as a constant reminder of the responsibility students carry, not only to themselves but also to the families and communities that believe in them.

As the future leaders of society, university students must strive to make wise choices and build positive environments that encourage personal growth, mutual respect, and academic success. By resisting harmful influences and focusing on their goals, students can restore the true meaning of campus life and ensure that the promise of higher education becomes a reality rather than a broken dream.

Unforgettable Memories That Mark Campus Life

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By VIOLET ATIENO 

BA Student Journalism and Mass Communication, Chuka University 

A comrade's day revolves around sleep, study hunger, and hope. The name breakfast sound like an insult to many comrades and if one manages to have what is known as breakfast it is just a cup of some black tea and when you dig, you can manage some small snacks to keep you going.Inside the comrade's hostel are watered eyes, empty stomach and a depression zone.  
Students in academic attire on a graduation day.

Early in the morning this is actually the hour in a comrade hostel , where they learn discipline not because of lectures but because of survival demand it. By around 7.AM some student moves in confident ,others are anxious and some get lost in thoughts. 

In lecture halls not all who attend are there for what brought them but others are present just to meet the school expectation of student attendance. Others are in the lecture halls just to sign the attendance sheet while others are there to do what brought them to school. 

In the lecture halls, the lecturer's sounds are heard.  Their voices echo as they pass the knowledge to the empty stomached campus students. The lecturer finishes his or her work and got out of the class.

The campus life is not for faint hearted ones. It needs constant encouragement and motivations. It carries the depressed souls , the abandoned ones. 

The campus is also a scene of highly pregnant ones. It is where students marry each other. Campus can influence one both positively and negatively. Here one has to choose wisely. Peer pressure should not carry you around. 

In campus there are drugs and immorality. Not to judge but other campus folks turn their body as money laundry tools where they sell themselves to live a lavish life. 

Others campus students become con people just to live a wonderful life. Some fail to study at the hostel because they fail to pay electricity tokens. 

 Academically, life as a comrade is demanding. The lecturer can be long and sometimes overwhelming. The units sometimes are exhausting.  Group discussions, presentations and projects became parts of everyday life .As a comrade you just have have to balance academic life with with all the temptations of social life and entertainment.  
 
Financial challenges is another facet in a comrades life. Many student rely on support from their families or loans from High Education Loans Board (HELB). Budgeting becomes another hectic process and a skill is needed . Rent, food, printing assignments, and personal expenses must all fit within your limited resources. Sometimes you find out the money runs out before even the semester ends. 

Some comrades do share food and support each other. The expriences shapes one's skills in resilience and teaches one valuable lessons.

Social life of a campus is vibrant and diverse. University itself is universal therefore it brings all of people together. Friendships are always formed in clubs, the lecture halls, hostels and even churches. Some university students actually attend church. 

University elections are also here,the debates and even the campaigns builds an atmosphere of political awareness and an an active citizenship.In campuses, student elections bring people together. Student leadership connect to the national political landscape. Being a comrade sometimes means standing up for student right,and also pushing for fair polices. 

Demonstration also take place here.Comrades learn courage and the importance of collective action.

Romantic relationships are also part of a campus life.Young students explore love and commitment . Some relationship work and others do not work. Some end up killing each other just as the recent case in Chuka University where a girl stabbed his boyfriend three times in what is believed to be a love triangle. In romantic relationships, comrades learn about trust, communication, and self worth. These lessons contribute to personal growth and emotional maturity.

Technology has also significantly shaped modern campus life. The online classes and digital libraries have changed how comrades learn and interact with lecturers. Social media has also influence opinion and even activism. A wise comrade uses technology as a tool rather than becoming controlled by it.

Faith and personal values also guide comrades through challenges. It's either through religious fellowships, community groups or personal reflection. I have also found out many students use this faith make them find strength in spirituality. It provides comfort , moral guidance and a sense of belonging.

As years pass, a comrade envolves. The shy first year student progressively becomes confident and outspoken. Skills in communication, critical thinking and interaction are developed. Mistakes made becomes lessons. 

And when final year kicks in, there is a mixture of excitement and fear. Many start to reflect their life after campus and the fear of entering into unknown work world beyond campus.

Graduation day is always a proud moment. Wearing the gown symbolizes years of sacrifice, perseverance and growth. Families celebrate there student achievements knowing the journey was not easy . 

To the comrade, it’s a reflection of how life has been and how he/she overcame the sleepless nights, financial struggles and even the fears.

In conclusion, life as a comrade is a transformative experience filled with challenges , growth and unforgettable memories. It is a time of learning not only from books but from life itself. It teaches independence , resilience , responsibility and unity . 

Though the journey maybe difficult, it prepares individuals for the realities of adulthood and the pursuit of their dreams. To be a comrade is to be part of a community that shares struggle and celebrates victories together. It is a chapter of life that leaves a permanent mark on one character and future.

The Promise and Reality of CBE in Kenya

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By MUTISYA NDUKU 

BA Journalism and Mass Communication Student,  Chuka University 


When Kenya introduced the Competency-Based Curriculum to replace the 8-4-4 Education System, it was seen as a major step towards transforming the education sector. The new system promised to nurture talent, encourage creativity and equip learners with practical skills needed in today’s world. However, several years after its introduction, the reality shows both progress and a number of challenges.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba. The implementation of CBE curriculum has both successes and challenges. It is meant to replace the 8-4-4 curriculum.

One of the main promises of the Competency-Based Curriculum was to move away from an exam-oriented education system. For many years under the 8-4-4 system, success in school was largely determined by performance in national examinations. As a result, many students focused on memorising information rather than understanding concepts or developing practical skills.

CBE was designed to change this approach. The system focuses on helping learners develop competencies such as communication, critical thinking, collaboration and creativity. Instead of relying only on exams, learners are assessed through activities, projects and continuous evaluation. This method is intended to help students understand what they learn and apply it in real-life situations.

Another important promise of CBE was to recognise that learners have different abilities and talents. While some students perform well academically, others have strengths in areas such as sports, music, art or technical skills. The new curriculum aims to identify and nurture these talents from an early stage so that every learner has an opportunity to succeed.

Supporters of the new system believe that this approach is more suitable for the modern world. Today’s society requires individuals who can innovate, solve problems and work with others. By focusing on practical skills and creativity, the curriculum hopes to prepare learners to become productive and responsible citizens.

Despite these promising goals, the implementation of CBE has faced several difficulties. One major challenge has been limited preparation for teachers. Many teachers reported that they were not given enough training before the new curriculum was introduced. As a result, some educators still struggle to fully understand how to implement the system effectively in their classrooms.

Parents have also faced challenges adjusting to the new curriculum. In many cases, learners are required to complete projects at home, which sometimes requires materials that parents must provide. For families with limited income, this has become a financial burden.

Another issue is the lack of adequate resources in some schools. For CBE to work effectively, schools need proper learning materials, equipment and enough classroom space to support practical activities. However, many schools, especially public institutions, still face shortages of these important resources.

Large class sizes also make it difficult for teachers to give individual attention to learners, which is an important part of competency-based learning. In addition, the continuous assessment process has increased the workload for some teachers.

Even with these challenges, the Competency-Based Curriculum still has the potential to improve education in Kenya. Education reforms often take time before they fully succeed. With proper support and adjustments, the system can still achieve its intended goals.

For the curriculum to work effectively, the government needs to invest more in teacher training, school infrastructure and learning materials. Teachers should be given adequate support so that they can confidently guide learners through the new system. Parents also need more awareness and understanding of the goals of CBE so that they can support their children effectively.

The introduction of the Competency-Based Curriculum was meant to transform education and prepare Kenyan learners for a rapidly changing world. While the promise of the system is clear, the reality shows that there are still challenges that need to be addressed.
If these issues are handled carefully and stakeholders work together, CBE can become a powerful tool for developing skilled, creative and confident learners who are ready to shape the future of Kenya.
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