By Kinyua Njeri
The other day, a score of readers accused me of being unethical and insolent when I stated that in the forthcoming elections, elders will watch toddlers play. I cannot escape mentioning Mahatma Gandhi who once said that he’d be more pleased by those who step on his footprints than those who kiss his feet. Well, I have never known why I always feel better challenged than praised...it's a thing I've had since birth. Here, I'll tell you why.
To begin with, those conversant with the trends in MUSO politics will agree with me that anyone, vying or politically heavy-weighted, who does not understand the semantics of the concept of 'a toddler’ in the context of Moi University, should quit politics forthwith. Why? It's simply because no one can know where MUSO is headed to, if he doesn't know where it came from. It's as terse as that.
Now, it is true to say that age is not an aspect of leadership. In fact, I prefer when wise ‘children’ lead adults. This is because wisdom also does not necessarily increase with age. You see, an old person is experienced, but not always wise. That I agree. But in a very concerned tone of reality, I fear for a society that has the young governing the old. This may be best explained by the change of trends in families in the 21st century where children 'overthrew' their parents long time ago. Every move leads to regret and if it continues, the family will soon be a mortal hell!
Let's come back to the incoming SGC. A close look at the aspirants leaves me with more doubts than hopes. You see, most of them have been my close friends ever since I joined this fenceless university. I know, yes I do, how most of them function (except for a certain aspirant whose links dominate comments of this wall just caught my attention). It is definitely true that the urge and desire for gold, glory and power is the dark and primitive instinct that drives most of them. They will accuse former regimes of underperforming and appreciate no effort that has ever been made. To them, every MUSO regime was bogus and very inconsequential. Why? They want to justify, curtain and conceal their gluttonous motives the blame game.
As Dikembe and Obilo once said in MU Fm, most of the aspirants do not know why they are vying. They are just vying to fill the slots. Sometime back, last month to be specific, I strived to convince a certain aspirant who was so much obsessed with becoming the 'next' Assistant Academics Director, a position that even doesn't exist in the MUSO constitution!
And you still say this is not toddler business?
Saturday, August 17, 2013
Friday, August 16, 2013
WHAT FRESHERS MUST KNOW….part-1 (The Shamba Boy Series)
By Maalim Salat
Last week, Winnie, one of my classmates was removed from her room in Hostel K. She was dragged to the dirty field that is between Hostel J and studie, forced to face the admin and swear while shouting “26th SGC tuko pamoja” seventeen times while drinking a bitter liquid mixed with goat’s sperms. She suspected that the perpetrators were affiliated to one of the current shopkeepers (sorry, directors) who hails from her community and to whom she refused to vote for last semester.
I take this chance to welcome the innocent species of My University to this university with defects (sorry, I meant difference). Freshers karibuni to My University where you are expected to sleep on top of trees and attend classes. It is my time to orient you.
Let me start with the prefect body led by the head boy. Here, they are called SGC. They are chosen from the hungriest students and end up being shopkeepers. The head boy is called chairman. He is so powerful that he can make the university security officials to suspend me for writing this after which you can go on strike. He is called toothless dog or Mr. dog-hana Meno.
The one who gave you his number the other day is called Mr. Tight-ass (anavaanga tight shirts na tight jeans). He is the prefect in-charge of mwax and sups. He gave you his number during your orientation because that was the only way to kwachua as many freshers as possible. I hear he doesn’t pick calls unless u text him, “me ni Esther” or something that suggests that you belong to the female species. This semester is named after him (Mururu semester) because he made sure we come back so that his chips business thrives.
The prefect in-charge of money and shops is called Pesa Wale Nakula. Like him or not, you paid him sh.500 when you reported to this campus. He is the treasurer of the campus thieves. But I salute him for being the only director worth our votes. He is the one behind the return of the MUSO cyber cafe and wireless network around Soweto. Clap for him! Again! Thank you.
The head girl is the vice chair lady who would come to your room during her campaigns and ask you while holding you color, “utanivotia ama nikuchape kofi?” She is Get Rude Chemka. I once tried to date her and she was like ‘are you man enough?’ I still wonder whether she meant I go buy Viagra or atanichapa. Si angeishi tu huko Nyeri?
The only confused member among the SGC is called Viola YEGON. Her surname must be written in capital letters or else... She is the assistant prefect in-charge of nothing. (The other day I saw her at Hijaz Hotel with a very handsome mswahili boy. I was told he is her new boyfriend. Kumbe hata ladies hukwachua freshers? I wonder why she damped my friend Simon, the former assistant prefect). I am saying she is confused because she doesn’t as yet know how to steal our money na Simo hajamfunza.
Let us go to the classes where you find some ugly students named class-rapes. They are raped by the situation. They did not kwachua nor were they kwachuad. They don’t have boy/girlfriends. They chose to be class-rapes so that classmates can take their numbers and at least, text them “hi, daro imebounce ama?” Be kind to them, sawa? Very good!
And lastly, there is a place called exile. Don’t ask me where in main campus it is located. This is the place where your roommate will send you to when he is visited by his/her overnight partner. In the words of the late Kijana Wamalwa, you can spend the rest of the night puffing a cigarette outside, ama uende frakaz!
I have some sodas and cakes for you behind this wall, take only one of each and have a very good day.
Don’t miss the Shamba Boy’s humour every Wednesday.
Last week, Winnie, one of my classmates was removed from her room in Hostel K. She was dragged to the dirty field that is between Hostel J and studie, forced to face the admin and swear while shouting “26th SGC tuko pamoja” seventeen times while drinking a bitter liquid mixed with goat’s sperms. She suspected that the perpetrators were affiliated to one of the current shopkeepers (sorry, directors) who hails from her community and to whom she refused to vote for last semester.
I take this chance to welcome the innocent species of My University to this university with defects (sorry, I meant difference). Freshers karibuni to My University where you are expected to sleep on top of trees and attend classes. It is my time to orient you.
Let me start with the prefect body led by the head boy. Here, they are called SGC. They are chosen from the hungriest students and end up being shopkeepers. The head boy is called chairman. He is so powerful that he can make the university security officials to suspend me for writing this after which you can go on strike. He is called toothless dog or Mr. dog-hana Meno.
The one who gave you his number the other day is called Mr. Tight-ass (anavaanga tight shirts na tight jeans). He is the prefect in-charge of mwax and sups. He gave you his number during your orientation because that was the only way to kwachua as many freshers as possible. I hear he doesn’t pick calls unless u text him, “me ni Esther” or something that suggests that you belong to the female species. This semester is named after him (Mururu semester) because he made sure we come back so that his chips business thrives.
The prefect in-charge of money and shops is called Pesa Wale Nakula. Like him or not, you paid him sh.500 when you reported to this campus. He is the treasurer of the campus thieves. But I salute him for being the only director worth our votes. He is the one behind the return of the MUSO cyber cafe and wireless network around Soweto. Clap for him! Again! Thank you.
The head girl is the vice chair lady who would come to your room during her campaigns and ask you while holding you color, “utanivotia ama nikuchape kofi?” She is Get Rude Chemka. I once tried to date her and she was like ‘are you man enough?’ I still wonder whether she meant I go buy Viagra or atanichapa. Si angeishi tu huko Nyeri?
The only confused member among the SGC is called Viola YEGON. Her surname must be written in capital letters or else... She is the assistant prefect in-charge of nothing. (The other day I saw her at Hijaz Hotel with a very handsome mswahili boy. I was told he is her new boyfriend. Kumbe hata ladies hukwachua freshers? I wonder why she damped my friend Simon, the former assistant prefect). I am saying she is confused because she doesn’t as yet know how to steal our money na Simo hajamfunza.
Let us go to the classes where you find some ugly students named class-rapes. They are raped by the situation. They did not kwachua nor were they kwachuad. They don’t have boy/girlfriends. They chose to be class-rapes so that classmates can take their numbers and at least, text them “hi, daro imebounce ama?” Be kind to them, sawa? Very good!
And lastly, there is a place called exile. Don’t ask me where in main campus it is located. This is the place where your roommate will send you to when he is visited by his/her overnight partner. In the words of the late Kijana Wamalwa, you can spend the rest of the night puffing a cigarette outside, ama uende frakaz!
I have some sodas and cakes for you behind this wall, take only one of each and have a very good day.
Don’t miss the Shamba Boy’s humour every Wednesday.
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
THE CHURCH MUST GUIDE ITS FLOCK IN THIS ELECTION
By Gitungo Wamere
Politics is a dirty game and so the saying goes and this might be the sole reason why church leaders shy away from politics and fail to guide the children of God in making tough political decisions. Politics I say is not dirty since it is a fundamental building block of life, and therefore life is politics and politics is life. Even if it is dirty injecting hygiene in it is imperative.
With the prevailing political mood within the campus, as the church here exorcises demons, methinks the demon of political apathy within the church must top the list. The church is the conscience of the society and the religious organizations within the campus can be rightly discussed as the conscience of this campus. These organizations pray when things go wrong, somehow they basically pray for everything in this institutions but it becomes a contradiction when they fail to take charge when the opportunity to raise political leaders come.
Good people, of the church especially those on the leadership positions come and let us reason together. The chairperson of Christian Union, MUSDA and Catholic Students Association you have a large constituency that you head, and at least you stand for something good. Good people, you value virtues and moral values and that is why I think you should take a stand in this election.
Student’s governance is in dire need of a moral re-awakening and having the church as the moral custodian of the society the church has a big role to play. In the last national elections the church tried
putting a moral gauge on all the running mates of the presidential candidates and that made the election different. The church herein should also break from the cocoon of traditions and make the forthcoming MUSO election different.
Student leadership and politics in general is not meant for rebels neither for celebrities, it’s for people who understand the dynamics of society and can manipulate them for positive change. The church using its highly respected spectacles of virtues and moral values they can easily help identify capable leaders and lead the congregation accordingly in making a wise decision.
The church must add its input in the effort to reclaim the glory of our union. It must contribute to the debate of which philosophy and ideology that our union must be grounded on. It must be there as we try to regain our moral compass.
A lot has been said and done but the church can make the forthcoming election memorable for all the good reasons. Prayers alone are not enough and it is time the church decorate its faith with actions. It time to speak out before the Church’s voice is shut forever.
Politics is a dirty game and so the saying goes and this might be the sole reason why church leaders shy away from politics and fail to guide the children of God in making tough political decisions. Politics I say is not dirty since it is a fundamental building block of life, and therefore life is politics and politics is life. Even if it is dirty injecting hygiene in it is imperative.
With the prevailing political mood within the campus, as the church here exorcises demons, methinks the demon of political apathy within the church must top the list. The church is the conscience of the society and the religious organizations within the campus can be rightly discussed as the conscience of this campus. These organizations pray when things go wrong, somehow they basically pray for everything in this institutions but it becomes a contradiction when they fail to take charge when the opportunity to raise political leaders come.
Good people, of the church especially those on the leadership positions come and let us reason together. The chairperson of Christian Union, MUSDA and Catholic Students Association you have a large constituency that you head, and at least you stand for something good. Good people, you value virtues and moral values and that is why I think you should take a stand in this election.
Student’s governance is in dire need of a moral re-awakening and having the church as the moral custodian of the society the church has a big role to play. In the last national elections the church tried
putting a moral gauge on all the running mates of the presidential candidates and that made the election different. The church herein should also break from the cocoon of traditions and make the forthcoming MUSO election different.
Student leadership and politics in general is not meant for rebels neither for celebrities, it’s for people who understand the dynamics of society and can manipulate them for positive change. The church using its highly respected spectacles of virtues and moral values they can easily help identify capable leaders and lead the congregation accordingly in making a wise decision.
The church must add its input in the effort to reclaim the glory of our union. It must contribute to the debate of which philosophy and ideology that our union must be grounded on. It must be there as we try to regain our moral compass.
A lot has been said and done but the church can make the forthcoming election memorable for all the good reasons. Prayers alone are not enough and it is time the church decorate its faith with actions. It time to speak out before the Church’s voice is shut forever.
Monday, August 12, 2013
WHY THESE ELECTIONS MUST NOT BE BUSINESS AS USUAL
By Mohammed Doyo
The elections, in just a month, can’t and will not be business as usual. The business of short changing comrades by conducting fraudulent campaigns-where cheap victory is bought through appeals of tribalism, the fanning of tribal alliances, the perennial crossfire heckling and the making of irresponsible promises-must surely come to an end.
These elections are different. The exercise is not a mere routine to satisfy MUSO constitutional requirement for a one year voting cycle.
It hinges on the desperate need to exorcise the ghosts of an under-performing 26th SGC (Students’ Governing Council) and the need to restore comrades’ power that died way back after a bunch of self interested, administration projects found place in MUSO politics.
After voting in previous SGCs that were largely accused of corruption and neglect of comrades’ issues, 2013 provides an opportunity for redemption.
The union’s very future is at stake, Comrades are hopeless, disappointed and disillusioned by MUSO politics after a dismal performance by past SGC’s. Mind you, they were largely voted in by their ability to supply cheap liquor and highly diluted juice, their rhetorical capabilities during crossfire and their tribal backgrounds. The upcoming election is an opportunity for students to begin getting things right
Most important, this must be an election with an agenda for students rather than an agenda for student politicians who have ambitions for a big office and big money. What’s in it for us as the people?
The office that will be elected in September 6 elections must restore the spirit of comradeship back. Comradeship that was there during the eras of Hassan Omar, Mama Rainbow, and the likes of Garang. Comradeship that wouldn’t allow a section of the students suffer in the hands of the administration while the majorities just watch.
Of importance again is the dilapidated state of the institution’s infrastructure, from the hostels to the lecture halls. However hard it might prove to be, the next SGC must not relent to push for renovation and maintenance of these buildings.
The issue of planning the academic calendars and the official communication of the reporting dates is a critical and an urgent one and calls for a MUSO office that will be caring and fierce enough to force the administration to be releasing the dates moths before and not the last minute. Students are tired with unplanned impromptu further notices.
Perhaps the biggest threat facing MUSO is corruption, misappropriation of funds, overriding self interests and disunity in the SGC -politics of my docket’. This destroys the capacity of the leaders we elect to serve us.
The leaders we need are not the ones that ride tribalism to power and nurturing it to eat to the fullest. We need leaders who will put the students’ interest first.
Students are encouraged to question aspirants on this agenda. Those who have nothing concrete do not belong in leadership. This election is a game-changer. But only if it is about issues and not personalities.
The elections, in just a month, can’t and will not be business as usual. The business of short changing comrades by conducting fraudulent campaigns-where cheap victory is bought through appeals of tribalism, the fanning of tribal alliances, the perennial crossfire heckling and the making of irresponsible promises-must surely come to an end.
These elections are different. The exercise is not a mere routine to satisfy MUSO constitutional requirement for a one year voting cycle.
It hinges on the desperate need to exorcise the ghosts of an under-performing 26th SGC (Students’ Governing Council) and the need to restore comrades’ power that died way back after a bunch of self interested, administration projects found place in MUSO politics.
After voting in previous SGCs that were largely accused of corruption and neglect of comrades’ issues, 2013 provides an opportunity for redemption.
The union’s very future is at stake, Comrades are hopeless, disappointed and disillusioned by MUSO politics after a dismal performance by past SGC’s. Mind you, they were largely voted in by their ability to supply cheap liquor and highly diluted juice, their rhetorical capabilities during crossfire and their tribal backgrounds. The upcoming election is an opportunity for students to begin getting things right
Most important, this must be an election with an agenda for students rather than an agenda for student politicians who have ambitions for a big office and big money. What’s in it for us as the people?
The office that will be elected in September 6 elections must restore the spirit of comradeship back. Comradeship that was there during the eras of Hassan Omar, Mama Rainbow, and the likes of Garang. Comradeship that wouldn’t allow a section of the students suffer in the hands of the administration while the majorities just watch.
Of importance again is the dilapidated state of the institution’s infrastructure, from the hostels to the lecture halls. However hard it might prove to be, the next SGC must not relent to push for renovation and maintenance of these buildings.
The issue of planning the academic calendars and the official communication of the reporting dates is a critical and an urgent one and calls for a MUSO office that will be caring and fierce enough to force the administration to be releasing the dates moths before and not the last minute. Students are tired with unplanned impromptu further notices.
Perhaps the biggest threat facing MUSO is corruption, misappropriation of funds, overriding self interests and disunity in the SGC -politics of my docket’. This destroys the capacity of the leaders we elect to serve us.
The leaders we need are not the ones that ride tribalism to power and nurturing it to eat to the fullest. We need leaders who will put the students’ interest first.
Students are encouraged to question aspirants on this agenda. Those who have nothing concrete do not belong in leadership. This election is a game-changer. But only if it is about issues and not personalities.
Friday, August 9, 2013
A UNIQUE ELECTION: ELDERS WILL WATCH TODDLERS PLAY
By Kinyua Njeri
The oncoming MUSO elections will perhaps be the most unique and awkward too. It is an election that has been delayed since September last year when the Dean of Students ruled to fatten the tenure of the 26th SGC by adding them yet another academic year in office.
And though the elections were to be held between March and May this year, as per the Dean's decision, efforts by student-activists to have the word honoured seemed more fictious than real.
Again, this election will be unique in that it'll be amongst the few
that has been held with some groups in absentia. Half of the 1st
years, to whom the Assistant Secretary General's slot normally goes,will be out of session and this might see a 'very old' continuing student rise to the position.
As if that's not enough, this election will be meant to scrap out the
26th SGC, which has notoriously been branded as the longest serving SGC. I'd have wished to let you know how the directors have the pride of owning shops and emaciating the MUSO kitty, but I leave it for some other day.
It'll be an election to 'exit' Doghana's government, which will go
down as one of the most sterile SGC's MUSO has ever had. Though the academic calendar hit their efforts hard, they were expected to be better, if the oratoric and eloquent speeches they gave at the cross-fire is anything to go by.
Well, most important of all, the fact that 4th Years will not vie
during these elections makes it one of the most peculiar. My father (I don't know him even) once told me that when an elder sits at his stool under the family tree, he sees farther than a boy who's on top of the tree. I don't know how true the statement is, but the man 'was' thoughtful.
In these elections however, the elders will have to sit, relax and
watch 'toddlers' play.
The oncoming MUSO elections will perhaps be the most unique and awkward too. It is an election that has been delayed since September last year when the Dean of Students ruled to fatten the tenure of the 26th SGC by adding them yet another academic year in office.
And though the elections were to be held between March and May this year, as per the Dean's decision, efforts by student-activists to have the word honoured seemed more fictious than real.
Again, this election will be unique in that it'll be amongst the few
that has been held with some groups in absentia. Half of the 1st
years, to whom the Assistant Secretary General's slot normally goes,will be out of session and this might see a 'very old' continuing student rise to the position.
As if that's not enough, this election will be meant to scrap out the
26th SGC, which has notoriously been branded as the longest serving SGC. I'd have wished to let you know how the directors have the pride of owning shops and emaciating the MUSO kitty, but I leave it for some other day.
It'll be an election to 'exit' Doghana's government, which will go
down as one of the most sterile SGC's MUSO has ever had. Though the academic calendar hit their efforts hard, they were expected to be better, if the oratoric and eloquent speeches they gave at the cross-fire is anything to go by.
Well, most important of all, the fact that 4th Years will not vie
during these elections makes it one of the most peculiar. My father (I don't know him even) once told me that when an elder sits at his stool under the family tree, he sees farther than a boy who's on top of the tree. I don't know how true the statement is, but the man 'was' thoughtful.
In these elections however, the elders will have to sit, relax and
watch 'toddlers' play.
MOI UNIVERSITY TO HOST MOST JOINT ADMISSIONS BOARD STUDENTS
Moi University will admit the highest number of students at 5,792, followed closely by the University of Nairobi at 5,496 and Kenyatta University at 5,491 in their new intakes, the Joint Admissions Board (JAB) has announced.
About 53,135 students who sat last year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination will join public universities this year.
“Each university will contact its admitted candidates directly and advise them on reporting dates and procedures,” said Jab acting chairperson and Maseno University Vice-Chancellor Prof D W Makawiti Thursday after the board held its final meeting.
Egerton University will admit 3,500 students in various disciplines while Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology will admit 2,151 students. Maseno University will admit 3,096 students while Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology will admit 2,176 students.
Technical University of Kenya will admit 1,778 students, Pwani University 748, while Dedan Kimathi University of Technology will admit 1,012. Technical University of Mombasa will admit 864 students, Chuka University will 1,731 students and Kisii university is expected to admit 1,060 students.
Maasai Mara University and Meru University of Science and Technology will admit 1,258 and 808 respectively.
The University of Kabianga will admit 1,418, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology will admit 1,156 students and South Eastern Kenya University, 1,646. Multimedia University of Kenya will admit 745, Laikipia University, 1,680 and Karatina University, 1,740.
FRESH INTAKE
The University of Eldoret will admit 2,923 students while Taita Taveta University College will admit 505 students in its first intake.
Muranga University College will admit 233 students while Kirinyaga University College will receive 322 students. The Cooperative University College of Kenya will admit 382 while Kibabii University College will receive 759.
Garissa University College will admit 722 students while Rongo University College will receive 1,136 students. Embu University College will admit 384 and Machakos University College will register 423 students. Each candidate who met the board’s cut-off criteria may access their admission information through its website www.jab.uonbi.ac.ke.
Adapted from http://www.standardmedia.co.ke
About 53,135 students who sat last year’s Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination will join public universities this year.
“Each university will contact its admitted candidates directly and advise them on reporting dates and procedures,” said Jab acting chairperson and Maseno University Vice-Chancellor Prof D W Makawiti Thursday after the board held its final meeting.
Egerton University will admit 3,500 students in various disciplines while Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology will admit 2,151 students. Maseno University will admit 3,096 students while Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology will admit 2,176 students.
Technical University of Kenya will admit 1,778 students, Pwani University 748, while Dedan Kimathi University of Technology will admit 1,012. Technical University of Mombasa will admit 864 students, Chuka University will 1,731 students and Kisii university is expected to admit 1,060 students.
Maasai Mara University and Meru University of Science and Technology will admit 1,258 and 808 respectively.
The University of Kabianga will admit 1,418, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology will admit 1,156 students and South Eastern Kenya University, 1,646. Multimedia University of Kenya will admit 745, Laikipia University, 1,680 and Karatina University, 1,740.
FRESH INTAKE
The University of Eldoret will admit 2,923 students while Taita Taveta University College will admit 505 students in its first intake.
Muranga University College will admit 233 students while Kirinyaga University College will receive 322 students. The Cooperative University College of Kenya will admit 382 while Kibabii University College will receive 759.
Garissa University College will admit 722 students while Rongo University College will receive 1,136 students. Embu University College will admit 384 and Machakos University College will register 423 students. Each candidate who met the board’s cut-off criteria may access their admission information through its website www.jab.uonbi.ac.ke.
Adapted from http://www.standardmedia.co.ke
Thursday, August 8, 2013
WHAT EXACTLY DO READERS WANT?
By James Kombe
It is said that a writer remains blind to how his/her readers react to the text until they finally respond. I agree. The diversity of audience surely makes it hard to at least make a guess regarding the same. After all, different people consume similar pieces of information for different purposes – some to get informed, for leisure, to criticize – just to mention a few.
However, I have personally come to realize that there are a few ‘funny’ responses that one ought to be prepared for, especially while writing for such a vibrant forum as ‘Moi University Press Club, The Third Eye’. If you want to believe this, take some time, go through some of the comments made for stories posted in this fan page. Trust me; you might not stop laughing, at least for a while! You will come across comments that you least expected. That is what I normally do sometimes when I am depressed.
As I write this piece, I constantly refer back to its beginning, just to confirm that it is still a short one. Some comrades seem not to be in love with long text pieces. They have no time for them, whether or not they have something else to do. “I can’t read all this…” “This is too long…” “Can someone summarize this for me…?” are some of the complaints that I want to avoid now. So trust me, this won’t be ‘too long’ for you.
Allow me to restate one or two replies for a news story that I came across sometimes back. Someone, after reading the online post, just said, “e.t.c” Another one wrote, “Blah blah blah!” I did not really understand what they meant until I asked one of them, who said, “Ok, I read the story and understood it. I simply had nothing serious to say about it, I just wanted to submit a comment.”
Well, I promised you that I was going to keep this one short. For that matter, let me disregard all the other paragraphs that I am yet to type, so that I can sum up with the question of, ‘What exactly do readers want?’
It is said that a writer remains blind to how his/her readers react to the text until they finally respond. I agree. The diversity of audience surely makes it hard to at least make a guess regarding the same. After all, different people consume similar pieces of information for different purposes – some to get informed, for leisure, to criticize – just to mention a few.
However, I have personally come to realize that there are a few ‘funny’ responses that one ought to be prepared for, especially while writing for such a vibrant forum as ‘Moi University Press Club, The Third Eye’. If you want to believe this, take some time, go through some of the comments made for stories posted in this fan page. Trust me; you might not stop laughing, at least for a while! You will come across comments that you least expected. That is what I normally do sometimes when I am depressed.
As I write this piece, I constantly refer back to its beginning, just to confirm that it is still a short one. Some comrades seem not to be in love with long text pieces. They have no time for them, whether or not they have something else to do. “I can’t read all this…” “This is too long…” “Can someone summarize this for me…?” are some of the complaints that I want to avoid now. So trust me, this won’t be ‘too long’ for you.
Allow me to restate one or two replies for a news story that I came across sometimes back. Someone, after reading the online post, just said, “e.t.c” Another one wrote, “Blah blah blah!” I did not really understand what they meant until I asked one of them, who said, “Ok, I read the story and understood it. I simply had nothing serious to say about it, I just wanted to submit a comment.”
Well, I promised you that I was going to keep this one short. For that matter, let me disregard all the other paragraphs that I am yet to type, so that I can sum up with the question of, ‘What exactly do readers want?’
THE MUSO BATTLE
By Elvis M. Nyakreal
August 2013, a month like no other in this university with the longest serving dean of students in East and Central Africa also fondly referred to as the university with a difference. It is a month of ‘hot’ politics. Terms such as “comrades’ power!” will soon be the fashion in every corner of main campus. The never to be promises, propaganda, critics, student activists rackets and insults will be ringing in our ears.
For first years and some second years who have never participated in campus elections, this will be a defining moment. My friend Sheila Serser reminds me that I should inform the first years to be prepared for endless knocks on their doors by the door-to-door campaigners. George, the boy from the lake side who calls himself “Senior Counsel” also tells me that the only way to avoid going sleepless nights during this political time is to find a marker pen and write on your door “PLEASE COME TOMORROW.”
Various aspirants among them being Titus Kisangau, Kipsaro Arab Boit, Sam Ogutu, Jeff Kenyatta and Bush have already decided that they will contest for the MUSO chairman docket. Some of the female students who have brought a touch to this battle include Journalist Parcie, Delicate, and Angie.
Unusually, the campus Mutahi Ngunyi’s have already predicted who will clinch the most powerful docket in MUSO, however, one of the best serving student leader- Mwamburi Mwangombe’s reminds me that, in main campus there is nothing like tyranny of numbers. I am yet to agree with him.
Well, for those aspiring to be student leaders, be prepared to meet the master of students. Be prepared to hear statements like “the university has no money, the previous MUSO left behind a debt of 10 million which I am struggling to pay.”
Nyamweya one of 3rd eye’s grandfathers will tell you, “walio na masiko wasikie.”
August 2013, a month like no other in this university with the longest serving dean of students in East and Central Africa also fondly referred to as the university with a difference. It is a month of ‘hot’ politics. Terms such as “comrades’ power!” will soon be the fashion in every corner of main campus. The never to be promises, propaganda, critics, student activists rackets and insults will be ringing in our ears.
For first years and some second years who have never participated in campus elections, this will be a defining moment. My friend Sheila Serser reminds me that I should inform the first years to be prepared for endless knocks on their doors by the door-to-door campaigners. George, the boy from the lake side who calls himself “Senior Counsel” also tells me that the only way to avoid going sleepless nights during this political time is to find a marker pen and write on your door “PLEASE COME TOMORROW.”
Various aspirants among them being Titus Kisangau, Kipsaro Arab Boit, Sam Ogutu, Jeff Kenyatta and Bush have already decided that they will contest for the MUSO chairman docket. Some of the female students who have brought a touch to this battle include Journalist Parcie, Delicate, and Angie.
Unusually, the campus Mutahi Ngunyi’s have already predicted who will clinch the most powerful docket in MUSO, however, one of the best serving student leader- Mwamburi Mwangombe’s reminds me that, in main campus there is nothing like tyranny of numbers. I am yet to agree with him.
Well, for those aspiring to be student leaders, be prepared to meet the master of students. Be prepared to hear statements like “the university has no money, the previous MUSO left behind a debt of 10 million which I am struggling to pay.”
Nyamweya one of 3rd eye’s grandfathers will tell you, “walio na masiko wasikie.”
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
WHEN DIKEMBE COMES BACK... (The Shamba Boy series)
By Maalim Salat
When Dikembe comes back from the land of Obama, I will have so much to tell him that he will never dream of going back to that land of white skinned human beings. I see the Americans as people with burnt skin because in the village where I come from, there is no white human being. None of the elders ever talked of human beings with white skin except those men who were burnt by their wives when the husband sees the bahali yake of another woman. However, I have gone to school and learnt that people who use dollars to buy omena develop white skin.
When Dikembe comes back, I will tell him how the My University has transformed from analogue to Uhuruto. I will take him to Hostel-A where I live with some of my village mates. I will make him a cup of tea and a glass of maziwa ya ngamia before telling him about our new deputy headmaster who forced us to enter the hostels through laptops. You see, these days you do not need to have a capital-T at the end of your name to get a room. There is no need to smile at janitors in order to get a room. All you need is to have the computer that can be folded and I you do not have one, kuna nafasi stage.
I got a very beautiful room in Hostel-A because I happened to get to have the computer that can be folded which can only be found in the university, at least according to my family in the village. Let me take you back to the extra-long holiday that we went for. Before I went for the holiday, I decided to get a second-hand laptop from a reformed goon in the name of Macharia at a cheap price on condition that I vote for him when we return. Next week, I will tell you how all the girls in the village wanted me for a husband when I showed them the miracles my laptop, the computer that can only be found in the yolofasity, could do.
When Dikembe comes back, I will tell him how I entered my room through the laptop and never produced my ID at some of the offices to prove that I have capital-T at the end of my name.
I will also tell Dikembe how I wanted to become the chairman of the My Univerisity Shop Owners (MUSO) and how my dream was thwarted by a section of those who went to Nakuru last year to get us HELB which is found in Nairobi. If I were to become the chairman of the shop owners, I would have transformed the administration block into a hostel so that those living in diaspora can have a place to call home. The guys from Nakuru convinced the dean that I do not deserve to own a shop.
I will tell Dikembe about the about the people who are competing to get the shops and go to America next year. I will tell him of our future Doghanas with some names that sound like Nyefnyef Kenyatta and Titus Nyang’au. There is also another one but if I mention his name here, I will find my mass at the senate. It sounds that weird.
I will also take him to the School of Human Resource Development, that place where journalists are trained without a radio to practice with, and show him the fixed seats at the hall where he and I once listened to boring lectures and wrote notes on our laps. That is why we walk the same style with bent backs.
Before he gets up and thanks me for the maziwa ya ngamia, (it will sound like thenk yew because he is from America) I will ask him the final question which is about whether he changed his name from Dikembe to Johnson Dikindizi.
Don’t miss the humour every Wednesday.
When Dikembe comes back from the land of Obama, I will have so much to tell him that he will never dream of going back to that land of white skinned human beings. I see the Americans as people with burnt skin because in the village where I come from, there is no white human being. None of the elders ever talked of human beings with white skin except those men who were burnt by their wives when the husband sees the bahali yake of another woman. However, I have gone to school and learnt that people who use dollars to buy omena develop white skin.
When Dikembe comes back, I will tell him how the My University has transformed from analogue to Uhuruto. I will take him to Hostel-A where I live with some of my village mates. I will make him a cup of tea and a glass of maziwa ya ngamia before telling him about our new deputy headmaster who forced us to enter the hostels through laptops. You see, these days you do not need to have a capital-T at the end of your name to get a room. There is no need to smile at janitors in order to get a room. All you need is to have the computer that can be folded and I you do not have one, kuna nafasi stage.
I got a very beautiful room in Hostel-A because I happened to get to have the computer that can be folded which can only be found in the university, at least according to my family in the village. Let me take you back to the extra-long holiday that we went for. Before I went for the holiday, I decided to get a second-hand laptop from a reformed goon in the name of Macharia at a cheap price on condition that I vote for him when we return. Next week, I will tell you how all the girls in the village wanted me for a husband when I showed them the miracles my laptop, the computer that can only be found in the yolofasity, could do.
When Dikembe comes back, I will tell him how I entered my room through the laptop and never produced my ID at some of the offices to prove that I have capital-T at the end of my name.
I will also tell Dikembe how I wanted to become the chairman of the My Univerisity Shop Owners (MUSO) and how my dream was thwarted by a section of those who went to Nakuru last year to get us HELB which is found in Nairobi. If I were to become the chairman of the shop owners, I would have transformed the administration block into a hostel so that those living in diaspora can have a place to call home. The guys from Nakuru convinced the dean that I do not deserve to own a shop.
I will tell Dikembe about the about the people who are competing to get the shops and go to America next year. I will tell him of our future Doghanas with some names that sound like Nyefnyef Kenyatta and Titus Nyang’au. There is also another one but if I mention his name here, I will find my mass at the senate. It sounds that weird.
I will also take him to the School of Human Resource Development, that place where journalists are trained without a radio to practice with, and show him the fixed seats at the hall where he and I once listened to boring lectures and wrote notes on our laps. That is why we walk the same style with bent backs.
Before he gets up and thanks me for the maziwa ya ngamia, (it will sound like thenk yew because he is from America) I will ask him the final question which is about whether he changed his name from Dikembe to Johnson Dikindizi.
Don’t miss the humour every Wednesday.
Monday, August 5, 2013
MUSO ASPIRANTS: IGNORE SOCIAL MEDIA AT YOUR OWN PERIL
By Mohammed Doyo
It is indisputable, social media is the next platform for successful political campaigns. Going by the recent March 4 elections, a lot happened in social media networks. Both CORD and JUBILEE alliances invested millions in their social media campaigns to drive their agendas to the masses.
Uncountable Facebook pages and groups were created, influential people on social media were hired by the competing factions and so were bloggers and propagandists. By the end of the frenzied elections, Jubilee alliance emerged victors. While there may be other reasons for the win, a section of communication scholars attributed the Jubilee victory to a good communication strategy.
The same scenario was witnessed during the 2012 USA presidential campaigns where the sitting president Barack Obama, despite the growing resentment on his economic policies during his first term in office easily triumphed over the Republican candidate Mitt Romney. Political analysts to a certain extent attributed his win to an excellent use of the interactive new media to woo supporters.
A Key analysis of MUSO’s electoral process in the past and the current climate will inform the belief that the upcoming elections may end up being the most heated and dramatic ever in the history of the Union. While no one can predict with certainty what exactly would be the outcome, it is clear that social media will play a pivotal role in driving messages and will be a huge battle ground in the forthcoming students’ elections.
Why will Social media be crucial during the upcoming 2013 MUSO elections?
Majority of university students are tech savvy and well informed. Almost every single student owns at least one of these: Twitter, facebook, whatsapp or a blog where they discuss ideas and share what is in their mind or what is happening. In Main Campus context, a close look at one of the popular pages- The 3rd Eye reveals that main campus students have embraced the new age media. A single post in the page that has over 20,000 likes attracts at least 10,000 views!
Aspirants must therefore come up with a good social media strategy if they are to remain relevant in this tough race. And speaking of good social media strategy, it doesn’t just involve opening up of facebook pages and groups and posting political messages while adding members randomly and haphazardly. It is more than this. The content of these interactive media must well thought of, audience friendly and thought provoking. It must capture the aspirations of the comrades while at the same time invoke questions and constructive debates among students.
Into the bargain, having a team of social media campaigners is fundamental. This team effectively answers all questions from the comrades, makes updates in popular groups and pages, and persuades comrades into identifying with the aspirant while tackling character-assassinating propaganda that might emerge in the course of campaigns. Use of graphical representation, images to explain policies is a boost to the social media campaign.
Advertising in popular pages that have huge fan bases is advisable too. These adverts are able to reach the masses at the comfort of their rooms. Students can effortlessly tell what an aspirant stands for.
However, this doesn’t mean the traditional avenues such as use of posters, banners, Door-to door campaigns, forums on the ‘ground’, crossfire, Kamukunjis and barazas will be less important. No! A successful campaign strategy is one that is able to effectively use social media alongside the aforementioned avenues.
It is indisputable, social media is the next platform for successful political campaigns. Going by the recent March 4 elections, a lot happened in social media networks. Both CORD and JUBILEE alliances invested millions in their social media campaigns to drive their agendas to the masses.
Uncountable Facebook pages and groups were created, influential people on social media were hired by the competing factions and so were bloggers and propagandists. By the end of the frenzied elections, Jubilee alliance emerged victors. While there may be other reasons for the win, a section of communication scholars attributed the Jubilee victory to a good communication strategy.
The same scenario was witnessed during the 2012 USA presidential campaigns where the sitting president Barack Obama, despite the growing resentment on his economic policies during his first term in office easily triumphed over the Republican candidate Mitt Romney. Political analysts to a certain extent attributed his win to an excellent use of the interactive new media to woo supporters.
A Key analysis of MUSO’s electoral process in the past and the current climate will inform the belief that the upcoming elections may end up being the most heated and dramatic ever in the history of the Union. While no one can predict with certainty what exactly would be the outcome, it is clear that social media will play a pivotal role in driving messages and will be a huge battle ground in the forthcoming students’ elections.
Why will Social media be crucial during the upcoming 2013 MUSO elections?
Majority of university students are tech savvy and well informed. Almost every single student owns at least one of these: Twitter, facebook, whatsapp or a blog where they discuss ideas and share what is in their mind or what is happening. In Main Campus context, a close look at one of the popular pages- The 3rd Eye reveals that main campus students have embraced the new age media. A single post in the page that has over 20,000 likes attracts at least 10,000 views!
Aspirants must therefore come up with a good social media strategy if they are to remain relevant in this tough race. And speaking of good social media strategy, it doesn’t just involve opening up of facebook pages and groups and posting political messages while adding members randomly and haphazardly. It is more than this. The content of these interactive media must well thought of, audience friendly and thought provoking. It must capture the aspirations of the comrades while at the same time invoke questions and constructive debates among students.
Into the bargain, having a team of social media campaigners is fundamental. This team effectively answers all questions from the comrades, makes updates in popular groups and pages, and persuades comrades into identifying with the aspirant while tackling character-assassinating propaganda that might emerge in the course of campaigns. Use of graphical representation, images to explain policies is a boost to the social media campaign.
Advertising in popular pages that have huge fan bases is advisable too. These adverts are able to reach the masses at the comfort of their rooms. Students can effortlessly tell what an aspirant stands for.
However, this doesn’t mean the traditional avenues such as use of posters, banners, Door-to door campaigns, forums on the ‘ground’, crossfire, Kamukunjis and barazas will be less important. No! A successful campaign strategy is one that is able to effectively use social media alongside the aforementioned avenues.
Sunday, August 4, 2013
I CALL IT DOWNRIGHT LOGIC!
By Timothy Simwa
As we continue to grapple with the Kenyan curriculum of education that has been condemned of being devoid of the basic essentials that education in developed countries encompass, voluminous files of review commissions on education continue to gather dust in our national archives. (Just as many other reports with the latest but already mutilated TJRC report to exonerate the untouchable just as our culture of freeing the big fish demands.) Grave issues remain unsettled.
In the recent past, Kenyans have woken up to news of at least three satellite colleges that underwent an overnight evolution to become fully-fledged universities. While you might view it a plus to whoever does this, you are probably not giving it a critical evaluation or you are a continuing undergraduate who ostensibly has no idea of what lurks in the world of tarmacking for public university graduates. I blame it on popular politics, flicks and tricks that are now playing a role in our education spheres.
The sector's role in realizing a transformed society (in Kenya we call it vision 2030) cannot be underestimated but it remains crystal clear that roadside declarations by the head of state, or any other mandarin who matters in our worshipped political structures, is uncalled for in our education systems .Such moves have seen village polytechnics transform overnight to become universities. This is what I term as downright and warped logic as a way of empowering our people education-wise.
I watch in amazement as pundits succumb to pressure of locals in political rallies to establish a university within their walking-distance even when KCSE statistics reveal the whole districts had only a dozen students making it to public universities albeit the harmonized threshold by the Joint Admission Board.
Notably the head of state, particularly during the coalition regime, was characterized by institutions mushrooming in tremendous numbers. Under the same reign, as if it was a succession of awards from the head of state, we saw a number of districts upsurge to over 160 maybe to create opportunities for employing DOs as part of the 500 thousand job creation strategy plan in a year. Then followed the number of universities. Interesting enough their children read about our institutions in the newspaper from the diaspora.
Yes,we all endeavour to create a society where everyone is learned and accessing education isn't an uphill task as it has been for the have nots. But in the same breath, an education system 50 years old down the lane that has very little to salute is doomed.
The appalling conditions that describe our lives as Kenyans is enough evidence that introducing the luxury of laptops for standard one kids in our crippled education system is a rib-tickling joke. What good does it serve to a child who comes to school with an empty stomach, barefooted, in torn uniform repaired beyond repair and of course a yawning teacher whose peanuts increment treaty signed 15 years ago has not been effected leaving their situation is laughably hopeless.
If the few public universities still do not produce graduates to beat the competitive job market then average reasoning informs that creating 160 varsities to match the moribund 160 districts is disastrous. Instead of consolidating the few we have to realize hybrid graduates than the half-baked type as we are described, and of course tackle the problems bred by the crash program. Pundits in the sector continue to enjoy office slumber as we languish below their noses.
But despite this subjugation, I delight in the enthusiasm with which we remain steadfast in this struggle to refute the appellation of suffering creativity bankruptcy as public university graduates.All we need is a million dollar determination. We will overcome
The writer is a 3rd year journalism student.
As we continue to grapple with the Kenyan curriculum of education that has been condemned of being devoid of the basic essentials that education in developed countries encompass, voluminous files of review commissions on education continue to gather dust in our national archives. (Just as many other reports with the latest but already mutilated TJRC report to exonerate the untouchable just as our culture of freeing the big fish demands.) Grave issues remain unsettled.
In the recent past, Kenyans have woken up to news of at least three satellite colleges that underwent an overnight evolution to become fully-fledged universities. While you might view it a plus to whoever does this, you are probably not giving it a critical evaluation or you are a continuing undergraduate who ostensibly has no idea of what lurks in the world of tarmacking for public university graduates. I blame it on popular politics, flicks and tricks that are now playing a role in our education spheres.
The sector's role in realizing a transformed society (in Kenya we call it vision 2030) cannot be underestimated but it remains crystal clear that roadside declarations by the head of state, or any other mandarin who matters in our worshipped political structures, is uncalled for in our education systems .Such moves have seen village polytechnics transform overnight to become universities. This is what I term as downright and warped logic as a way of empowering our people education-wise.
I watch in amazement as pundits succumb to pressure of locals in political rallies to establish a university within their walking-distance even when KCSE statistics reveal the whole districts had only a dozen students making it to public universities albeit the harmonized threshold by the Joint Admission Board.
Notably the head of state, particularly during the coalition regime, was characterized by institutions mushrooming in tremendous numbers. Under the same reign, as if it was a succession of awards from the head of state, we saw a number of districts upsurge to over 160 maybe to create opportunities for employing DOs as part of the 500 thousand job creation strategy plan in a year. Then followed the number of universities. Interesting enough their children read about our institutions in the newspaper from the diaspora.
Yes,we all endeavour to create a society where everyone is learned and accessing education isn't an uphill task as it has been for the have nots. But in the same breath, an education system 50 years old down the lane that has very little to salute is doomed.
The appalling conditions that describe our lives as Kenyans is enough evidence that introducing the luxury of laptops for standard one kids in our crippled education system is a rib-tickling joke. What good does it serve to a child who comes to school with an empty stomach, barefooted, in torn uniform repaired beyond repair and of course a yawning teacher whose peanuts increment treaty signed 15 years ago has not been effected leaving their situation is laughably hopeless.
If the few public universities still do not produce graduates to beat the competitive job market then average reasoning informs that creating 160 varsities to match the moribund 160 districts is disastrous. Instead of consolidating the few we have to realize hybrid graduates than the half-baked type as we are described, and of course tackle the problems bred by the crash program. Pundits in the sector continue to enjoy office slumber as we languish below their noses.
But despite this subjugation, I delight in the enthusiasm with which we remain steadfast in this struggle to refute the appellation of suffering creativity bankruptcy as public university graduates.All we need is a million dollar determination. We will overcome
The writer is a 3rd year journalism student.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
ADMINISTRATION: CLASS OF ’09 TO GRADUATE IN DECEMBER NOT AUGUST
By Mohammed Doyo and Remington Galo
The University administration has finally cleared the air over the groups that will be graduating later this month. Fourth years students who cleared school on 12th July 2013 will not be part of the forthcoming 29th graduation set to happen on 30th August.
“The upcoming graduation will involve students, drawn from all the University’s campuses, who failed to graduate in previous years because of various reasons” clarified Ms. Harriet Ramogi, an administrator in the office of DVC Academics, Research and Extension.
“Every year, students fail to graduate due to fee issues, missing marks, clearance issues among other factors. The 29th graduation will thus have a smaller number of graduates compared to past graduations”, She added.
The fourth years (Class of 2009) are set to graduate in December.
“The class of ’09 will most likely graduate in December after we are done with marking exams and compiling them” said Dr. Menjo, the Principal Administrative Officer in charge of Examinations.
“It is unrealistic to expect fourth years who cleared their final exams on mid July to graduate after one month” added the Officer.
This clarification follows information that was earlier posted in the university’s website that 29th graduation is set to take place on 30th August this year. However, the university had not specified the campus or the groups that were set to graduate
The University administration has finally cleared the air over the groups that will be graduating later this month. Fourth years students who cleared school on 12th July 2013 will not be part of the forthcoming 29th graduation set to happen on 30th August.
“The upcoming graduation will involve students, drawn from all the University’s campuses, who failed to graduate in previous years because of various reasons” clarified Ms. Harriet Ramogi, an administrator in the office of DVC Academics, Research and Extension.
“Every year, students fail to graduate due to fee issues, missing marks, clearance issues among other factors. The 29th graduation will thus have a smaller number of graduates compared to past graduations”, She added.
The fourth years (Class of 2009) are set to graduate in December.
“The class of ’09 will most likely graduate in December after we are done with marking exams and compiling them” said Dr. Menjo, the Principal Administrative Officer in charge of Examinations.
“It is unrealistic to expect fourth years who cleared their final exams on mid July to graduate after one month” added the Officer.
This clarification follows information that was earlier posted in the university’s website that 29th graduation is set to take place on 30th August this year. However, the university had not specified the campus or the groups that were set to graduate
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
YES THERE WERE FAILURES; BUT OF WHO, WHEN, WHERE AND HOW? (Right of Reply)
By Dikembe Disembe
Mohammed Doyo, probably with hindsight, has attempted to put words on my time as the Secretary General. Cautiously, he has navigated one of the hardest experiences of any journalist: To objectively write about a friend.
Truth is, when I actively served in Muso, which is during the first part of the academic year 2013/14; two things shaped the operations of MUSO.
First was the external politics within the larger student body. Can anyone recall my first actions when I got in? I guess not. Here it is: I wanted us to accommodate more students within the university halls. I wanted the so called 'senior hostels' decked and the thousand 'unknown students' housed in 'shanties' at Blue gate and whatnot brought in. This failed, but was it my failure? Later, until now, one of the most hurtful things to students has been on the area of accommodation.
Back then, people told me to concentrate on "my docket", which, in MUSO parlance, meant to do those functions explicitly stated for the Sec Gen. Who were these people? Doyo only needs to go back there and you will be shocked by the names. You see, I got into MUSO in spite of (without) the endorsements of so many people. The students who voted me in were moderate, unknown and very 'silent' group. They just came, voted and left.
Often, the people whose names appear in any political discussions in Main Campus do not need student leaders to navigate the murky waters of institutional bureaucracies; in fact, many of them are part of the system; and its problems. Ever heard that, say, Allan Wadi, missed a room? Or my friend Kobilo? You see, to them; student politics is just a showbiz. A game. They know nothing about living Kilometers away from the library or lecture halls. They just imagine it.
Doyo highlights four failures (though this number is being contested as too less) on my work. First, that I had a tussle with one Salat which I took to the Dean for resolution. Two, that I 'did little' to achieve a new constitution. Three, that I owned a shop; and four that I concentrated too much on national politics and 'neglected' MUSO politics.
But, just as all journalists do, Doyo, who seems to be too lenient on a friend, left it for each comrade to agree or disagree with his observations. I have seen the debate and the feedback; and it humbles to know what people think of you.
I wish, however, to respond to the question of the MUSO constitution. Until last week, I did not know that a clique of students led by one George Bush were again engaged in writing a "new constitution"; and that over Ksh 70,000 went into that activity. I can't wait for crossfire! But I digress.
While Doyo says I did very little (at least he appreciates I did something; which was 'very little'); he does not say what was this that I did: Here it is.
Throughout the whole year, the university Chief Legal Officer, Ms Sinani, was engaged in the vetting of the judges and magistrates. She was on a sabbatical leave. Now, any student who understands legal framework on which Moi University was established will tell you that no document can ever be declared in use in Moi University without the input of the Chief Legal Officer. I made countless attempts to have this lady endorse the constitution until I realized it was never going to happen. What would you have done?
On my tiff with Salat, a classmate; I have this: Morality, especially sexual morality; is a very personal issue. Salat knew that nothing infuriates me more than an awefully false accusation on "sleeping with women around", yet that is what he wrote about me. As a man, it will be stupid to deny my vitality on matters procreational; but, as a student leader, I always made a point to stick with the same muso 'gal' am still dating-and yes, she took Salat's article with a pinch of salt; accepted it and we moved on!
Suffice to say, after the noise went down, Salat, a practising muslim, made a point and apologized to me over it. We ended it.
People can talk about my failures day on end but there are things they will never dare talk about: No one will dare say they obstructed so many of my initial ideas of what strengthening MUSO entailed. As the Secretary General; I have put the name of MUSO in the best of places;and events in this world! And just don't forget; am penning this piece from two oceans away!
Lastly, for the incoming SG, and i'm glad the position has attracted the highest number, though majority are jokers, I have this for you: Stepping in my shoes won't be easy, but, TRY anyway! Forget the low politics of shops and sex; MUSO is bigger than the little sideshows of who poisoned who, where, why and how.
The writer is the outgoing MUSO Secretary General, currently on an exchange programme at Miami University, US
Mohammed Doyo, probably with hindsight, has attempted to put words on my time as the Secretary General. Cautiously, he has navigated one of the hardest experiences of any journalist: To objectively write about a friend.
Truth is, when I actively served in Muso, which is during the first part of the academic year 2013/14; two things shaped the operations of MUSO.
First was the external politics within the larger student body. Can anyone recall my first actions when I got in? I guess not. Here it is: I wanted us to accommodate more students within the university halls. I wanted the so called 'senior hostels' decked and the thousand 'unknown students' housed in 'shanties' at Blue gate and whatnot brought in. This failed, but was it my failure? Later, until now, one of the most hurtful things to students has been on the area of accommodation.
Back then, people told me to concentrate on "my docket", which, in MUSO parlance, meant to do those functions explicitly stated for the Sec Gen. Who were these people? Doyo only needs to go back there and you will be shocked by the names. You see, I got into MUSO in spite of (without) the endorsements of so many people. The students who voted me in were moderate, unknown and very 'silent' group. They just came, voted and left.
Often, the people whose names appear in any political discussions in Main Campus do not need student leaders to navigate the murky waters of institutional bureaucracies; in fact, many of them are part of the system; and its problems. Ever heard that, say, Allan Wadi, missed a room? Or my friend Kobilo? You see, to them; student politics is just a showbiz. A game. They know nothing about living Kilometers away from the library or lecture halls. They just imagine it.
Doyo highlights four failures (though this number is being contested as too less) on my work. First, that I had a tussle with one Salat which I took to the Dean for resolution. Two, that I 'did little' to achieve a new constitution. Three, that I owned a shop; and four that I concentrated too much on national politics and 'neglected' MUSO politics.
But, just as all journalists do, Doyo, who seems to be too lenient on a friend, left it for each comrade to agree or disagree with his observations. I have seen the debate and the feedback; and it humbles to know what people think of you.
I wish, however, to respond to the question of the MUSO constitution. Until last week, I did not know that a clique of students led by one George Bush were again engaged in writing a "new constitution"; and that over Ksh 70,000 went into that activity. I can't wait for crossfire! But I digress.
While Doyo says I did very little (at least he appreciates I did something; which was 'very little'); he does not say what was this that I did: Here it is.
Throughout the whole year, the university Chief Legal Officer, Ms Sinani, was engaged in the vetting of the judges and magistrates. She was on a sabbatical leave. Now, any student who understands legal framework on which Moi University was established will tell you that no document can ever be declared in use in Moi University without the input of the Chief Legal Officer. I made countless attempts to have this lady endorse the constitution until I realized it was never going to happen. What would you have done?
On my tiff with Salat, a classmate; I have this: Morality, especially sexual morality; is a very personal issue. Salat knew that nothing infuriates me more than an awefully false accusation on "sleeping with women around", yet that is what he wrote about me. As a man, it will be stupid to deny my vitality on matters procreational; but, as a student leader, I always made a point to stick with the same muso 'gal' am still dating-and yes, she took Salat's article with a pinch of salt; accepted it and we moved on!
Suffice to say, after the noise went down, Salat, a practising muslim, made a point and apologized to me over it. We ended it.
People can talk about my failures day on end but there are things they will never dare talk about: No one will dare say they obstructed so many of my initial ideas of what strengthening MUSO entailed. As the Secretary General; I have put the name of MUSO in the best of places;and events in this world! And just don't forget; am penning this piece from two oceans away!
Lastly, for the incoming SG, and i'm glad the position has attracted the highest number, though majority are jokers, I have this for you: Stepping in my shoes won't be easy, but, TRY anyway! Forget the low politics of shops and sex; MUSO is bigger than the little sideshows of who poisoned who, where, why and how.
The writer is the outgoing MUSO Secretary General, currently on an exchange programme at Miami University, US
FOURTH YEAR STUDENTS CHOOSE SEC OVER VYING IN COMING ELECTIONS
By Tony Irungu
The current fourth years have sacrificed their leadership quest to join the 27th SGC over an opportunity to serve in the SEC (students’ electoral commission). This comes after a politically charged meeting held yesterday (Tuesday 30th) afternoon attended by a cross section of the current fourth years and the dean of students.
The group resolved to form the SEC under the condition that 3 posts be reserved for the fourth years which will be filled through competitive elections and also to be represented and consulted in all issues pertaining MUSO.
The agreement, ratified by the dean of students and the students present had a provision for a caretaker committee to be constituted during the 2nd semester when some of the SGC leaders will be on vacation. The agreement was also on condition that the SEC selection process is to be free, fair and impartial.
The deal was arrived at after the dean of students declined a proposal by the fourth years to vie in the elections and also be involved in overseeing the polls.
“You are free to vie for elections, but you cannot be a referee and the player at the same time, the principal of natural justice states that you cannot be a judge over your own case” said the dean who was called upon to make clarifications on contentious issues that nearly brought the meeting to a halt. The dean equivocally stated that it was to be a hard choice between serving in the SEC, present candidates for the polls or come up with a co-opting arrangement.
The SEC which oversees MUSO elections constitutes of 30 to 45 members drawn from finalists and the post graduate students. Apart from the allowances that accompany the service, a certificate equivalent to the one given to the SGC members is given out making the post equivalent to that of an SGC member. The ordinary members earn Ksh. 5000 while the chairman and the secretary both earn about Ksh 8000
The consensus reached was received with mixed reactions from a cross -cutting student’s populace with some citing ambiguity in the 3 slots-provision given to the fourth years which have no specifications.
Some quipped that it was not an all inclusive meeting and that dreams of some fourth year aspirants were shuttered without any guarantee of being selected to be members of the SEC. the composition of the SEC was also questioned where there are two fourth year groups and the post graduates and who qualify to be bonafide SEC members.
The current fourth years have sacrificed their leadership quest to join the 27th SGC over an opportunity to serve in the SEC (students’ electoral commission). This comes after a politically charged meeting held yesterday (Tuesday 30th) afternoon attended by a cross section of the current fourth years and the dean of students.
The group resolved to form the SEC under the condition that 3 posts be reserved for the fourth years which will be filled through competitive elections and also to be represented and consulted in all issues pertaining MUSO.
The agreement, ratified by the dean of students and the students present had a provision for a caretaker committee to be constituted during the 2nd semester when some of the SGC leaders will be on vacation. The agreement was also on condition that the SEC selection process is to be free, fair and impartial.
The deal was arrived at after the dean of students declined a proposal by the fourth years to vie in the elections and also be involved in overseeing the polls.
“You are free to vie for elections, but you cannot be a referee and the player at the same time, the principal of natural justice states that you cannot be a judge over your own case” said the dean who was called upon to make clarifications on contentious issues that nearly brought the meeting to a halt. The dean equivocally stated that it was to be a hard choice between serving in the SEC, present candidates for the polls or come up with a co-opting arrangement.
The SEC which oversees MUSO elections constitutes of 30 to 45 members drawn from finalists and the post graduate students. Apart from the allowances that accompany the service, a certificate equivalent to the one given to the SGC members is given out making the post equivalent to that of an SGC member. The ordinary members earn Ksh. 5000 while the chairman and the secretary both earn about Ksh 8000
The consensus reached was received with mixed reactions from a cross -cutting student’s populace with some citing ambiguity in the 3 slots-provision given to the fourth years which have no specifications.
Some quipped that it was not an all inclusive meeting and that dreams of some fourth year aspirants were shuttered without any guarantee of being selected to be members of the SEC. the composition of the SEC was also questioned where there are two fourth year groups and the post graduates and who qualify to be bonafide SEC members.
APPLICATION FOR STUDENTS ELECTORAL COMMISSION (SEC) POSTS BEGINS
By Remington Galo
Undergraduate finalist and postgraduate students interested in being selected as Student Electoral Commissioners are being urged to apply. In a memo dated 30th July 2013, by The Dean of Students, the Electoral Commission shall comprise of at least 30 members. The members will be drawn from fourth and fifth year students (finalists) or post-graduate. Students possessing high integrity, independent and neutral have been urged to apply.
The SEC will organize elections of officials for the 27th SGC in conjunction with the Returning Officer and The Dean of Students for the 2013/2014 academic year, supervise campaign meetings and maintain discipline throughout the electioneering period, preside as officials (polling clerks and officials), aid in sorting out and counting of votes, maintain discipline within polling stations, and see that no electioneering is done within the premises of the polling stations (students center).
Those eligible for selection should submit their application in sealed envelopes marked ‘CONFIDENTIAL’ at the top to the Dean of Student’s Office latest by 6th August 2013 at 10.00 am. The applicants should state, among others, their full names, registration numbers, email addresses, mobile number/s, responsibilities held in the varsity in class and other welfare associations and the reason/s they think they should be selected.
Interviews will be conducted on 8th and 9th of August and names of successful applicants be pinned on notice boards on 13th August, 2013. The SEC will proceed to pick their chairperson and secretary on 15th August 2013 at 5pm. The chairperson and the secretary will prepare the program for elections and consequently take over the electioneering course.
Undergraduate finalist and postgraduate students interested in being selected as Student Electoral Commissioners are being urged to apply. In a memo dated 30th July 2013, by The Dean of Students, the Electoral Commission shall comprise of at least 30 members. The members will be drawn from fourth and fifth year students (finalists) or post-graduate. Students possessing high integrity, independent and neutral have been urged to apply.
The SEC will organize elections of officials for the 27th SGC in conjunction with the Returning Officer and The Dean of Students for the 2013/2014 academic year, supervise campaign meetings and maintain discipline throughout the electioneering period, preside as officials (polling clerks and officials), aid in sorting out and counting of votes, maintain discipline within polling stations, and see that no electioneering is done within the premises of the polling stations (students center).
Those eligible for selection should submit their application in sealed envelopes marked ‘CONFIDENTIAL’ at the top to the Dean of Student’s Office latest by 6th August 2013 at 10.00 am. The applicants should state, among others, their full names, registration numbers, email addresses, mobile number/s, responsibilities held in the varsity in class and other welfare associations and the reason/s they think they should be selected.
Interviews will be conducted on 8th and 9th of August and names of successful applicants be pinned on notice boards on 13th August, 2013. The SEC will proceed to pick their chairperson and secretary on 15th August 2013 at 5pm. The chairperson and the secretary will prepare the program for elections and consequently take over the electioneering course.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
RETAIN ROOMS AS YOU WAIT FOR HELB, SAYS DVC
By Mohammed Doyo
A group of students met the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Students' Affairs) Prof. Nathan Ogechi this afternoon following a direction that all 3rd years and a section of 2nd years who retained rooms last semester to clear fee & accommodation by this Friday, 2nd July 2013.
In the meeting, it was resolved that students (HELB beneficiaries) should be allowed to retain rooms as they wait for the loan disbursement.
The DVC had earlier on convened a meeting with Deans of all schools and agreed that the affected students by HELB delay should be allowed to pick their clearance certificates from their respective schools without necessarily clearing both tuition and accommodation fees.
After being issued with clearance certificates, students will be required to take them to the ICT department for officially registration in the online booking system.
The ICT will be setting a desk at the Student Center starting tomorrow to conduct the exercise. Students retaining rooms have been urged to comply with online registration process .
A group of students met the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Students' Affairs) Prof. Nathan Ogechi this afternoon following a direction that all 3rd years and a section of 2nd years who retained rooms last semester to clear fee & accommodation by this Friday, 2nd July 2013.
In the meeting, it was resolved that students (HELB beneficiaries) should be allowed to retain rooms as they wait for the loan disbursement.
The DVC had earlier on convened a meeting with Deans of all schools and agreed that the affected students by HELB delay should be allowed to pick their clearance certificates from their respective schools without necessarily clearing both tuition and accommodation fees.
After being issued with clearance certificates, students will be required to take them to the ICT department for officially registration in the online booking system.
The ICT will be setting a desk at the Student Center starting tomorrow to conduct the exercise. Students retaining rooms have been urged to comply with online registration process .
ON THE SPOTLIGHT: DIKEMBE DISEMBE
By Mohammed Doyo
In analyzing the performance of the 26th SGC, This week we focus on Seth Odong’o alias Dikembe Disembe the outgoing Muso Secretary General.
Dikembe, who has his beginnings in the campus media, will perhaps be remembered as one candidate who swayed the crowd in the last minute during the 2012 pre-election game changing crossfire. Thanks to a clearly articulated, electrifying speech that captured the aspirations of the comrades, Dikembe easily trounced Meshack Omega, who the opinion polls had placed as the post’s favorite in the March 17 2012 Muso elections.
Dikembe has had his successes and failures as the secretary general of MUSO. Collaborating with campus activists, he was instrumental in fighting for HELB disbursements in year 2012. At a time when HELB had declared to have no funds to disburse, Dikembe led a delegation to Nairobi which successfully negotiated for the release of the funds.
During the 2012 demonstration against the intended fare hike by the MU-84 Sacco, Dikembe was in the forefront agitating for discipline among the operators of the transport sector.
In an SGC that has been clogged with corruption and misappropriation of funds, Dikembe managed to set himself apart, often condemning the acts on the social media. He has also been a key defendant of students faced by discipline issues in the
University disciplinary meetings where he is a member.
However, the outspoken secretary general has had his fair share of shortcomings.
In year 2012, Dikembe was involved a tussle with the shamba Boy writer who he accused of painting him in the negative light in one of the articles. Quite unexpected him, He reported the matter to the dean of students. However, the Dean ruled in favor of Maalim Salaat. This incident almost toppled him out of the SGC after a section of the students, who were displeased by his move to report Maalim, decided to collect signatures to remove him from office. In an interesting turn of events, the group collecting the signatures mysteriously halted the process.
Perhaps one of his greatest shortcomings, the secretary general was unable to escape the lure of owning a shop, something he had vehemently condemned in all his scathing articles he used to write before joining the SGC.
In addition, Dikembe did little to see a new constitution in place, a task that squarely lies in his office. Considering he was part of the Collins Bett-led commission that wrote the 2011 draft constitution, a section of the students felt he was in a very good position to push for its adoption.
Others felt the secretary General of concentrating too much on national politics, SONU politics on social media in expense of MUSO issues while others felt the SG was too high handed to listen to issues of average students.
Nonetheless, Dikembe remains a figure that won’t be ignored in both student and national politics in Kenya in the near future. Going by what he does in socio-political platforms, pundits have argued that the acclaimed scribe, blogger and a social and political commentator, is among the few SGC members who have a political future after the SGC.
The writer is the Editor-in-Chief, The 3rd Eye.
In analyzing the performance of the 26th SGC, This week we focus on Seth Odong’o alias Dikembe Disembe the outgoing Muso Secretary General.
Dikembe, who has his beginnings in the campus media, will perhaps be remembered as one candidate who swayed the crowd in the last minute during the 2012 pre-election game changing crossfire. Thanks to a clearly articulated, electrifying speech that captured the aspirations of the comrades, Dikembe easily trounced Meshack Omega, who the opinion polls had placed as the post’s favorite in the March 17 2012 Muso elections.
Dikembe has had his successes and failures as the secretary general of MUSO. Collaborating with campus activists, he was instrumental in fighting for HELB disbursements in year 2012. At a time when HELB had declared to have no funds to disburse, Dikembe led a delegation to Nairobi which successfully negotiated for the release of the funds.
During the 2012 demonstration against the intended fare hike by the MU-84 Sacco, Dikembe was in the forefront agitating for discipline among the operators of the transport sector.
In an SGC that has been clogged with corruption and misappropriation of funds, Dikembe managed to set himself apart, often condemning the acts on the social media. He has also been a key defendant of students faced by discipline issues in the
University disciplinary meetings where he is a member.
However, the outspoken secretary general has had his fair share of shortcomings.
In year 2012, Dikembe was involved a tussle with the shamba Boy writer who he accused of painting him in the negative light in one of the articles. Quite unexpected him, He reported the matter to the dean of students. However, the Dean ruled in favor of Maalim Salaat. This incident almost toppled him out of the SGC after a section of the students, who were displeased by his move to report Maalim, decided to collect signatures to remove him from office. In an interesting turn of events, the group collecting the signatures mysteriously halted the process.
Perhaps one of his greatest shortcomings, the secretary general was unable to escape the lure of owning a shop, something he had vehemently condemned in all his scathing articles he used to write before joining the SGC.
In addition, Dikembe did little to see a new constitution in place, a task that squarely lies in his office. Considering he was part of the Collins Bett-led commission that wrote the 2011 draft constitution, a section of the students felt he was in a very good position to push for its adoption.
Others felt the secretary General of concentrating too much on national politics, SONU politics on social media in expense of MUSO issues while others felt the SG was too high handed to listen to issues of average students.
Nonetheless, Dikembe remains a figure that won’t be ignored in both student and national politics in Kenya in the near future. Going by what he does in socio-political platforms, pundits have argued that the acclaimed scribe, blogger and a social and political commentator, is among the few SGC members who have a political future after the SGC.
The writer is the Editor-in-Chief, The 3rd Eye.
Monday, July 29, 2013
STUDENTS DECRY DILAPIDATED STATE OF HOSTELS
By Kamau Wainaina
Students residing in varsity hostels are up in arms over poor condition of the hostel rooms.
The students have raised concern over lack of light in washrooms and dilapidated state of the rooms which they say have worn out floors and do not have power sockets.
“There are no light in most of the washrooms and this has made using the facilities difficult,” said hostel B resident.
He said the institution ceased to treat students as clients adding that the concerned authorities should address the menace with speed.
The students, majority fourth years, have also expressed fears over their security within the institution reiterating that if it does not move with speed to fix security lights at strategic points, cases of insecurity are poised to soar.
“There are no security lights in most parts of the university and I fear insecurity might soar,” added the student who sought for anonymity.
The students have faulted the university’s management over lack of initiative to renovate the institution’s hostels.
He said, “The institution should carry out regular maintenance of the rooms to improve their conditions.”
The same sentiments were echoed by several students residing in Hostels A, F, G and E.
ENDS…
The students have raised concern over lack of light in washrooms and dilapidated state of the rooms which they say have worn out floors and do not have power sockets.
“There are no light in most of the washrooms and this has made using the facilities difficult,” said hostel B resident.
He said the institution ceased to treat students as clients adding that the concerned authorities should address the menace with speed.
The students, majority fourth years, have also expressed fears over their security within the institution reiterating that if it does not move with speed to fix security lights at strategic points, cases of insecurity are poised to soar.
“There are no security lights in most parts of the university and I fear insecurity might soar,” added the student who sought for anonymity.
The students have faulted the university’s management over lack of initiative to renovate the institution’s hostels.
He said, “The institution should carry out regular maintenance of the rooms to improve their conditions.”
The same sentiments were echoed by several students residing in Hostels A, F, G and E.
ENDS…
RE-BOOK YOUR ROOMS, THIRD YEARS DIRECTED
By Remington Galo
Third year students who retained rooms have been directed to re-book the rooms online. According to a memo dated 26th July 2013, students should re-book rooms latest by noon Friday 2nd August 2013 to reconfirm the rooms retained from last semester.
After 2nd of August, ICT system will be synchronized and those not captured by it will be considered unregistered and thus non-resident in the campus hostels.
Conditions for re-booking a room are paying full tuition and accommodation fees, obtain a clearance form from the dean of school, confirm with the Hostels Officer that they have been allocated the room and then sign the room allocation sheet.
This comes at time when some students are uncertain whether and when they will receive their HELB loans. Majority of students who are HELB beneficiaries use the funds to cater for their fee and daily upkeep.
A section of third year students have not yet received their loans because of an alleged hitch with the loaners systems thus forcing the students to wait for a whole semester. However, unconfirmed reports say the funds might be disbursed by the end of this week.
Third year students who retained rooms have been directed to re-book the rooms online. According to a memo dated 26th July 2013, students should re-book rooms latest by noon Friday 2nd August 2013 to reconfirm the rooms retained from last semester.
After 2nd of August, ICT system will be synchronized and those not captured by it will be considered unregistered and thus non-resident in the campus hostels.
Conditions for re-booking a room are paying full tuition and accommodation fees, obtain a clearance form from the dean of school, confirm with the Hostels Officer that they have been allocated the room and then sign the room allocation sheet.
This comes at time when some students are uncertain whether and when they will receive their HELB loans. Majority of students who are HELB beneficiaries use the funds to cater for their fee and daily upkeep.
A section of third year students have not yet received their loans because of an alleged hitch with the loaners systems thus forcing the students to wait for a whole semester. However, unconfirmed reports say the funds might be disbursed by the end of this week.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
PREPARATION FOR MUSO ELECTIONS BEGINS
By Mohammed Doyo
The quest to succeed the 26th SGC(Students' Governing Council) has begun with many aspirants declaring their interests to vie for various positions. Several aspirants have created face book pages and groups, twitter handles in readiness to woo voters through the social media networks platforms while others have earnestly begun seeking support and endorsement from Campus popular and influential figures ahead of the MUSO elections scheduled to happen in the course of this semester.
Aspirants are already making their presence and their candidature known through popular face book pages and groups that involve Main Campus. One such page is The 3rd Eye wall which has continued to receive influx of posts from aspirants making their candidature known over the past few weeks. Students too have been publicly endorsing their preferred choices on the same wall.
Going by the number of people who have declared interest to vie for the MUSO posts so far, the forthcoming elections might turn out to be the most competitive in the recent MUSO elections history. In the docket of secretary general alone, over fifteen students have declared interests to run for the post as battle to succeed Seth Dikembe hots up. The number is expected to steadily rise as others, who are yet to declare interests to vie, emerge in the due course. The same scenario has been witnessed in other dockets.
The Aspirants will be seeking to succeed the 26th SGC which has been in office since March 2012.
The quest to succeed the 26th SGC(Students' Governing Council) has begun with many aspirants declaring their interests to vie for various positions. Several aspirants have created face book pages and groups, twitter handles in readiness to woo voters through the social media networks platforms while others have earnestly begun seeking support and endorsement from Campus popular and influential figures ahead of the MUSO elections scheduled to happen in the course of this semester.
Aspirants are already making their presence and their candidature known through popular face book pages and groups that involve Main Campus. One such page is The 3rd Eye wall which has continued to receive influx of posts from aspirants making their candidature known over the past few weeks. Students too have been publicly endorsing their preferred choices on the same wall.
Going by the number of people who have declared interest to vie for the MUSO posts so far, the forthcoming elections might turn out to be the most competitive in the recent MUSO elections history. In the docket of secretary general alone, over fifteen students have declared interests to run for the post as battle to succeed Seth Dikembe hots up. The number is expected to steadily rise as others, who are yet to declare interests to vie, emerge in the due course. The same scenario has been witnessed in other dockets.
The Aspirants will be seeking to succeed the 26th SGC which has been in office since March 2012.
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