Bachelor of Technology in Journalism students got an opportunity to present their final-year project to mainstream media editors who critiqued the work.
Senior Print Production Editor at Standard Group (SG) Ms. Anne Mukei together with Mr. Ochieng’ Rapuro, a former Editorial Director, reviewed a 40-page editorial magazine during a Newspapers Publishing Project moderation seminar held at the University on 17th July, 2025.
The Newsletter is called The Hill.
Mr. Oketch Kendo, who facilitated the forum, said “Bringing in veteran external examiners and mentors from the media industry provides a rigorous review of theoretical perspective, and therefore bridging classroom learning with real-world practice.”
Mr. Kendo is a veteran journalist, editor and currently teaches journalism in the Department of Creative Arts and Media. Dr. Julius Bosire who was recently elected as a Council Member for the Academia in the Kenya Editors’ Guild, was also among the examiners. Dr Bosire is also a senior lecturer in the Department.
Both internal and external examiners challenged students to quickly take-up new media tools to aid them produce highbred material that cater for both traditional and the new generation consumers, this while ensuring gatekeeping and journalism ethical standards are maintained.
According to Hillary Mageka, Editor-in-Chief of The Hill, the feedback was a mix of constructive criticism and praise. “The panel reviewed our editorial structure, layout, and writing depth. While they pointed out areas needing improvement, they also commended us for producing a professional-grade student newspaper,” Mageka said.
The 13-member team undertook the project over eight weeks, simulating a real newsroom environment. Each student managed a dedicated beat, including cover stories, lifestyle, business, features, and sports. Despite facing tight academic schedules and limited publishing resources, the team succeeded in printing a polished final copy.
“We learned that journalism is a continuous process, from gathering news to rewriting and improving the final product,” Mageka added.
The panel further recommended that The Hill serve as a reference publication in the Department.
The writers, Magdaline Mwita & Benson Ltamely, are Journalism Students
