This archive report was first published on 15 October 2019.
Kenya's media landscape has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with radio stations prioritizing entertainment over journalism. The trend has left many journalism graduates struggling to find employment, while celebrities without a background in journalism are raking in millions.
According to a report, thousands of youth join universities and colleges every year to study journalism, hoping to become influential media personalities. However, the dream has been shattered by the rise of media personalities who either didn't study journalism or didn't attend campus.
Today, most radio hosts did not study journalism, yet they earn millions while journalism graduates struggle to get employment. The competition to get more listeners has led radio stations to employ famous individuals without considering whether they studied journalism or any related course.
Comedians Taking Radio Jobs ¶
Take Daniel Ndambuki, also known as Mwalimu King'ang'i, for instance. He has a huge following on his Classic 105 morning show, where he uses his comedy skills to entertain listeners. When hiring him, the radio station knew his comedy fans would follow him to the radio station.
However, no journalism training is needed to deliver jokes, but you've got to have studied journalism to know which jokes should be said and which one should not.
Why Journalism is Key ¶
Inspekta Mwala, an actor and comedian, landed a job in media without studying journalism. On several occasions, he has found himself in trouble after making controversial utterances on air. Mwala was recently on the spot after he disagreed with his fellow host on air.
It is a disadvantage that comes with hiring someone who has not studied journalism and does not know about the ethics of mass communications.
However, these radio stations have a way of playing down such scandals. Whenever they happen, the people involved will just come after to say that it was nothing but a PR stunt.
Graduates Left Hustling for Shady Jobs ¶
Being famous has become the qualification to land a job in media. Every radio station is picking up the trend while journalism graduates are left jobless looking for employment anywhere they can find.
Perhaps the only way to land yourself a job in media is by establishing your name and gaining a following.
Thousands of youth graduate with Journalism degrees every year. With the few spots in media houses taken by social media personalities and comedians, where are the job opportunities for the energetic journalism graduates?
