On Friday 11th October 2024, students from Mount Kigali University’s School of Journalism and Media Studies marked a historic moment as they took part in the university’s first-ever research project defense.
The event, held at the school’s editorial lab is one of the series of the university’s curriculum improvements since its accreditation-a testament to its dedication in raising the academic bar, with an emphasis on practical skills that match the demands of today’s media industry.
“The shift to defending research projects is a strategic move to ensure students not only acquire theoretical knowledge, but also develop critical thinking, research skills, and a deeper understanding of real-world issues,” stressed Festus Irungu Ndirangu, the Head of the Journalism department.
Irungu further stressed that the act allows students to showcase their understanding of complex media theories and practices enabling them to face the real-world head-on.
Throughout the day, a vast of meticulously researched projects were presented by students from the January and May intakes. Like the role of TVET (Technical-Vocational Education and Training) schools in the development of journalism training, the development of communication in Rwanda’s socio-economic transformation, the role of community-based forest management in mitigating deforestation, and social media’s role in covering environmental stories, among others.
These, according to Michael Waweru, the project supervisor, were tailored to the society’s benefit. “The manner in which the students curated their research projects was quite exciting and satisfying, given the fact that this is the first time the school is doing this. All their topics resonate with the department’s main goals, not to mention societal issues,” he remarked.
For the students, the move was long due-if the turn up was an indicator. Not to mention the fashion statements they made with elegant outfits, sleek shoes and exquisite bags.
“I believe this culture will motivate students to do more in terms of their research projects, knowing that they have an audience to weigh in on their skills,” proclaimed Mugabo Innocent, a graduand.
Precedent Guild president Florence Kudembe was also the students who defended their projects. Beaming with joy, Florence declared that; “Sharing my findings with an audience of lecturers and students was a great honor. Most importantly, the feedback was positive, as panelists liked both the topic and video, a reward for my unflagging efforts.”
The students who successfully did their research project defense are expected to graduate in December 2024. While those soon to defend theirs were urged by the lecturers to; ‘thoughtfully treat and craft them’, as it could be a steppingstone for their careers.
“Going forward, I expect students to approach their research projects with a high level of seriousness and commitment,” stressed Irungu.
