The media landscape is evolving at the speed of a breaking news alert, and Rwanda’s growing media industry demands graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also job-ready from day one. Mount Kigali University (MKU) has been at the forefront of preparing students to meet these challenges, sending its media graduates into the workforce with practical skills and entrepreneurial drive.
A promising job market for media graduates
When asked about alumni employment, Head of Studies Festus Irungu gave a positive assessment.
“They are employed in the media, most of them, and in communication sectors,” Irungu said. “Some have set up their own production houses, while others have pursued opportunities abroad or further studies. The majority are doing well.”
MKU graduates are not only securing jobs but also creating opportunities for themselves, establishing production houses, and building international careers. This demonstrates that the university’s training is recognized both locally and globally, producing graduates who are competitive beyond Rwanda’s borders.
Building the skills employers want
In today’s fast-paced media industry, versatility is key. Employers look for graduates who can handle everything from filming to social media management. Irungu explained how MKU equips students with these skills:
“For me, I teach TV and radio production, and of course, digital media. These are the areas I focus on when it comes to Television and Radio Production.”
Traditional skills like TV and radio production remain crucial, providing a solid foundation in storytelling, voice delivery, and visual communication. At the same time, digital media training is vital for success in modern journalism, including mobile journalism, audience analytics, and content creation across online platforms.
Future-proofing the curriculum
With media technology evolving rapidly, staying current is a challenge. Irungu outlined MKU’s approach to ensuring the curriculum remains relevant while following regulatory requirements.
“We have just reviewed our curriculum, and legally, we can’t do a full review again until five years. But we do yearly checks to see where improvements are needed,” he said.
Plans are underway to enhance teaching staff expertise and improve facilities. Once the new building is complete, the university will have modern studios for every program, allowing students to practice hands-on in professional-grade environments.
“This approach is key,” Irungu added. “We want to involve students more in practical aspects so they can graduate fully prepared for the industry.”
By combining strong foundational training, digital media skills, and hands-on experience in modern studios, MKU is equipping its graduates to excel in Rwanda’s dynamic media landscape, ensuring they can move seamlessly from campus to career.
