Story Courtesy of MCK
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged universities and training institutions to strengthen digital skills and innovation in media education to prepare future journalists for a rapidly evolving communication landscape.
MCK Kisumu Regional Coordinator Teddy Evans said Media and Information and Digital Literacy (MIDL) remains critical in enabling audiences to engage with information critically and participate responsibly in the digital space.
Speaking during this year’s Career Week at Alupe University, Evans noted that the fast-changing media environment demands well-rounded professionals equipped with modern digital competencies.
“The media landscape is shifting faster than ever. If you are not digitally skilled today, you risk becoming irrelevant tomorrow,” Evans said.
He stressed the need to equip the next generation of journalists and communication professionals with practical digital tools that will enable them not only to adapt to change but also to thrive in the industry.
Evans encouraged students pursuing media and communication studies to treat digital literacy as a core professional skill, noting that audiences today are increasingly diverse, fragmented and deeply connected through digital platforms.
According to him, journalists must develop innovative skills to effectively respond to emerging information needs and the growing influence of digital media.
He also called on training institutions to shift toward skills-based learning models that emphasize creativity, entrepreneurship and practical media competencies.
Evans proposed the establishment of media and communication hubs within universities as dedicated spaces where students can experiment, collaborate and gain hands-on training in modern media practices.
He further challenged media trainers and lecturers to continually upgrade their skills to remain relevant in the rapidly evolving media ecosystem.
In addition, he urged academic institutions to invest in research on media sustainability, particularly in exploring innovative business models that can support the long-term viability of journalism in the digital age.
The engagement brought together the media regulator, students, trainers and industry professionals to discuss the future of communication and journalism in Kenya amid accelerating technological change.
