From Xenophobia to the Runway: Adetshina's Miss Universe Triumph is a Fashionable Statement

 Chidimma Adetshina, a young woman born in South Africa to a Nigerian father, has made history as the first Nigerian to be crowned first runner-up at the Miss Universe pageant. Her journey to the prestigious competition was marked by both adversity and triumph.

Miss Denmark Victoria Kjaer Theilvig reacts next to Miss Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina, as she is announced as the winner of the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico City, Mexico, November 16, 2024. REUTERS/Raquel Cunha

Initially, Adetshina competed in Miss South Africa, but was forced to withdraw due to controversy surrounding her nationality. She faced xenophobic backlash and allegations that her mother had stolen the identity of a South African woman, leading to government investigations. Despite the difficult situation, Adetshina expressed gratitude to South Africa, a country she holds dear.

However, her journey took a new turn when the organizers of the Miss Universe Nigeria competition extended an invitation to her. This opportunity allowed Adetshina to reconnect with her Nigerian heritage and pursue her dreams on a global stage. She embraced this chance and ultimately achieved remarkable success at the Miss Universe pageant, becoming the first Nigerian to reach the top two.

Ahead of the finals, Adetshina shared an emotional post on Instagram, expressing her gratitude to Nigerians for their unwavering support. She spoke of feeling overwhelmed by the challenges she faced, but ultimately finding strength in her dreams and the love of the Nigerian people. She acknowledged the risks she took, but emphasized her determination to make history and represent her country with pride.

Adetshina's success builds on the legacy of Nigerian women who have excelled on global beauty platforms, evoking memories of Agbani Darego's historic Miss World win in 2001. Her journey serves as an inspiration to young people around the world, demonstrating the power of resilience, determination, and embracing one's heritage.

Moi University Strike Escalates: Suspensions Issued, Graduation in Jeopardy

Moi University is facing another hurdle in its efforts to resume academic activities. The institution's management has begun suspending academic staff, including leaders of the University Academic Staff Union (UASU) and the Kenya University Staff Union (KUSU). This action has sparked strong resistance from the staff, who are demanding the payment of salaries and loans withheld for two months.

"Moi University has started handing in dismissal letters," confirmed Busolo Wegesa, Chapter Secretary of UASU at Moi University. "As of now, they have already handed the letter to the leadership of all the university staff unions. All the leaders have been given the notice."

A high-ranking KUSU official echoed these sentiments, stating, "We just want them to pay our loans and all the deductions that they have taken from us. They should pay us, then we will come back to work. A salary is our right so you cannot tell us to get back to work just because you paid our salaries. We haven’t been paid for two months.”

The suspensions come despite a directive from Members of Parliament for the university management to engage in dialogue with employees. Instead, the management issued warning letters before the parliamentary committee left the premises on November 6th, escalating to suspension letters for union leaders.

"They are trying to divide and rule. They are giving suspension letters selectively, feeding us fear. We want to tell the management and the government that this has greatly fueled us to work more," said the KUSU official.

Wegesa expressed his belief that the management is deliberately trying to silence their concerns and prevent a resolution. "We believe there is someone who does not want Moi University issues to be discussed so they want to hide them by pushing the employees away," he stated.

The staff accuse the university of using intimidation tactics to force them back to work, arguing that they cannot return until their financial grievances are addressed. "How do workers go to work if they have not been paid salaries for two months? How do workers go to work when their loans are in court and their property is being auctioned?" questioned Wegesa.

The ongoing dispute threatens to further disrupt academic activities, potentially delaying graduation. The university's ERP system, used for generating graduation lists, is reportedly dysfunctional, forcing staff to rely on manual processes.

"Graduation will not take place. Until all our issues are resolved, there will be no graduation system. Moi University uses ERP system to produce the graduation list. That ERP system has long been spoilt and we are currently using manual means and those lecturers who are still on strike are supposed to undertake this role," added Wegesa.

The situation at Moi University remains tense, with staff determined to fight for their rights and demanding a resolution to their financial concerns before resuming their duties.

Moi University Orders Staff Back to Work, Citing Court Ruling

 Eldoret, Kenya - Moi University has ordered all staff members, both academic and non-academic, to immediately suspend their ongoing strike and resume their duties. The directive, issued in a memo signed by Vice Chancellor Prof. Kosgey, cites a recent ruling by the Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC) on November 8th, 2024.

The memo states: "The ELRC has issued interim orders barring the University Academic Staff Union (UASU) and the Kenya Universities Staff Union (KUSU) from 'calling, taking part in, instigating or inciting other to take part in an unprotected strike, strike, or any other form of industrial action.'"

The university has further directed all Deans to ensure that learning resumes in their respective schools on Monday, November 11th at 8:00 am. Any staff members who fail to comply with the order will be reported to the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic, Research, Extension and Student Affairs (DVC ARESA).

The memo, which has been widely circulated among university staff, includes a picture of the ELRC court order, further emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

The recent strike, which began in October, had disrupted academic activities at the university, with students facing uncertainty about their studies. The court's ruling and the university's subsequent directive are expected to bring a much-needed resolution to the impasse.

Moi University: From Foundation of Knowledge to Crisis Point?

Summary:

The National Assembly's Education Committee has called for the complete dissolution of Moi University's current management.

This decision follows a period of prolonged unrest, including student protests and a lecturers' strike, leading to the university's closure since November 2024.

The committee is advocating for a transitional board to take over the university's administration.

The committee is concerned about financial mismanagement and has demanded an independent investigation into the university's finances.

The situation highlights deep-seated problems at Moi University, jeopardizing the future of its students and eroding its academic integrity.

 The National Assembly's Education Committee, chaired by Tinderet MP Julius Melly, has issued a strong call for the complete dissolution of the current management of Moi University. This dramatic move comes in response to a period of prolonged unrest at the institution, marked by escalating tensions between students and lecturers, coupled with severe financial difficulties.

Video: NTV Kenya

The committee's decision to advocate for a transitional board to take over the running of the university underscores the gravity of the situation. The university has been forced to close its doors since November 2024, a direct consequence of student protests and a subsequent lecturers' strike. These actions highlight the deep-seated problems that have plagued the institution, eroding its academic integrity and jeopardizing the future of its students.

The committee's concerns extend beyond the immediate crisis. They are deeply troubled by the university's financial situation and the apparent mismanagement of funds. This has led them to demand an independent investigation into the university's financial affairs, seeking to shed light on the underlying causes of the institution's dire state and to ensure accountability for any wrongdoing.

Tragedy Strikes Moi University: Two Students Drown in Quarry

The tranquil waters of an open quarry near Moi University in Eldoret turned deadly on Monday afternoon, claiming the lives of two students. The young men, identified as Wycliffe Machuki (left), a third-year student, and Chris Otieno (right), a second-year student, were reportedly enjoying a swim in the quarry located in the Kesses area of Uasin Gishu County when tragedy struck.

The circumstances surrounding the drowning remain unclear, but initial reports suggest that the students may have encountered difficulties while swimming. A somber mood descended upon the university community as news of the tragedy spread, with students and faculty alike expressing their shock and grief.

Confirming the incident, Police Chief Charles Chacha of the Kesses area stated that the bodies of the two students were recovered from the quarry and transported to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Eldoret mortuary. Authorities are currently investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of the drownings.

Two bodies of the drowned students retrieved from a quary.

The loss of these two young lives serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with open water, even in seemingly calm environments. As the university community mourns the loss of their fellow students, it is a time for reflection and a renewed emphasis on water safety awareness.

Rest in Peace comrades🕊️

The Balancing Act: Public Interest vs. National Interest

Author: Jemedari Mwanawakiume

 The terms "public interest" and "national interest" are often thrown around in political discourse, sometimes interchangeably. While they share a common goal of benefiting society, they represent distinct perspectives, often leading to a complex balancing act.

The public interest focuses on the well-being of the general public, prioritizing issues like social welfare, environmental protection, and individual rights. It champions policies that directly benefit citizens, ensuring access to healthcare, education, and a safe environment. For example, advocating for stricter environmental regulations to protect public health falls under the public interest.

The national interest, on the other hand, encompasses a broader perspective, encompassing the nation's security, economic prosperity, and international standing. It considers policies that benefit the nation as a whole, even if they might not directly impact individual citizens. For instance, a trade agreement that strengthens the economy, even if it leads to job losses in specific sectors, could be deemed in the national interest.

The crux of the issue lies in the potential for conflict between these two perspectives. A policy that benefits the national economy might negatively impact a specific community, leading to a clash between public and national interest. For instance, building a new airport that boosts tourism and economic growth could displace residents and damage the environment, raising concerns about the public interest.

Navigating this conflict requires a delicate balance. While prioritizing national interest might seem advantageous in the long run, neglecting the public interest can lead to social unrest and undermine the legitimacy of the government. Similarly, solely focusing on the public interest might hinder national progress and limit opportunities for growth.

The solution lies in finding policies that serve both the national and public interest. This requires a comprehensive approach that considers the needs of all citizens while also ensuring the nation's overall well-being. This can be achieved through:

Transparency and accountability: Openly communicating the rationale behind policies and ensuring that decision-making processes are transparent can build trust and address public concerns.

Effective communication: Engaging with the public and understanding their concerns is crucial for finding solutions that address both public and national interests.

Long-term vision: Policies should be designed with a long-term perspective, considering their impact on future generations and the sustainability of the nation.

Ultimately, the goal should be to create a society where the public interest and national interest are not seen as opposing forces but rather as complementary goals, working in tandem to create a better future for all. This requires constant dialogue, a willingness to compromise, and a shared commitment to building a nation that prioritizes both its people and its progress.

"I have had to ask myself whether the highest interest is the public interest or there is a higher interest called the national iinterest, because the public itself could hurt the national interests - DP Kithure Kindiki

Moi University: Back to the Books, But What About the Issues?

Author: Jemedari Mwanawakiume

Get ready to hit the books, Moi University students! After a month of campus closures and student unrest, the university is finally reopening its doors on Friday, November 8th. The decision came after a series of meetings between university management, staff, and student representatives, aiming to address the issues that sparked the protests.

But hold up, what exactly happened? Students were furious about the VC's decision to close the university, claiming it violated their right to education. They also accused the VC of poor management and ignoring their concerns about staff issues.

So what's next? The university is promising a fresh start. The management board and student representatives are finalizing a "return to work" agreement, and the Higher Education PS will be on campus to welcome students back.

But will this be enough to address the underlying problems? Students are hoping this reopening marks a real change, not just a temporary fix. The upcoming weeks will be crucial to see if the university can truly address the issues that led to the closure and create a more supportive learning environment for everyone.

Beyond the Headlines: A Critical Thinker's Guide to News Verification

By Jemedari Mwanawakiume

 It's important to be critical of the information you encounter online, especially when it comes to news articles. Here are some tips to help you determine if a news story is reliable:

Checking the Source:

Reputable Sources: Look for news organizations known for accurate reporting. Be cautious of websites with unusual domain names or missing contact information.

Beyond the Headlines: Headlines can be catchy but misleading. Read the entire article to understand the full context.

Author Expertise: Check if the author is an expert on the topic and if they have any biases that might influence their reporting.

Supporting Evidence: Look for links to credible sources that back up the claims made in the article.

Other Signs: Be wary of articles with excessive capitalization, poor grammar, or a lack of evidence.

Send message to VERIFY NEWS INFORMATION

Verifying Information:

Fact-Checking Websites: Websites like FactCheck.org and Snopes.com can help you determine the accuracy of news stories.

Multiple Sources: Compare information from different sources to see if there are any inconsistencies.

Reverse Image Search: If a photo seems suspicious, use a reverse image search to see where it originated and if it has been used in other contexts.

AIESEC In Moi Dinner

By Bungei

On the 10^th of February, the AIESEC in MOI were privileged to hold their annual Gala which was a success. This evening was filled with utter excitement as the Alumni, the Juniors alumni, the recent graduates and the current students reunited. Sharing stories of success and mentorship to these young Souls that thirst for that success.

 

Boma Inn where the event happened was a magnificent place to hold such a luxurious event. The Sophistication with which the event was planned and the dishes served was spectacular, congratulations to the organizing committee.

 

The head of AIESEC in Kenya graced the meeting with elegance, While the patron Mr. Musakali brought charm as the most supportive Alumni Duncan Huba danced the night away celebrating a good year while awarding the best performed AIESECer.

 

A detailed road map was laid out by the incoming President Aston Mboto and Outgoing President Mishley Otiende. With a target of engaging over 10,000 youths by 2027 ,20 SDG projects and 300stories told seems to be achievable Goal.

 

The dinner was fun, with keynote speakers young and thriving in the Tech industry burned hearts with desires to be successful. Magdaline chepkemboi who is the founder of Eldo hub and Steve Biko who is transformin lives using tech spoke how they have gone out of their way to achieve their goals.

 

AIESEC is a wonderful organization where you make an impact in the world starting with where you are. It gives opportunities that shape you up ready for the outside world.

If you are not in AIESC then what are you doing with your life? Join AIESEC and get the experience of a life time.

 

 

 

RESPECT THE HUSTLE

 

 

 

 By Chloe Odhiambo.

“Mandazi 5 Chapo 10...” That is what will wake up a comrade from their beauty sleep. Some will use that as their alarm to remind them to get up and start their day. Doors banging left and right as people want to catch the attention of the sellers. I can only imagine what the student who woke up to make those mandazis in their bedsitter went through. The nice aroma and stuffiness all in the same room.

Deciding on a business as a student is as problematic as it sounds. Thinking of a niche and how you’ll manage to sell as you’re studying, needs one with multiple thought streams. The lecturer might be speaking but that one comrade is thinking of how much profit will be made from selling just five of their products. Having a name on the streets of the university and outside about the business also counts. It’s never the same struggle for everyone in this race.

The HELB loan given to students has many uses. From the minute it lands in the students’ mpesa and respective bank accounts, it’s already over as they speak. An upcoming entrepreneur has already thought of investing and others will save and wait for accumulation to start their own ‘empires’. I can’t really say they enjoy it as their fellows

There are also the silent freelancers. Those who work online remotely earning their own income without anyone having to know about their sources. It’s not as easy as it sounds as well. Lacking sleep to make sure an international agent gets his work on time and in perfect condition, is not a walk in the park. That dollar earned goes a long way.

The high cost of living that is spiraling unusually is giving students sleepless nights compelling them to be lucrative by any means possible. It reaches a certain age where one can’t be asking for money from their parents. Modern day adulting. Mboka ni mboka is the defense statement used by those who get caught by the law for doing illegal works in the name of getting cash. Worst of all as a student. The hard-earned earned money will be the one used to bail you out.

Backgrounds are never similar. Any student trying to make ends meet must never forget their core business that brought them to university. With money comes great power that requires knowledge to keep it and make it multiply, as once professed. To anyone in school and still making a living, the pressure is real but always worth it. Respect the hustle!

 

MY STONE CRUSH

 

 By Maloba Titus

Best may be worst,

Love, so complicated always,

Contain everything, but curtained,

Sad.

 

Her Fanta figure bottle,

Brown skin undying,

Her smile of everything,

Her shy eyes covered in arms,

Innocent, showing no harm.

 

Ooh, she would be mine,

I went down times nine,

Got up ten she wasn't,

Her height just perfect,

I couldn't earn.

 

I was willing to be true,

Even at my worst flaw,

Couldn't promise the world,

Royalty but loyalty,

I am just from the humble.

 

In you I found love,

The best I thought better,

Turns out bitter.

 Let me dig butter, first.

  

In you I found peace,

The best that there is,

Turns out better,   

In my next life.                                                   

 

Highlights Of Recent Events

 

 By Bungei Brenda

Young Marathoner Dies

The Tragic Death of the young Kiptum has taken the whole world with a storm. He has been mourned for his life has been snatched away just as he had his hands on the trophy. He had a whole life ahead of him that was shattered at a glimpse.

The young marathon world record holder,24 years died on Sunday night at around 11pm, alongside his 36-year-old coach Gervais who Is a Rwandan. The accident happened along the Eldoret – Kaptagat highway. Authorities claim that he may have lost control of his car, veered 60 meters away before hitting a tree

His death comes exactly five days after the World athletics ratified his world record time of 2:00.35 which he set with uttermost victory in Chicago’s marathon last year.

Many people came to know about Kelvin Kiptum last year after he Broke Eliud Kipchoge’s world record with only 35 seconds. Not only the World of Athletics Mourn him, the world at large feels the pain of his life been snatched away. This Terrible death has robbed the Athletics world of an extra Ordinary talent.

Maribe’s Joy Cut Short

Close to 7 years now, the case of a business Woman Monica Kimani has been doing rounds of Trials in the High court. Late last week, a verdict was reached and the High court came to a ruling that found Joseph Irungu alias ‘jowie’ guilty and former news anchor Jackie Maribe was acquitted.

Maribe’s acquittal may be cut short due to the notice of appeal that has been filled with the Director of Public Prosecution. The DPP sates that the republic is dissatisfied with the decision of the High court in Kenya and appeals to the court of appeal against that judgement where Jackie Maribe gets acquitted.

Jackie was acquitted through the ruling of the High court Judge Grace Nzioka after the prosecution failed to provide enough evidence linking Maribe to the murder that had occurred in 19^th of September 2019.Maribe might have provided false information to the police but there was no proper chare against her and so called out to the Director of Public Prosecution for they know their mandate.

Maribe has been charged jointly with his ex-fiancé Joseph Irungu who was found guilty and his sentence will be delivered on the 15^th of March 2023.

 

Last Minute Semester

 

 

 

 By Faith Onyango.

In the final year of study ,many students find themselves at a crossroads, torn between embracing the future or succumbing to uncertainty. For some, this final year is a flurry of job applications as they strive to overcome their apprehensions about post-graduate life. Meanwhile, others have already secured positions or are diligently planning their next steps.

However, amidst the excitement and anticipation, there are also feelings of confusion and apprehension. Some students are unsure of where to even begin their journey beyond academia. They lament the lack of practical skills or talents horned during their four years on campus, realizing that they may not be adequately prepared for the demands of the real world.

The success of their peers only adds to the pressure. While some have already found employment and are thriving in their careers, others are left grappling with feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty about their own prospects.

 

In addition to the career-related stress, some final-year students feel the weight of choosing life partners. The fear of not finding genuine companions outside the academic bubble adds another layer of concern.

 

Amid these pressures, it is essential for final-year students to stay grounded and trust that everything will fall into place. Worrying excessively is counterproductive; instead, recognizing that there is a plan and taking proactive steps will pave the way for a smoother transition into the next chapter of their lives.

 

Indeed, the final semester serves as a pivotal moment for many students as they navigate the transition from college to career. It is a time for reflection, planning, and perhaps most importantly, taking proactive steps to carve out a path towards a fulfilling and successful future.

 

THE UNPRESIDENTAL TONGUE

 By Ibran Nabungolo

The president ushered the new year of 2024 with a sustained attacks on Judiciary, an arm of the government, that he was once a darling to until the legal sword struck their relationship on issues regarding the Affordable housing levy and Recruitment of our police forces to the Republic of Haiti.

The President tongue has since become a tongue of vengeance, threats, coercive and to add to the list lies as the norm to the symbol of national unity and high status the name has had post Nyayo regime.

Today, every Kenyan has become accustomed to His Excellency's lies even in villages like Taptangelei. Whenever the President moves from one pillar to another and from one post to another, high on the fueled government car, raising his Kaunda, there are high chances of him vilifying the Judiciary and proposing new tax measures that are obviously chocking the hustling nation to its core, however to him, we're building a new "Singapore" in African with our own taxes under his hands.

 

The Presidency arrogance of defying court orders does not only show how "the son of a chicken seller" supremacy but send a resounding warning of an emerging regime that smell and stink like Nyayo era.

Yes, we understand that the Presidential president is a student of science and has absolutely little knowledge on matters to do with governance, however the existence of three arms of the government: the Judiciary, executive and legislature are not flower girl institutions but are core hands that helps in the running of the government. The existence of doctrine of separation of power by scholars was not a mere work but paramount that helps in running of a democratic government.

The president is obligated to respect the rule of law regardless of how many cries and intimidation he directs to the Judiciary while on top of public acquired vehicle. Currently, his utterance and defiance resemble the famous King in the Bible who shrugged off the advice of elders and the cleric can explain well the ending of that King.

Instead of the president protesting against the court at least he should be a leader and avoid embarrassments of quoting the constitution he raised in Kasarani wrongly. The president should be presidential enough to listen at least to the cleric who stood with his ambitions in the altar, their cries at Ufungamano House represent the cries against the God chosen regime the president is driving. To do that, the president should face the facts and avoid communication that wage arrogance because the president is a symbol of national unity and the nation cannot be united with his words.