The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has highlighted the importance of instilling professionalism at an early stage.
MCK Nakuru Regional Coordinator Joseph Mecha noted the importance of building a reputable career in journalism saying that it begins with integrity.
“This code of conduct is not just a guideline, it’s the backbone of our profession. You should strive to uphold accuracy and fairness in your reporting”, he said while giving a career talk at Egerton University.
He urged the students to ensure they produce truthful, balanced, and objective content while at the same time calling for caution on social media posts stating its impact on personal brand identity.
“It’s essential to recognise that your professional reputation is shaped by what you post. Approach online sharing with the same responsibility as a professional journalist”. he added.
Citizen TV reporter Maryanne Nyambura, while sharing her experiences in the industry, encouraged the students to be determined and resilient as they joined the profession.
“The media industry is fast-paced and often demanding, it will test your perseverance. If you remain passionate and focused, the rewards are worth the effort”, she noted.
She further advised students to explore diverse opportunities within the media and not limit themselves to traditional reporting.
“Don’t confine yourself to a single path. Consider other areas such as communications, public relations and digital content creation. These fields offer valuable experiences and open doors to varied opportunities”, she said.