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  • Hongera Septemba

    Na Mariita,

    Muhula wa Septemba umejawa na matukio mbalimbali ikiwemo michezo ya Falcon, burudani, wiki ya maonyesho ya mila na desturi za Kiafrika, biashara, utandawazi, mkutano wa kukuza mambo ya nje na mahusiano ya kimataifa vilevile kuweka msingi wa ujenzi wa maskani ya wanachuo.

    Hatua hii muhimu ya kulishughulikia suala la maskani, imeibua hisia chanya kwani Naibu Chansela Prof. Ayiro na bodi ya chuo hiki, amefanikisha mchakato wa mradi huu kwa upesi. Kwingineko, mradi wa ujenzi wa Mama Musau- Shule ya Sheria, unazidi kunoga kwani ukitembea kwenye sehemu ya tukio la ufundi, utashibishwa na mizani ya waashi ilivyoimara. Ni wazi kwamba Imani ya wengi sasa imetiwa kwenye kiambo.

    Aidha, kuna hamu kubwa ya kutaka chuo hiki kuangazia mradi ambao wengi watauita ‘MAMA YAO’ kwani kiuhalisia, bila pingamizi na kwa ushawishi mkubwa; Chuo Cha Dayastar kinafahamika nchini na ukandani kama Chuo Cha Mawasiliano. Uvumi wa sifa zake ni kama mawimbi baharini, kuenea kwa ubora huu kumetikisa mashariki na kati. Kiukweli, shule ya mawasiliano imepeperusha bendera na kuwa kama kitambulisho kamili cha Chuo Cha Daystar.

    Kituo chetu cha Redio Ya Shine, mitabendi 99.9 kingali kinafanyiwa ukarabati na hayo ni maendeleo kwenye sekta ya mawasiliano. Zaidi, ingelikuwa bora mno ikiwa kituo cha televisheni, ambacho sio tu kwa kuleta programu mbalimbali zihusianazo na habari, burudani, kupeperusha ibada chuoni na matukio ya ukuaji, kingelipata sehemu mwafaka ambayo ni jengo la shule ya mawasiliano ili kufufua uwajibikaji kwa kutoa motisha na kuwapa kipaumbele wenye talanta mbalimbali.

    Safari ya maendeleo italazimu kila mmoja kujibidiisha ili kudumisha sura ya Chuo na maadili kama mojawapo ya changizo katika kuimarisha ubora wa masomo na uongozi tabithi. Muhula huu wa Septemba unazidi kufunua vyungu vya mabadiliko na vilevile kupekua kurasa za maendeleo mahali mahali.

     

  • Culture Week or Business Week?

    By Janet Wambua

    Culture Week at Athi River Campus is off to a bumpy start, and if you ask some students, it feels more like “Business Week.” Instead of embracing their diverse cultures, many people seem more focused on selling products. Seriously, is this Culture Week or Business Week? From the way things have kicked off, some students are starting to wonder if they missed the memo or if the theme of the week got mixed up with Business Week instead.

    “Honestly, I expected cultural exhibitions or performances. Maybe some traditional food or dances? But everywhere I look, people are just selling stuff,” one student grumbled. “It’s like I walked into a flea market!”

    On the first day, instead of cultural performances or vibrant displays of tradition, most of the action involved selling. Yes, you read that right, students selling everything from clothes, and perfumes to random products. The campus was filled with pop-up stalls, making it feel like a mini-business fair rather than a cultural showcase.

    “I came to embrace my culture, not buy perfumes and soaps,” one baffled student said with a laugh.

    The drama didn’t stop there. Day one kicked off with “Career Wear” as the dress code of the day, but let’s just say, the memo either didn’t reach most students or got lost somewhere along the way. Instead of the suits and sharp office outfits that were expected, most people just did, well, whatever they felt like. Suits? Office wear? Who needs them when you can rock whatever you had on when you rolled out of bed, right?

    “I thought it was ‘Career Wear.’ Does being casual count as a career option?” joked another student, clearly amused by the casual vibes that dominated the campus.

    Don’t get me wrong, some students really embraced the ‘Career Wear’ theme, and they looked nothing short of impressive. Sharp suits, polished shoes, sleek blazers, and tailored trousers, these students showed up ready to turn heads. You could spot them from a mile away, confidently walking around campus as if they were headed to a high stakes board meeting. The ladies, in their well-fitted blouses and elegant office attire, looked poised and professional, while the gentlemen, with their crisp ties and well-ironed shirts, made a strong case for dressing the part. I have to give credit where it’s due and I  truly commend them for the effort. They  brought a sense of sophistication and set the bar high for the rest of us!

    But things took a slight turn today with “Urban/Casual Wear” as the theme. Finally, something people could relate to! After all, who doesn’t love dressing casually? Students nailed the look without much effort mostly because it’s how they dress every other day. So, while it wasn’t the most creative outfit display, it was at least on point.

    “It’s funny how people nailed today’s dress code. Probably because it didn’t require much effort,” one optimistic student pointed out. “But I think it’s only the beginning. The week might surprise us!”

    With the rest of Culture Week still ahead, some students remain hopeful, trusting the process. Who knows? Maybe things will take a more cultural turn soon. I am eagerly anticipating dance performances, storytelling, or maybe even some traditional food that doesn’t come with a price tag. Stay tuned, because who knows what surprises the week holds? By the end, we might witness creative pop-ups blending culture and business, proving that tradition and entrepreneurship are the perfect combination!

    Until then, the campus is buzzing with a mix of disappointment, laughter, and a sprinkle of optimism.

     

  • Carlos Sainz’s perfect weekend to victory

    Written by Nafisa Najmi

    Round 20 of the ongoing Formula One 2024 season was held in Mexico City at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, from the 25th-27th of October. The weekend went perfectly for Sainz as he placed on the top 3 for all the 3 free practice’s held on Friday and Saturday. The Spaniard also went ahead to qualify on pole, sixth one off his career. Max Verstappen, the current leader of the world driver’s championship, and his strongest rival for the championship, Lando Norris, qualified 2nd and 3rd, which had a lot of fans nervous, thrilled and excited for the iconic and unique turn one of this circuit.

    Well turn one, did end up waking all the fans up, as Max Verstappen ended up leading the race on the first lap, but everyone’s attention was not on the front row but at the collision between Yuki Tsunoda and Alex Albon. All the drivers regrouped and were led by the safety car until the end of the 6th lap, Max Verstappen on P1, the man who started on pole behind him with Norris maintaining his position, while Alex and Yuki saw a disappointing end to what could have been a fruitful weekend for both cars, as they were both aiming to end their races in the points.

    Yet the first few laps were just the start of the impeding chaos waiting for the fans, the safety car ended and the drivers got ready to attack and defend their positions. Carlos Sainz managed to get a brilliant overtake on Verstappen which meant he was back at the lead, with three plausible world championship title contenders, Verstappen, Norris and Charles Leclerc, right on his tail. Nevertheless, the most debated part of this weekend happened right after Norris and Verstappen went wheel to wheel for second place, on turn 4 Verstappen forced Norris off the track, gaining a 10 second penalty, which was just the first one. On turn 8 Verstappen was once again penalized for leaving the track and gaining an advantage.

    While these two drivers went head to head, Charles Leclerc was able to overtake both of them and take 2nd place, meaning there was a strong chance that, for the second week in a row Ferrari would have both their drivers on the two top steps of the podium. That was the case for most of the race until Norris managed to close the gap between him and Leclerc. With 8 laps to go Leclerc unfortunately lost his grip on turn 17, barely saving himself from smashing into the barrier. That incident made it easier for Norris to over take him. Leclerc ended up finishing 3rd and an extra reward for fastest lap.

    The chaos the weekend wasn’t just at the front row, the two Mercedes, George Russel and Lewis Hamilton, had a clean but intense battle for 4th place which Lewis Hamilton managed to secure on lap 51. The two drivers from Haas Formula 1 team also managed to bag a double points finish, as Kevin Magnussen got to 7th and Niko Hulkenberg secured 9th. Oscar Piastri who had an unfortunate qualifying managed to get from P17 to P8, helping add crucial points for McLaren’s fight for the constructors. The Alpine of Pierre Gasly also managed to get to the point after holding up a fight, reaching 10th. Max Verstappen even after a 20 second pitstop and exiting on 15th, managed to get to 6th when the race ended.

    In light of the Mexican Grand Prix we do have to discuss home hero, Sergio Perez, who had a home race to forget, fans ready to support the Mexican were disappointed by the unfortunate race he had this week. Starting off by getting a 10 second penalty for a false start, not managing to get into the points, at the end he pitted to be attempt to score the fastest lap point, yet was unsuccessful as Charles Leclerc took the point at the last lap. Another unfortunate end was for Fernando Alonso who was celebrating his 400th race start, but due to a mechanical issue had to retire the car.

    What a spectacle the Mexican Grand Prix was, with 3 DNF’s, intense battles and a huge chunk of points for many teams. The constructor’s championship battle got a whole lost juicier now that Ferrari (537 points) overtook Redbull (512 points) to 2nd place, McLaren leads the Constructors with 566 points. The driver’s championship also seems heated with Norris managing to take 10 points off Verstappen. With 4 race weekends to go, 2 of those include sprint race weekend, this Formula One season is a season to tune into, as the teams and drivers all fight for the top step.

    Onwards to Brazil!

     

     

  • Know yourself

    By Stacey Mary

    One of the many difficult choices we have to make in life is choosing a friend. When to choose, where to meet, and whom to choose is not known but we have to. This is where God comes in to help guide you. When God was creating the world He took six days. He could have chosen to do it all at once in just a day because he possessed the power anyway. After He created things He took a moment to observe and said it was very good. Then He continued with creation.

    The same should be applied to us, look at what you are doing if it’s nice continue with it if it’s not, stop look for where you went wrong, and fix it. What we do attracts the attention of people and from that attention comes relationships. These relationships can either build us or destroy us depending on what we choose to keep and do. If you are hardworking you can’t attract attention from a lazy person but if you do, do you also become lazy or do you lift the other one to be hardworking?

    One thing you should always understand is that in life we don’t always get what we want. But when you get it thank the lord. The one thing you should aim at achieving is being you. Once you become you, trust you, believe in you, and accept you then you are covered. You will trust the process, you will know your worth and what you want in life. So why should I emphasize you being you? It is because of the people in the world. Whatever you do they will always talk and judge, they will always find fault and they will always try to bring you down.

    Once you understand yourself, nothing will bring you down. When you fail you will raise to try till you get it right. You will learn to filter the trash, pick what is necessary, and move on. People have a right to opinion so you can’t control what they say. It is up to you to pick the negative and go down or pick the positive and rise up. We always have a choice just try to make the right one.

     

     

  • Staying Ahead in an Evolving job Market

    By Molly Wasonga

    I’m obsessed with AI, and I’m going to talk about it, again. So, you’re probably sitting there wondering if robots and AI are going to steal all our jobs, leaving us to reminisce about the days when humans were relevant. It’s a hot topic right now, that’s for sure.

    But hold your horses! It’s not as doom and gloom as it sounds. We may be entering an era where humans and AI become the ultimate power couple—think Batman and Robin, but with less crime-fighting and more task efficiency.

    I recently read from an enterprise tech writer and Forbes contributor, Bernard Marr, about the potential impact of AI on the job market, examining whether concerns about AI-driven job displacement are grounded in reality or merely hype.

    This topic has become a source of growing concern, especially among recent graduates and students in higher education institutions. Many are anxious about the future of their careers, fearing that the skills they are currently acquiring may become redundant due to the rapid rise of AI and automation. The future, it seems, is fraught with uncertainty. However, there is a need to clarify misconceptions and provide a more balanced perspective on the matter.

    To begin with, it is important to acknowledge that AI is no longer a hypothetical technology of the distant future, it is already here, and its presence is only expanding. The pertinent question is not whether we will use AI, but rather how we will use it. While AI undoubtedly has the capacity to automate a wide range of repetitive and mundane tasks, this development should not be viewed solely as a threat. Yes, it could potentially displace jobs that involve routine tasks, but it also presents an opportunity for businesses to optimize operations and reduce costs.

    In fact, according to Bernard Marr’s article, AI is projected to contribute an additional $15.7 trillion to global GDP by 2030, signaling a profound shift towards AI integration across industries. This underscores the need for individuals to focus on how they can harness the potential of AI, rather than fearing its rise. Are we approaching a future in which robots and advanced software will take over all the mundane, labor-intensive jobs, allowing us to live lives of leisure? In some cases, the answer is yes. Some jobs will be automated.

    However, it is equally important to highlight that the adoption of AI and automation will also create new opportunities. The World Economic Forum, for instance, has predicted that while 85 million jobs may be displaced, 97 million new jobs will be created as a result of this technological revolution. These figures suggest that while certain roles may evolve or disappear, new ones will emerge, many of which will require a more sophisticated interplay between human and machines.

    The types of jobs most at risk are those that involve simple, routine tasks, such as data entry or basic customer service inquiries, which can be easily automated. McKinsey estimates that up to 45 percent of current work activities could be automated in this way. However, for more complex tasks, AI will play a supportive role, augmenting rather than replacing human skills. For instance, healthcare professionals may use AI to analyze medical images and data, and legal professionals could employ AI to summarize documents and identify key information more efficiently.

    In light of these developments, it is crucial for students and future professionals to embrace AI as a tool that can enhance their work rather than replace them. Developing an understanding of how to work alongside AI, leveraging its capabilities to improve productivity and innovation, will be essential in the evolving job market.

     

  • INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE ON SUICIDE CONFERENCE

    By Sharon Mwazuna

    Mental health is imperative at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood, as our emotional, psychological, and social well-being are all components of mental health. It influences our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It also influences how we respond to stress, interact with others, and make wise decisions. It is widely contemplated that about 46% of people, per research statistics, who die by suicide have a known mental health condition. Symptoms leading to suicidal thoughts such as very low mood, negative thinking, severe anxiety, and psychosis, have an emphatic voice and should not be ignored. Moreover, several factors may put a person at risk of suicide including, but, not limited to a family history of suicide, emotional distress, and stigma among others. Coupling this, suicide and unsound mental health should not be taken seriously.

    Daystar University Nairobi Campus held a dynamic International Conference on Suicide Prevention from October 22nd to 23rd 2024, bringing attention to the importance of mental health and the need for all-encompassing suicide prevention techniques. TINADA, the Kenya Institute of Business and Counseling, the Amani Counselling Center and Training Institute, and the Kenya Counsellors and Psychologists Association (KCPA) were among the stakeholders who attended this conference.

    The two-day conference commenced with a warm welcome from the university’s administration Prof. Faith Nguru DVC ARSA on behalf of Prof. Laban Peter Ayiro, Vice Chancellor, Daystar University, stressing the value of teamwork in mental health programs. In her stirring speech, MBS Secretary to the Cabinet Republic of Kenya, Madam Mercy Wanjau, the Chief Guest, emphasized the critical need for easily accessible support services. She encouraged participants to spread the word about these options in their areas by providing important information about hotlines for reporting suicide and getting assistance, such as 1192 NACADA. Furthermore, she echoed the Government of Kenya’s commitment to addressing the suicide cases in the country and forging mental health awareness through expanding mental health facilities and equipping them, encouraging employers to implement mental health policies in the workplace, and policy and legislative strengthening through the Penal Code (Cap 63).

    The keynote address from Dr. Matilda Mghoi Omollo, CEO of the Counselling and Psychologists Board (C&PB), centered on the part mental health practitioners play in preventing suicide, emphasizing the value of continual education and training in handling the complexity of mental health conditions. She advocated for a multifaceted strategy that incorporates support and involvement from the community.

    Subsequent to the opening addresses, the conference included several presentations from different subject-matter specialists. Following a revitalizing health break, participants participated in enlightening conversations about the latest findings, best practices, and creative strategies for preventing suicide. Abstracts and presentations of surviving suicide case studies from James Kamau and Valentine Wairimu demonstrated how tactics and interventions are used in the real world and that surviving suicide is very feasible, were part of the afternoon sessions. Participants engaged in a vibrant exchange of ideas as presenters shared their findings, emphasizing both achievements and challenges in various circumstances.

    Participants likewise, were able to interact directly with the presenters during a Question-and-Answer session, addressing specific issues and exchanging personal stories about mental health and suicide prevention. This exchange demonstrated the conference’s collaborative spirit and the eagerness of participants to share knowledge.

    Dr. Hassan gave a passionate vote of gratitude to the Chief Guest, delegates, and all participants for their efforts and dedication to mental health awareness as the conference came to a close. During the closing ceremony, awards were given to notable field contributors in recognition of their commitment and influence on suicide prevention initiatives.

    The International Conference on Suicide Prevention at Daystar University not only highlighted the pressing need for action in mental health but also fostered a network of professionals dedicated to making a difference. The partnership of the Kenya Institute of Business and Counseling, TINADA, Amani Counselling Center and Training Institute, and KCPA represents a concerted effort to address the issues of mental health and suicide in Kenya.

    “Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.” Noam Shpancer

     

     

  • Captain Klay Sets Sail: A Farewell to the Splash Brothers Era.

    By Joe Aura, Aurajoe6@gmail.com

    After 13 illustrious seasons with the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson’s journey has marked an end to one of the most iconic partnerships in NBA history—the Splash Brothers. Alongside Stephen Curry, Thompson redefined modern basketball, etching their names into the sport’s annals as two of the greatest three-point shooters ever.

    The Rise of the Splash Brothers

    Klay Thompson, known for his smooth shooting stroke, precision, and calm demeanor, joined the Warriors in 2011, forming a deadly backcourt duo with Curry. They earned the nickname “Splash Brothers” due to their remarkable ability to rain three-pointers from anywhere on the court. Over 13 seasons, the duo led the Warriors to four NBA Championships (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022), becoming a dominant force that revolutionized the league with their style of play.

    Their journey wasn’t just about wins and records; it was about thrilling fans worldwide, turning each game into a shooting spectacle. When Thompson got hot, you could almost hear the collective gasp of anticipation from fans, knowing that any shot he took would likely find the net. Whether it was Curry’s flashy handles or Thompson’s laser-focused jumpers, they made basketball fun, fast, and fierce.

    Captain Klay: More Than Just a Shooter

    Beyond his prowess on the court, Thompson’s love for boating earned him the moniker “Captain Klay.” Frequently spotted cruising the Bay, he brought that same easy-going spirit to his game, never letting the pressure rattle him. His newfound nickname “Sea Captain” is a nod to his love of the water and the calm confidence he exudes—whether navigating choppy waves or sinking threes.

    Klay’s legacy isn’t just about points; it’s about resilience. From dropping a record 37 points in a single quarter to battling back from two major injuries, his journey is a testament to his perseverance. Even after suffering a torn ACL and Achilles, Thompson returned stronger, adding another title to his collection in 2022.

    The End of an Era

    In 2024, as Thompson’s chapter with the Warriors comes to a close, the NBA bids farewell to one of the most formidable duos. The Splash Brothers weren’t just teammates; they were innovators who pushed the boundaries of what was possible, setting new standards for excellence and teamwork.

    For over a decade, the Golden State Warriors fans cheered, celebrated, and sometimes held their breath, knowing that when Curry and Thompson took the floor, magic was bound to happen. Their chemistry was electric, their shooting, pure poetry in motion, and their legacy, untouchable.

    Sailing Toward New Horizons

    As Thompson embarks on new adventures, fans can rest assured that his legacy remains intact. Captain Klay’s story isn’t just about championships and records; it’s about inspiring a new generation to play the game with heart, resilience, and passion.

    The Splash Brothers may no longer be suiting up together, but their impact on the sport is everlasting. And while one chapter closes, another begins for Captain Klay—this time, it might just be on the open seas.

    So, to the player who gave us endless three-point thrills, clutch moments, and unforgettable comebacks, we say thank you. Captain Klay, may your journey be as smooth and swift as your shot, and may the waters you sail be as clear as your vision on the court.

     

  • Erik ten Hag Sucked

    By Joe Aura, Aurajoe6@gmail.com

    “Liverpool and Manchester City play fantastic football, but you will always see an era come to an end — I am looking forward to a battle with them”

    The writing was on the wall. Erik ten Hag’s journey at Manchester United had a few bright spots, but the cracks began to show early. After a dismal start to the season and a string of embarrassing losses, fans and pundits alike began to question how he managed to hold onto his position for as long as he did. Despite calls for his head, he clung on, perhaps buoyed by his past successes or the board’s belief in his ability to turn things around. In the end, it wasn’t enough.

    The Inevitable

    The reasons for Erik ten Hag’s sacking are as clear as day. Under his leadership, Manchester United often looked more like a disoriented group than a cohesive team. Each match seemed to introduce new levels of confusion, with tactical missteps, baffling substitutions, and a struggle to establish a consistent playing style. The team was a far cry from the glory days of Sir Alex Ferguson—a shadow of its former self.

    Arguably, Ten Hag’s biggest criticism was his inability to instill a clear philosophy or style of play at Old Trafford. Under the Dutchman, United was a “moments” team, relying on individual brilliance rather than cohesive play. This was in stark contrast to the cohesive, attractive style he built at Ajax. Managers like Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham, Unai Emery at Aston Villa, and Arne Slot at Liverpool established clear identities for their teams despite less time in charge. Meanwhile, Ten Hag appeared to stumble through matches, relying on big individual moments to score goals rather than a clear tactical pattern. Tactically, he was found out many times. Just last week, he surprised fans by deploying Mazraoui—a fullback—as a No. 10 in a Europa League game, resulting in a 1-1 draw against 10-men Fenerbahce.

    Despite significant investment in new players, many of Ten Hag’s signings failed to adapt to his vision, leading to a chaotic season. How he managed to last as long as he did is a question even the most loyal United fans are still trying to answer. The squad often looked disjointed, lacking the fighting spirit that once defined Manchester United.

    While Ten Hag brought in high-profile players like Casemiro, Varane, and Sancho, many simply didn’t live up to the hype. The inconsistencies on the pitch resulted in a mediocre league standing and early exits from key competitions—an outcome that was unacceptable for a club of United’s stature.

    Fans, still reminiscing over Peter Drury’s poetic narration of Cristiano Ronaldo’s reunion with Manchester United—”Madeira, Manchester, Madrid, Turin, and Manchester again. Restored to this great gallery of the game, a walking work of art, vintage, beyond valuation, beyond forgery or imitation”—were left puzzled. How could a team boasting stars like Ronaldo, Sancho, Pogba, Casemiro, Varane, and De Gea perform so poorly?

    Ten Hag oversaw the spending of around £615 million ($800 million) on players since his arrival at Old Trafford in the summer of 2022. In the Premier League, only Chelsea has spent more in that time. Yet, few of the signings were a success. Many were either Dutch players familiar to Ten Hag or had previously played in the Netherlands. Just this summer, United spent around $240 million on five new signings, including two Netherlands internationals, Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt, and another, Noussair Mazraoui, who played under Ten Hag at Ajax. Undoubtedly the biggest flop has been Antony, who followed Ten Hag from Ajax for $95 million but barely made an impact.

    Despite Ten Hag’s credentials and early promise, his project quickly unraveled, becoming the subject of ridicule among rival fans. How did he survive this long? That’s a mystery only those in the boardroom can explain.

    Dressing Room Conflicts

    Another factor that led to Erik ten Hag’s downfall was the turmoil in the dressing room. The atmosphere behind the scenes was anything but harmonious, with frequent reports of conflict and clashes among players. High-profile outbursts, like Cristiano Ronaldo’s explosive interview criticizing the club and Ten Hag, only added fuel to the fire. The fallout was swift and public, leading to Ronaldo’s abrupt departure—a move that divided fans worldwide.

    It didn’t stop there. Jadon Sancho, another star signing, took to social media to air his grievances after being dropped from the squad, hinting at deeper issues between players and management. These public spats painted a picture of a fractured team, with egos clashing and a lack of unity on and off the pitch. For a club as storied as Manchester United, this level of internal conflict was a clear sign that things had spiraled out of control.

    Despite Ten Hag’s efforts, he could not quell the unrest or create a cohesive environment, and the dressing room disharmony translated directly to inconsistent performances on the field.

    Words That Came Back to Haunt Him

    Ten Hag’s confident remarks about ending Liverpool and Manchester City’s dominance did not age well. While he managed to beat Liverpool once, United ended up conceding a humiliating number of goals in other encounters. Though he did halt Manchester City’s domestic reign for a brief moment with an FA Cup win, such moments of joy were rare. A win is a win, but the fans could hardly savor the success before another disappointing result dampened their spirits.

    Some die-hard supporters celebrated Ten Hag’s sacking, chanting, “The Devils are back!” But even the most optimistic knew the job was far from done. After all, many of the current squad members were brought in by Ten Hag, meaning the next manager will inherit players molded in the Dutchman’s vision. Can someone else get the best out of them, or is this another era of mediocrity?

    Achievements Amid Chaos

    Amid the chaos, there were achievements that shouldn’t be overshadowed. Ten Hag did deliver two trophies in his two seasons—an FA Cup and a League Cup—bringing some joy back to Old Trafford after years of drought. Some even argue that his two-year stint outshone Mikel Arteta’s early seasons at Arsenal. But any sense of superiority faded as the Red Devils plummeted down the table, currently sitting in a lowly 13th place.

    Ten Hag’s bold claim about ending the dominance of clubs like Liverpool and Manchester City didn’t materialize. Though he managed to beat them occasionally, the Red Devils suffered numerous humiliating defeats. For every highlight, there seemed to be two lowlights.

    A Nod to His Ajax Legacy

    There will be sympathy for Ten Hag, who might have been destined to fail because he was a good coach in the wrong place at the wrong time. His entire tenure was marked by upheaval and behind-the-scenes change, whether it was the ownership saga or the recent adjustment to new leadership under Jim Ratcliffe. However, Ten Hag had plenty of money to spend, and he should have done better given the quality of players at his disposal.

    Ten Hag arrived at Manchester United off the back of a successful stint at Ajax, where he masterminded stunning victories over European giants like Real Madrid and Juventus. His Ajax side played a brand of football that was beautiful, disciplined, and lethal, taking them to the Champions League semifinals. He collected multiple league titles in Amsterdam, cementing his reputation as a top-class coach. But the job at United was always going to be a different beast, so tough that even the legendary Zinedine Zidane was rumored to have turned it down.

    The Future for the Hornless Devils

    Ten Hag will leave United with a couple of trophies but far too many big defeats and troubling statistics. United is currently enduring its worst-ever start to a Premier League season—14th place with 11 points after nine games—following its worst finish of eighth in the Premier League era. The 7-0 loss at Liverpool last season was the heaviest defeat at its fiercest rival, its worst competitive defeat in over 90 years, and surely the low point of Ten Hag’s tenure.

    With Ten Hag out, the question is: where does Manchester United go from here? The club’s problems run deep, and simply swapping managers won’t solve them overnight. But for fans, there’s a flicker of hope—a chance that the next appointment could be the one that finally turns things around.

    While Erik ten Hag’s tenure has ended in disappointment, Manchester United’s journey isn’t over. The next steps are crucial. The board must make a calculated decision, bringing in someone who can instill a winning mentality and give the fans something to believe in. Otherwise, the Devils might find themselves in a familiar position next season, facing the same issues and enduring the same frustrations.

    To Manchester United fans: keep the faith. The struggles may seem endless, but every great team has its revival. If there’s one thing to learn from Erik ten Hag’s time at Old Trafford, it’s that even in the darkest moments, there’s always a glimmer of hope. The road back to glory is long, but it’s not impossible.

     

     

  • Why the 2024 U.S. Election Matters for Kenya and Africa’s Future

    The outcome of the 2024 U.S. election is significant for Kenya as it influences key areas including foreign aid, trade, security, and environmental policy in East Africa. Both Democratic and Republican candidates are addressing foreign policy differently, with each approach potentially impacting Africa. While the U.S. presidential race doesn’t usually focus on Africa directly, policy shifts after elections do influence relations across the continent.

    For Kenya, U.S. foreign aid and military support are particularly relevant. Kenya receives substantial assistance for counter-terrorism, especially to combat the Al-Shabaab threat from Somalia. Both major U.S. political parties recognize the strategic importance of Kenya’s role in regional stability, but changes in funding or military engagement policies could reshape support levels. Under a Harris administration, this aid is likely to remain steady with an emphasis on diplomacy and multilateral cooperation. In contrast, a Trump administration might adopt a more selective approach to foreign assistance, potentially redirecting resources based on direct American interests​

    Trade policies are another major concern. Kenya’s recent negotiations with the U.S. for a free trade agreement highlight the growing economic ties. The U.S. election outcome could alter this trade partnership: Democrats may prioritize fair trade and labor standards, impacting Kenyan exports, while Republicans might focus on reducing trade barriers, potentially benefiting Kenyan industries like agriculture and textiles​.

    Environmental policies in the U.S. also affect Kenya, especially regarding climate initiatives. Kenya is vulnerable to climate change, experiencing extreme weather conditions that impact agriculture and water resources. The U.S. under a Democratic administration might lead global climate action, supporting Kenya in sustainability efforts. Conversely, a Republican stance may deprioritize climate funding, slowing support for Kenya’s climate adaptation projects​

    Ultimately, Kenya and other African nations are watching the U.S. election closely, as its results could reshape both direct support and broader policy frameworks that impact Kenya’s security, economy, and development priorities.

  • Daystar University Career Fair 2024

    BY TRACY KAVAI, nyaberakavai@gmmail.com

     

    Nairobi, September 23, 2024 – Daystar University is launching its 2024 Career Fair and Recruitment Drive, aimed at helping students transition from academia to the corporate world.

     

    The week-long event, running from September 23rd to 27th, is organized by the Placement and International Relations Office in partnership with the Graduation Committee and The Education Collaborative.

     

    This year’s theme, “Seamless Transition from Campus to the Corporate World, “reflects the event’s focus on equipping students with essential skills for entering the job market. The grand finale will take place on Friday, September 27th, at the DAC Auditorium on the Nairobi Campus, with plenary sessions, panel discussions, CV reviews, and live recruitment opportunities from 9 AM to 5 PM.

     

    Throughout the week, the fair will feature various in-person and virtual sessions tailored to enhance students’ job search, employability, and interviewing skills. Students will participate in one-on-one sessions with HR professionals to receive personalized CV reviews, LinkedIn profile creation assistance, and advice on using technology such as AI in virtual interviews and remote work.

     

    The fair is not just limited to physical events. A virtual session, scheduled for Wednesday, September 4th, provided guidance on CV and cover letter writing, helping students develop a professional edge ahead of the main event.

     

    The final day, Friday, September 27th, will include networking opportunities with recruiters, interview presentations, and workshops on workplace soft skills and other life skills essential for career growth. The event aims to connect students directly with employers, fostering talent identification and acquisition.

     

    In addition to helping students, the long-term goal of the Career Fair is to raise awareness of the university’s career services and the resources available to support both students and employers in their career advancement.

     

    This event is an invaluable opportunity for students to gain insights into navigating the corporate landscape and sharpen their professional skills in areas such as email etiquette, managing online presence, and exploring remote job opportunities.

     

    Students, especially those graduating this year, are encouraged to attend the week-long event and take full advantage of the tools and connections it offers to support their career aspirations.