Kenya Methodist University scooped the top spot during the inaugural Top Story Investigative journalism challenge in Nakuru. University of Nairobi and Maseno University came second and third respectively. The competition was held between October 15- October 19
The challenge organised by Africa On Air and the European Centre for Journalism a Dutch based organisation required the students to investigate a mock story and present a written article after forty eight hours
Joseph Warungu the Director, Africa On Air says the main reason was to provide the students with invaluable experience on investigative journalism.
“We are happy this is happening in Africa for the first time more so Kenya. We sought to bring universities offering media studies to give them a starting to how investigative journalism is done,” he added.
The veteran journalist who works for the BBC was a mentor to the students alongside John Allan Namu of KTN.
As the 48 hours elapsed each team was vigorously trying to beat the deadline of the article submission. They walked through several places where the news sources were within Nakuru Town followed by a camera crew for each team.
Before the gala, the judges Dennis Okari- BBC, Alex Chamwada and Rose Lukalo Owino had to go through the articles then shortlist the teams. There were five teams left gunning for top spot.
Methodist University Lecturer, Christine Nduku said she was excited about the win saying they worked hard to earn it.
Dr Charles Nyambuga from Maseno University said time he was happy with his team even though they missed being winners.
By Don King
