Yahya Gondosio
October 26, 2015
Universities have turned out to be breeding grounds for many immoral characters. Luka Vincent Muindi a Law Student and student leader from the University of Nairobi speaks to VarCity on his thoughts on what is ailing our institutions of higher learning;
INTRODUCE YOURSELF TO OUR READERS AND TELL US WHAT YOU DO:
I am a 24 year-old, 3rd year law student at the University of Nairobi and Module 2 class representative.
WHAT GOT YOU INTO STUDENT LEADERSHIP AND HOW DID YOU EARN YOUR CURRENT POSITION AND ARE THERE ANY BENEFITS THAT COME WITH BEING A STUDENT’S REPRESENTATIVE?
Leadership is a calling. I feel I am better placed to articulate issues affecting my fellow comrades. As you understand University leaders are chosen through a democratic process and I was democratically chosen. Unlike other aspirants who exhibit extravagance while campaigning for various positions I was able to use very minimal funds which I got through lobbying from fellow student.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE THE SHAKY RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STUDENTS AND THE UNIVERSITY MANAGEMENT?
Young people are very fragile to handle and it is therefore very important to know how well to handle them. I am very keen and always give a listening ear to my fellow comrades. So communication is key.
THE ISSUE OF ALCOHOL ABUSE AND DRUG MISUSE IN UNIVERSITIES IS VERY DEEP-ROOTED, HOW CAN THIS MENACE BE TACKLED?
Not much can be done on issues of alcohol since University students are adults and it is a matter of choice. The important thing is to ensure such things are not taken during learning hours and institute tough measures for those who flout such rules.
AS A STUDENT AND A LEADER, WHAT OTHER CHALLENGES DO YOU THINK NEED TO BE ADDRESSED IN OUR HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTIONS?
The issue of radicalization is real. Students are not only being radicalized into terrorism organizations but also ethnic and political extremism. We need a forum to address such issues. An all-inclusive forum will go a long way in raising awareness on some of these issues.
SO WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT FROM YOU IN THE NEAR FUTURE?
I am a leader and I want to continue serving diligently. God-willing next year I will be vying for SONU’s chairmanship and I also have political ambitions. Possibly in the 2017 General elections I will be vying for a seat in the National Assembly.
