By Kemiso Wessie 

Dr Joseph Njuguna, a lecturer at Murang’a University of Technology in Kenya exemplifies a deep commitment to advancing modern journalism and communication education. With a career spanning several years, he is helping new crops of media specialists while also directing the focus on the challenges of technology in society.

He was born and raised in Ndakaini village, in the lush foothills of Kenya’s Aberdare Ranges. Dr Njuguna’s upbringing was rooted in subsistence farming, where he and his siblings tended crops and livestock while schooling.  

From primary school at Ndakaini, he joined Starehe Boys’ School in Nairobi and later earned an undergraduate degree in Information Sciences from Moi University. His academic journey continued with master’s studies at the University of Nairobi and a PhD from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. He also took a certificate course in university teaching from Carleton University in Canada.

His immense love for knowledge in contemporary media issues has motivated him to educate many people in the field of media and communication. “Teaching media issues in contemporary times keeps me at the cusp of learning, discovering new knowledge and new ways of understanding the content that I teach,” he says. He strongly believes journalism education is at the core of the global technological revolution, and he enjoys working together with his students in a co-creative learning setting. 

“Students are quite adventurous with technology,” he notes, appreciating how their interactions with digital tools challenge him to think in new ways. He encourages his students to leverage their skills for sustainable careers, shaping them into active contributors to the evolving media landscape. “It gives me great pride when future practitioners look back and say, ‘Mwalimu (teacher) helped me become the great journalist, PR expert, advertiser or tech innovator I am today.’”

Beyond teaching, Dr Njuguna’s research is at the intersection of media, technology and societal development. His areas of focus include journalism education reforms, women’s empowerment through ICTs, East African regional integration, and the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on religion and morality. 

One of his most thought-provoking studies examines the rise of AI innovations like sex robots and their effects on family relationships and gender representations. “Media stories largely depict women as ‘indispensable’ in the wake of such technology,” he observes. But to what extent do these constructions support or undermine family bonding? These are some of the questions Dr Njuguna says calls for deeper academic interest. He aims to consolidate this work into a book that “Goes to the depth of what media is doing – and should do – to realise the full empowerment of women in East Africa,” he says.

As a consultant, Dr Njuguna has contributed to media research and development initiatives across the region. He is a vocal advocate for modernising curricula and infrastructure of journalism through stronger partnerships between academia and the industry, emphasising the importance of integrating more cutting-edge digital tools and real-world experiences in classrooms.

Dr Njuguna envisions a journalism education system that is inclusive, innovative and aligned with global trends. He champions entrepreneurial journalism, urging students to create their own media and build sustainable careers in an increasingly fragmented industry. He is optimistic about the role of technology in democratising information and fostering critical conversations. 

Currently, he is spearheading research on the effect of community radio on women’s empowerment in Kenya, exploring how localised media can address societal challenges. He is also leading efforts to enhance Murang’a University’s digital media programme by incorporating new technologies to better prepare students for the future.

Despite his busy schedule, Dr Njuguna stays grounded with a straightforward yet rewarding approach to life. “I endeavour to live realistically with my imperfections as a human being,” he says. In his downtime, he enjoys exploring Kenya’s natural wonders. You might find him hiking in the Aberdares, tending to his garden or farming. 

Dr Njuguna’s dinner party guestlist would be a trio of people in the tech, philanthropic and social advocacy spaces. First would be ChatGPT creator and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who would face thought-provoking questions about the future of AI. Next, he would invite Kenyan industrialist Manu Chandaria, whose philanthropic work, especially in tackling unemployment and fostering collective action for the greater good, intrigues Dr Njuguna. The occupant of the third seat is unknown but is reserved for someone passionate about rehabilitating youth from substance abuse and crime, “They need support and encouragement to continue with the great work they do,” he adds.

Through his teaching, research, and advocacy, Dr Njuguna is preparing students to navigate the complexities of a digital-first world while staying true to ethical and inclusive storytelling principles. His work embodies a dual commitment to personal growth and societal progress, making him a guiding light in journalism education and media innovation.