Kenya’s leading digital platform, Mwelekeo TV, has once again rubber-stamped itself as the home of truth and inspirational stories.
During a recent episode of its engaging campus segment, viewers were taken through a conversation that many university students in Kenya will easily relate to.
The episode titled Campus Life: HELB, Exam Panic and Crazy Survival at UoN brings together host Jamaima Ihabi and Magak, a journalism and mass communication student at the University of Nairobi. What unfolds in their discussion is not just another campus talk, but a real reflection of the lives many young people are living while chasing their dreams in university.
From academic pressure to the struggle of surviving on limited finances, the conversation paints a picture that feels familiar to thousands of Kenyan students.
A generation driven by ambition
Early in the discussion, Magak explains that his decision to pursue journalism was guided by passion. For him, the course is not simply about getting a degree and moving on with life. It is about understanding society and telling stories that matter.
Like many young journalists in training, he also has a strong interest in politics. During the interview, he openly shares that he may one day venture into political leadership.
Magak says he draws inspiration from figures such as Deputy President Professor Kithure Kindiki, who moved from academia into national politics. To him, that journey shows that the classroom can be a starting point for much bigger roles in society.
The conversation also sheds light on academic life at the University of Nairobi. Magak says campus exams are manageable when students stay disciplined and make good use of available resources.
He spends time revising through the university library and online academic materials, which he says make studying more focused.
He also speaks highly of some lecturers who have made a strong impression on students. Among them is Dr Paul, who teaches information sourcing and philosophy. According to Magak, his teaching style connects classroom lessons with the real media industry.
The reality of comradeship
While ambition remains strong, financial pressure is something many students cannot escape.
Magak describes what students commonly call the “broke comrade life”. For many learners, surviving in university involves careful budgeting for food, transport and other daily needs.
The Higher Education Loans Board plays a key role in supporting students. However, Magak notes that the amount many students receive, usually between KSh 20,000 and KSh 30,000 per semester, rarely meets the actual cost of living.
He believes that students realistically require closer to KSh 40,000 or even KSh 60,000 to comfortably get through the semester.
Transport and meals take the biggest share of student spending. For those living outside campus, the daily cost of commuting quickly eats into their budget.
At times, some students even consider borrowing money from digital loan apps when finances run dry. Magak admits that he has had moments where he almost turned to such options, a situation that many young people across the country understand all too well.
Finding simple ways to enjoy campus life
Despite the challenges, Magak believes students can still find balance in campus life.
Interestingly, his definition of fun is quite different from the typical party lifestyle often associated with university students. Instead of spending heavily on nightlife, he prefers relaxing and focusing on personal interests.
For him, enjoyment does not always require money or crowded social scenes.
He also advises students who have the opportunity to stay in university hostels to take it seriously. According to him, living within campus can reduce the stress and financial burden that comes with daily commuting.
A platform that tells real stories
Episodes like this show why Mwelekeo TV is steadily becoming a favourite among viewers looking for meaningful conversations.
The platform does not simply chase viral content. Instead, it focuses on stories that reflect the real experiences of young people across the country.
By giving students space to speak openly about their dreams, struggles and everyday life, Mwelekeo TV continues to build a platform that informs, inspires and connects with its audience.
In many ways, the latest campus episode is more than just a discussion. It is a reminder that behind every university student is a story of determination, resilience and hope for a better future.
And through such honest storytelling, Mwelekeo TV is making sure those stories are heard.