Hello there!
As i sat through one of my classes earlier this week, a debate stormed surrounding the issue of Arab countries. Many said that they have to be situated at the gulf, while others retorted that they must speak Arabic. Others went as far as suggesting they must be able to write in Arabic. As always, my thoughts begin swirling around "controversies" if you will.
Let me start by saying Arabic is a language spoken by most of the Middle East people along with Northern Africans. Just like any language, it too has variations spreading over geographical regions.
To be more specific now, Arabic consists of Arabic alphabets. Many countries such as Iran and Pakistan use these alphabets to write in their own language. Pakistanis use the language Urdhu to communicate, however they use the Arabic alphabets to write it. The common misconception is that a country such as Pakistan would therefore be considered an Arab nation when it isn't the case.
Another error arising from the topic of Arabic and its speakers is the issue of Americanization. Scholars from America who studied Arabic seem to have the last say on how words should be pronounced, before spreading it all over the world. A good example is the word Al- Shabbab. If one has truly studied Arabic, they will know the letter "shiin" is a solar letter, thus though written as an "al" its pronounces as an "ash" making it Ash- >>Shabaab. Despite such an error, CNN was first to report the group as Al-Shabbab; beginning the revolution of the word.
These are but a few examples of misconceptions created. Such examples make me wonder if these are real misconceptions or truly instances of pure ignorance?
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
MY SINCERE APOLOGIES
Hello web wizards!
I would like to apologize for my absence from the blog. My reasons are sincere! Poor internet connections, banned blogging from campus, constant power cuts along with mammoth amounts of work have kept me away. Yes, the Fall Semester is into its fifth week as it takes its toll on me, challenging my time management skills.
I am hoping this is the first of many more blogs this semester, as i fight to balance my academic, social and blogging responsibilities. Keep close to this page for more thought provoking and eye opening articles.
Have yourselves a blessed day!
I would like to apologize for my absence from the blog. My reasons are sincere! Poor internet connections, banned blogging from campus, constant power cuts along with mammoth amounts of work have kept me away. Yes, the Fall Semester is into its fifth week as it takes its toll on me, challenging my time management skills.
I am hoping this is the first of many more blogs this semester, as i fight to balance my academic, social and blogging responsibilities. Keep close to this page for more thought provoking and eye opening articles.
Have yourselves a blessed day!
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
ITS FUNNY WHAT THE MEDIA CAN DO...
Good day bloggers!
As i turned on the telly to get my daily dose of global news, i couldn't help but notice the power the media has on society. The power is displayed right in our faces, yet many of us take no notice!
Many scholars have devoted their lives to debating whether or not the media really has such an enormous impact on us as it is claimed; many theories created as a result. Some of the most studied theories include: magic bullet theory, two step theory, gate-keeping theory, spiral of silence, uses and gratification theory as well as agenda-setting theory.
However, if examined closely, none of the media related theories refute the power of the press, but dwell on the extent at which it impacts the society (if at all).
Theories are better understood when put within familiar environs- media examples. When media doesn't cover a story of newsworthy value, many people would argue that it never really happened! If it's not reported on, it didn't happen.
The media has the ability to divert the audience's attention to a societal or political concern of their choice simply by priming a story (highlighting it). This also includes framing the story so as to raise importance in the audience's minds.
Advertising is one area that needs no introduction. The media portrays a desired lifestyle or product in order to reach their consumers. It is also done by linking products to influential members of society- two step theory (Nike using soccer players to sell their products).
These are but a few examples exhibiting the power of the media. However, power is nothing without control. By media possessing power, it is us to decide whether to consume media as passive or active users. It is our decisions that have the ultimate say on the how truly powerful the media is.
As i turned on the telly to get my daily dose of global news, i couldn't help but notice the power the media has on society. The power is displayed right in our faces, yet many of us take no notice!
Many scholars have devoted their lives to debating whether or not the media really has such an enormous impact on us as it is claimed; many theories created as a result. Some of the most studied theories include: magic bullet theory, two step theory, gate-keeping theory, spiral of silence, uses and gratification theory as well as agenda-setting theory.
However, if examined closely, none of the media related theories refute the power of the press, but dwell on the extent at which it impacts the society (if at all).
Theories are better understood when put within familiar environs- media examples. When media doesn't cover a story of newsworthy value, many people would argue that it never really happened! If it's not reported on, it didn't happen.
The media has the ability to divert the audience's attention to a societal or political concern of their choice simply by priming a story (highlighting it). This also includes framing the story so as to raise importance in the audience's minds.
Advertising is one area that needs no introduction. The media portrays a desired lifestyle or product in order to reach their consumers. It is also done by linking products to influential members of society- two step theory (Nike using soccer players to sell their products).
These are but a few examples exhibiting the power of the media. However, power is nothing without control. By media possessing power, it is us to decide whether to consume media as passive or active users. It is our decisions that have the ultimate say on the how truly powerful the media is.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
UNEQUAL DEVEOPMENT
Hey guys!
Hope you're all okay. I have been basking in the sun down in Mombasa- still am for another two weeks. I took time out to publish my thoughts on the issue of unequal development.
As I watched the Prime time news, I couldn't help but notice how unequally developed my country is. However, this is common in almost all countries. Why? Why do some parts of the nation be treated superior to the other? Is it somehow linked to current politics? Is everything linked to politics?
Taking Kenya as a case study, we notice that Nairobi is the most developed city in the country. Incidentally, that is where the President's Office is; along with the elite crème de la crème of society. This requires it to be beefed up to the society's desires.
At the President's home (destination withheld), it is claimed to boast one of the best road networks in the country, yet the whole nation suffers massive potholes and uneven roads (some cases, funds have already been allocated for their betterment). Why?
The whole North Eastern part of Kenya is almost a desert! Reasons? "Under-developed", Minimal human inhabitants, unfavourable climate, high crime rate among many others. As a result of neglection by the government, Kenya is losing an enormous virgin land to desertification. This land if exploted well can earn the country millions of shillings annually.
At one point in history it had very fertile lands, now all that remains are gold stacks of grass. In early 2000-2001, almost 400,000 Somalis crossed the border to seek refuge in our country. This should have been the best reason not to turn a blind eye to the development of the region- yet that is what exactly happened. Why?
Kenya has the potential to grow economically if resources available are put to good use, and development occurs in a wide-spread manner rather than centralizing the process. If we truly use our resources effectively, aim at development beyond a centralized point and invest, Kenya truly has great potential in becoming the powerhouse in East, Central and Southern Afirca! What is there to stop us if we have man power, resources and effective leadership? The only result that can come out of such an enticing mixture is the recipe of success!
Hope you're all okay. I have been basking in the sun down in Mombasa- still am for another two weeks. I took time out to publish my thoughts on the issue of unequal development.
As I watched the Prime time news, I couldn't help but notice how unequally developed my country is. However, this is common in almost all countries. Why? Why do some parts of the nation be treated superior to the other? Is it somehow linked to current politics? Is everything linked to politics?
Taking Kenya as a case study, we notice that Nairobi is the most developed city in the country. Incidentally, that is where the President's Office is; along with the elite crème de la crème of society. This requires it to be beefed up to the society's desires.
At the President's home (destination withheld), it is claimed to boast one of the best road networks in the country, yet the whole nation suffers massive potholes and uneven roads (some cases, funds have already been allocated for their betterment). Why?
The whole North Eastern part of Kenya is almost a desert! Reasons? "Under-developed", Minimal human inhabitants, unfavourable climate, high crime rate among many others. As a result of neglection by the government, Kenya is losing an enormous virgin land to desertification. This land if exploted well can earn the country millions of shillings annually.
At one point in history it had very fertile lands, now all that remains are gold stacks of grass. In early 2000-2001, almost 400,000 Somalis crossed the border to seek refuge in our country. This should have been the best reason not to turn a blind eye to the development of the region- yet that is what exactly happened. Why?
Kenya has the potential to grow economically if resources available are put to good use, and development occurs in a wide-spread manner rather than centralizing the process. If we truly use our resources effectively, aim at development beyond a centralized point and invest, Kenya truly has great potential in becoming the powerhouse in East, Central and Southern Afirca! What is there to stop us if we have man power, resources and effective leadership? The only result that can come out of such an enticing mixture is the recipe of success!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
GLOBAL WARMING- ENTIRELY TRUE?
So i turn on the telly to get my mind off the hunger trying to overcome me- I'm fasting. I flip through the channels and Al-Jazeera grabs my attention. There was a report on the global warming effecting the the slow disintegration and separation of the icebergs in Greenland. This led me to think; Is global warming as big as it is claimed to be? Are these as a resulting of the increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere?
My stand on this contentious issue is simple; it is there but blown out of proportion. Global warming is just the experts' lazy excuses of why such icebergs melt. I believe that though global warming does play a part in melting icebergs, it is not the sole reason for the detachments of them as witnessed on telly.
In a bid to raise awareness on the catastrophic effects resulting from global warming, many experts magnify the magnitude by highlighting it as the sole contributor to the spliting of icebergs.
I also believe that governments are using global warming as revenue earner. Governments are now imposing limits on the amounts of green house gases being ejected into the atmosphere. Industries that exceed the limits are fined heavily. Some countries (identities withdrawn) are paying money to the government in accordance to the amount of waste that is being released into the atmosphere. Is that out of true concern for the planet? or just another sly way of extorting companies out of millions of shillings?
If this is truly a concern, experts should delve in to the idea of how to minimize emissions, governments should close down industries producing excess amounts of green house gases (planet before money), industries should turn to alternative sources to reduce pollution, citizens should embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle among many other solutions.
I do acknowledge the efforts made by individuals and companies that are tirelessly trying to come up with "safer" alternatives to reduce pollution for instance solar powered cars. However, such a vision for the betterment of a nation is not a one man job, but rather a collective effort that includes the entire population for it to work. However,a journey of a thousand miles starts with the first step. Let these inventions be the stepping stone for a better future.
My stand on this contentious issue is simple; it is there but blown out of proportion. Global warming is just the experts' lazy excuses of why such icebergs melt. I believe that though global warming does play a part in melting icebergs, it is not the sole reason for the detachments of them as witnessed on telly.
In a bid to raise awareness on the catastrophic effects resulting from global warming, many experts magnify the magnitude by highlighting it as the sole contributor to the spliting of icebergs.
I also believe that governments are using global warming as revenue earner. Governments are now imposing limits on the amounts of green house gases being ejected into the atmosphere. Industries that exceed the limits are fined heavily. Some countries (identities withdrawn) are paying money to the government in accordance to the amount of waste that is being released into the atmosphere. Is that out of true concern for the planet? or just another sly way of extorting companies out of millions of shillings?
If this is truly a concern, experts should delve in to the idea of how to minimize emissions, governments should close down industries producing excess amounts of green house gases (planet before money), industries should turn to alternative sources to reduce pollution, citizens should embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle among many other solutions.
I do acknowledge the efforts made by individuals and companies that are tirelessly trying to come up with "safer" alternatives to reduce pollution for instance solar powered cars. However, such a vision for the betterment of a nation is not a one man job, but rather a collective effort that includes the entire population for it to work. However,a journey of a thousand miles starts with the first step. Let these inventions be the stepping stone for a better future.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
"DEVELOPMENT"
Dear ICT consumer,
Once again I must apologize for my absence in the blogging world. My reasons are honest; had to study as I had exams! Cliché right? Either way, it is true! This concludes my apology. Thank you.
As I studied for my exams, questions twirled in my mind. These are the questions that many students ask themselves, desperately searching for the answers. Why do learn things we won't “need” in the future? Why do lecturers “torture” us with exams? Will I ever find a job in this developing country?
The last question really had me thinking. In my country, the unemployment rate is at a staggering 40% The average Kenyan lives under a dollar a day. Most of the population fall under the umbrella of sub-standards of living. However, does that mean we give up? NO!
The world has derived terms that disintegrates the society rather than uniting us. One such term is development. Who defies the term development? According to whose “desirable” standards did this phenomenon come from? Is it limited only to a large scale?
As a result, many countries strive to be recognized as developed nations; Kenya included. Despite various setbacks in our aim for “development”, we shouldn't give up. Let us not develop so as to fit in with the society, but develop at our own pace for the betterment of our nation. As much as we are seen to be staying stagnant in terms development, through my eyes development has already occurred. Development is seen in the free public primary school education benefiting thousands of children, almost 17 million phone users embracing technology, a peaceful referendum voting process proving the world Kenya is peaceful, embracing a new Constitution after the struggles of the past 20 years, Increasing revenue brought in by tourism and even an improve in infrastructure.
Yes, there have been struggles and hiccups, but these are unavoidable circumstances. True character is derived from how these struggles are overcome. I do not necessarily back all the methods of overcoming the issues of development in our country, but I believe that is being done in good faith.
In our quest for “development”, we should use the “developed” countries as our case studies. Borrowing certain aspects from different nations builds a nation exhibiting open- mindness and one that embraces diversity. We can borrow the idea of flexi-time working hours from the US, part time jobs from Canada, improved pension schemes from UK, better road networks from China, online jobs from Australia among many ideas. However, let us not let foreign ideas dull our sense of innovation or our close ties to culture, but rather augment our already intact systems of status-quo.
Once again I must apologize for my absence in the blogging world. My reasons are honest; had to study as I had exams! Cliché right? Either way, it is true! This concludes my apology. Thank you.
As I studied for my exams, questions twirled in my mind. These are the questions that many students ask themselves, desperately searching for the answers. Why do learn things we won't “need” in the future? Why do lecturers “torture” us with exams? Will I ever find a job in this developing country?
The last question really had me thinking. In my country, the unemployment rate is at a staggering 40% The average Kenyan lives under a dollar a day. Most of the population fall under the umbrella of sub-standards of living. However, does that mean we give up? NO!
The world has derived terms that disintegrates the society rather than uniting us. One such term is development. Who defies the term development? According to whose “desirable” standards did this phenomenon come from? Is it limited only to a large scale?
As a result, many countries strive to be recognized as developed nations; Kenya included. Despite various setbacks in our aim for “development”, we shouldn't give up. Let us not develop so as to fit in with the society, but develop at our own pace for the betterment of our nation. As much as we are seen to be staying stagnant in terms development, through my eyes development has already occurred. Development is seen in the free public primary school education benefiting thousands of children, almost 17 million phone users embracing technology, a peaceful referendum voting process proving the world Kenya is peaceful, embracing a new Constitution after the struggles of the past 20 years, Increasing revenue brought in by tourism and even an improve in infrastructure.
Yes, there have been struggles and hiccups, but these are unavoidable circumstances. True character is derived from how these struggles are overcome. I do not necessarily back all the methods of overcoming the issues of development in our country, but I believe that is being done in good faith.
In our quest for “development”, we should use the “developed” countries as our case studies. Borrowing certain aspects from different nations builds a nation exhibiting open- mindness and one that embraces diversity. We can borrow the idea of flexi-time working hours from the US, part time jobs from Canada, improved pension schemes from UK, better road networks from China, online jobs from Australia among many ideas. However, let us not let foreign ideas dull our sense of innovation or our close ties to culture, but rather augment our already intact systems of status-quo.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
ALL EYES ON KENYA- Update
An update on the historic poll in Kenya.
The President, Prime Minister and Vice- President were all present at KICC (Kenya International Conference Centre) as attention shifted from the IIEC headquaters at 5.15 p.m
The elite trio were to address Kenyans at 4 p.m. However, they delayed their speech to the public in the hope of the results being finalized.
With the YES team winning with 2.5 million votes at 5 p.m, it was widely believed they had won the referendum day voting; a belief confirmed at 8 p.m
The registered number of voters totaled to 12 million- 71% of whom voted during the poll. The YES team emerged victorious, accumulating 5.94 million votes while the NO team gathered 2.68 million as of 7 p.m.
Prime Minister Raila Odinga led the country in celebrating in the new constitution. However, he did underline that this is by no means a victory for only the YES group, but the nation as a whole. He further emphasized that it is now time for the nation to work together to make the Constitution work for the benefit of the country.
NO campaign influential member, Mr. Ruto concedes defeat in the poll- not in the building of the nation. In his address to the media, he underscored the importance of a meeting between the two parties to reach an agreement on the contentious issues surrounding the new Constitution.
The President has two weeks to which he has to put pen to paper in approval of the Constitution.
On a personal note, I would like to congratulate the IIEC for holding a successful poll, the government for ensuring the security of Kenyans thus far, and most importantly my fellow Kenyans for participating in this historic event, and doing so with harmony.
This poll has exhibited the real spirit of the nation as peaceful people, and disbanding the image placed over us by the global audience during the last general elections.
Kudos Kenya!
The President, Prime Minister and Vice- President were all present at KICC (Kenya International Conference Centre) as attention shifted from the IIEC headquaters at 5.15 p.m
The elite trio were to address Kenyans at 4 p.m. However, they delayed their speech to the public in the hope of the results being finalized.
With the YES team winning with 2.5 million votes at 5 p.m, it was widely believed they had won the referendum day voting; a belief confirmed at 8 p.m
The registered number of voters totaled to 12 million- 71% of whom voted during the poll. The YES team emerged victorious, accumulating 5.94 million votes while the NO team gathered 2.68 million as of 7 p.m.
Prime Minister Raila Odinga led the country in celebrating in the new constitution. However, he did underline that this is by no means a victory for only the YES group, but the nation as a whole. He further emphasized that it is now time for the nation to work together to make the Constitution work for the benefit of the country.
NO campaign influential member, Mr. Ruto concedes defeat in the poll- not in the building of the nation. In his address to the media, he underscored the importance of a meeting between the two parties to reach an agreement on the contentious issues surrounding the new Constitution.
The President has two weeks to which he has to put pen to paper in approval of the Constitution.
On a personal note, I would like to congratulate the IIEC for holding a successful poll, the government for ensuring the security of Kenyans thus far, and most importantly my fellow Kenyans for participating in this historic event, and doing so with harmony.
This poll has exhibited the real spirit of the nation as peaceful people, and disbanding the image placed over us by the global audience during the last general elections.
Kudos Kenya!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
ALL EYES ON KENYA
It is here- the date circled by many Kenyans on their calender. It is the day day people take to the polls to have their final say on the future of the nation.
Voting for the the proposed Constitution commenced at 5 a.m. with 27,000 polling stations being set up; some stations experiencing a delay due to unforeseeable transportation hiccups.
All in all, queues have been long and consisted of many eager voters. The ambiance at polling stations was tranquil. Hope filled the faces of many voters.
The government has tightened security around the country, with each polling station overlooked by the police.
The media along with influential members of the government have commended the public for carrying out voting in such a harmonious manner.
Polling stations are meant to close at 5 p.m, with some stations staying open for a while longer in order to accommodate the lost time due to the hiccups.
Both camps seem to be confident on the outcome of th result. One thing to bear in mind is that this is no competition but the foundation to a better future. Irrespective of the outcome of the votes, peace has to prevail.
Let us hope for the best. I will be back with the results of the votes tomorrow. Till then, have a blessed day!
Voting for the the proposed Constitution commenced at 5 a.m. with 27,000 polling stations being set up; some stations experiencing a delay due to unforeseeable transportation hiccups.
All in all, queues have been long and consisted of many eager voters. The ambiance at polling stations was tranquil. Hope filled the faces of many voters.
The government has tightened security around the country, with each polling station overlooked by the police.
The media along with influential members of the government have commended the public for carrying out voting in such a harmonious manner.
Polling stations are meant to close at 5 p.m, with some stations staying open for a while longer in order to accommodate the lost time due to the hiccups.
Both camps seem to be confident on the outcome of th result. One thing to bear in mind is that this is no competition but the foundation to a better future. Irrespective of the outcome of the votes, peace has to prevail.
Let us hope for the best. I will be back with the results of the votes tomorrow. Till then, have a blessed day!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
SHAME ON YOU PASTOR TERRY JONES
Good afternoon!
Let me first begin by apologizing for my lack of input in the blogsphere. The last week has been really hectic for me, with dozens of assignments to hand in along with revising for my end of semester exams. The Internet connection too wasn't on my side.
As i browsed through websites to get in touch with the outside world, i came across what i must say is a sickening article. I have nothing against the reporter, but everything against event being covered.
"Church plans Quran-burning event" by Lauren Russell, posted on the 31st of July, 2010 on CNN.
The article revolves around the portrayal of "Islam is of the devil". In this article, i picked up two unspeakable quotes by Pastor Terry Jones.
"We believe that Islam is of the devil, that it's causing billions of people to go to hell, it is a deceptive religion, it is a violent religion and that is proven many, many times."
"I mean ask yourself, have you ever really seen a really happy Muslim? As they're on the way to Mecca? As they gather together in the mosque on the floor? Does it look like a real religion of joy?"
What is even more disappointing is that it comes from a Pastor of a Church- a title depicted by in-depth knowledge on religion, humble, peaceful and righteous individual.
The comments he made about Islam as a religion are shocking and offending to all Muslims. The naivety and ignorance of the Pastor is highlighted, along with his total disrespect to a religion followed by millions of poeple.
The core of this issue is tied down to the September 11 attacks on America. Even since, Islam as a religion has been scrutinized by many.
Why are we being singled out as terrorists? Why then are Muslims subjected to thorough investigations upon an act of terrorism being carried out?
Let me draw some similarities between Christianity and Islam.
They both have Religious scripts that are followed by millions of believers.
Just like Christianity, Islam has also split into sects depending on different beliefs and interpretations of their respective Scripts.
Both religions are connected together through the time of one Prophet, Jesus as the Christians call him. However, their beliefs split when the Muslims believed that the man on the cross wasn't the prophet, and that he had ascended to the Heavens, where as Christians believed that indeed Jesus was crucified.
Both religions have their do's and don'ts.
These few yet significant similarities suggests that both religions come from one religion a long time ago, before their beliefs split.
There is no right or wrong religion-everyone is entitled to their own beliefs. We must also respect each other irrespective of their beliefs, and must not undermine each other as we dive into discussions pertaining to segregation rather than integration.
Just because some Muslims have been involved in crimes, that does not give society the right to criticize his religious beliefs, branding it "devil". Some people have different interpretations of their Holy scripts. It comes down to the Religious books and how an individual interprets it. Criticizing the interpretation, though hurtful, is much better than criticizing the Religious book and its history.
Freedom of worship is highly recommended, and can be augmented by withdrawing from hate-speech against religions.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my disappointment in the Pastor for his comments, as well as his disrespectful act of holding such an event. Muslims and Christians too are deeply disappointed at the act of ignorance portrayed.
Let me first begin by apologizing for my lack of input in the blogsphere. The last week has been really hectic for me, with dozens of assignments to hand in along with revising for my end of semester exams. The Internet connection too wasn't on my side.
As i browsed through websites to get in touch with the outside world, i came across what i must say is a sickening article. I have nothing against the reporter, but everything against event being covered.
"Church plans Quran-burning event" by Lauren Russell, posted on the 31st of July, 2010 on CNN.
The article revolves around the portrayal of "Islam is of the devil". In this article, i picked up two unspeakable quotes by Pastor Terry Jones.
"We believe that Islam is of the devil, that it's causing billions of people to go to hell, it is a deceptive religion, it is a violent religion and that is proven many, many times."
"I mean ask yourself, have you ever really seen a really happy Muslim? As they're on the way to Mecca? As they gather together in the mosque on the floor? Does it look like a real religion of joy?"
What is even more disappointing is that it comes from a Pastor of a Church- a title depicted by in-depth knowledge on religion, humble, peaceful and righteous individual.
The comments he made about Islam as a religion are shocking and offending to all Muslims. The naivety and ignorance of the Pastor is highlighted, along with his total disrespect to a religion followed by millions of poeple.
The core of this issue is tied down to the September 11 attacks on America. Even since, Islam as a religion has been scrutinized by many.
Why are we being singled out as terrorists? Why then are Muslims subjected to thorough investigations upon an act of terrorism being carried out?
Let me draw some similarities between Christianity and Islam.
They both have Religious scripts that are followed by millions of believers.
Just like Christianity, Islam has also split into sects depending on different beliefs and interpretations of their respective Scripts.
Both religions are connected together through the time of one Prophet, Jesus as the Christians call him. However, their beliefs split when the Muslims believed that the man on the cross wasn't the prophet, and that he had ascended to the Heavens, where as Christians believed that indeed Jesus was crucified.
Both religions have their do's and don'ts.
These few yet significant similarities suggests that both religions come from one religion a long time ago, before their beliefs split.
There is no right or wrong religion-everyone is entitled to their own beliefs. We must also respect each other irrespective of their beliefs, and must not undermine each other as we dive into discussions pertaining to segregation rather than integration.
Just because some Muslims have been involved in crimes, that does not give society the right to criticize his religious beliefs, branding it "devil". Some people have different interpretations of their Holy scripts. It comes down to the Religious books and how an individual interprets it. Criticizing the interpretation, though hurtful, is much better than criticizing the Religious book and its history.
Freedom of worship is highly recommended, and can be augmented by withdrawing from hate-speech against religions.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my disappointment in the Pastor for his comments, as well as his disrespectful act of holding such an event. Muslims and Christians too are deeply disappointed at the act of ignorance portrayed.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Upon finishing part of my weekend work on campus, i decided to brush through the newspaper.
Voting on the proposed draft constitution is around the corner, and as expected, it hogged the content of the paper. I could not help but reflect on how the media has stirred up alot of interest on this issue. True, it is a serious issue that concerns all Kenyans, but does it really deserve all the media attention it gets?
I for one feel that though 4th August will be the day many Kenyans have been dreaming of. However, i stand against the use of media in educating the population on this topic. We are well aware that the media is run by the group of elite, however this doesn't give them the right to use the media to paint their view of reality.
Everyday i go through the newspaper, watch telly or listen to the local radio stations, there is always some advert on the draft constitution. I feel that the power of media has been abused so as to cater for the personal needs of the big shots. The media has begun setting agendas, and not for the right reasons.
Ads on telly, radio and the papers either support or reject the draft constitution, and base it on two aspects; portraying either the negative side of the opposition, or highlighting the positive side of their stand on this contentious issue.
The media highlights these differences mainly to the advantage of the elite, who abuse media by using it as a tool for propaganda. They intelligently frame it so that in co-operates the interest of the people in order to rally support for their hidden motives.
If only there was a media house that would call a spade a spade and kick out the charade that has found its way into making such an important decision. Media houses should emerge truly as the servant to the masses and clearly state the pros and cons of the new constitution. Media ownership is the main reason for such adverts, but that discussion is for another day.
Your views are highly appreciated.
Voting on the proposed draft constitution is around the corner, and as expected, it hogged the content of the paper. I could not help but reflect on how the media has stirred up alot of interest on this issue. True, it is a serious issue that concerns all Kenyans, but does it really deserve all the media attention it gets?
I for one feel that though 4th August will be the day many Kenyans have been dreaming of. However, i stand against the use of media in educating the population on this topic. We are well aware that the media is run by the group of elite, however this doesn't give them the right to use the media to paint their view of reality.
Everyday i go through the newspaper, watch telly or listen to the local radio stations, there is always some advert on the draft constitution. I feel that the power of media has been abused so as to cater for the personal needs of the big shots. The media has begun setting agendas, and not for the right reasons.
Ads on telly, radio and the papers either support or reject the draft constitution, and base it on two aspects; portraying either the negative side of the opposition, or highlighting the positive side of their stand on this contentious issue.
The media highlights these differences mainly to the advantage of the elite, who abuse media by using it as a tool for propaganda. They intelligently frame it so that in co-operates the interest of the people in order to rally support for their hidden motives.
If only there was a media house that would call a spade a spade and kick out the charade that has found its way into making such an important decision. Media houses should emerge truly as the servant to the masses and clearly state the pros and cons of the new constitution. Media ownership is the main reason for such adverts, but that discussion is for another day.
Your views are highly appreciated.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
END OF THE WEEK BREAK- PPPSH!
So, its the end of the week again. After a hectic week in which i spent close to 37 hours on campus, it has come to an end!
I should be glad right? Wrong! The weekend is just an excuse for relaxation when i won't have time for that. To inc-operate into my weekend are two math assignments, one group work presentation, one group report and a term paper. The sad bit is that the above is the work that i can remember, there's more that has evaded me.
Hope i manage this mammoth workload! How are things on your end?
I should be glad right? Wrong! The weekend is just an excuse for relaxation when i won't have time for that. To inc-operate into my weekend are two math assignments, one group work presentation, one group report and a term paper. The sad bit is that the above is the work that i can remember, there's more that has evaded me.
Hope i manage this mammoth workload! How are things on your end?
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
SWEET ESCAPE
So, i went to class hoping the lecture would cancel for some reason- if only hopes such as that came true.
"Where is my work?" demanded my lecturer with a voice sounding like raw electricity. Panic rose in me as he was in no joking mood. As he walked around class collecting assignments, i mischievously sneaked out of the 10 by 10 meter classroom and into the hallway.
To avoid juicy details and protect my image from being tainted by my violations of academic rules, i returned to class just before it ended.
"Sorry sir for my absence, i had a family emergency. Here is the assignment. I will bring in a note to prove my absence in the next class."
Hmmm.. come next class, i will definitely have a letter from my parent- without his knowledge of it!
"Where is my work?" demanded my lecturer with a voice sounding like raw electricity. Panic rose in me as he was in no joking mood. As he walked around class collecting assignments, i mischievously sneaked out of the 10 by 10 meter classroom and into the hallway.
To avoid juicy details and protect my image from being tainted by my violations of academic rules, i returned to class just before it ended.
"Sorry sir for my absence, i had a family emergency. Here is the assignment. I will bring in a note to prove my absence in the next class."
Hmmm.. come next class, i will definitely have a letter from my parent- without his knowledge of it!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
My life
So i start off my day having to wake up early in the morning thanks to my annoying ring tone! the compensation for waking up that early is that the phone call was someone... pleasant :p
I go to campus on a Sunday just to do some work that is due tomorrow. As usual, luck deserts me as i am early, hence waste half an hour of my time waiting for the computer lab to open.
As if that is not enough, there is no Internet connection due to maintenance! Just my luck! The cybers are closed, and i am have no other alternative to do my research ( Books wont help)
I better cook up a good excuse to let me off the hook! I'm thinking along the lines off "Ow! its due this Monday! My bad!"
Wish me luck!
I go to campus on a Sunday just to do some work that is due tomorrow. As usual, luck deserts me as i am early, hence waste half an hour of my time waiting for the computer lab to open.
As if that is not enough, there is no Internet connection due to maintenance! Just my luck! The cybers are closed, and i am have no other alternative to do my research ( Books wont help)
I better cook up a good excuse to let me off the hook! I'm thinking along the lines off "Ow! its due this Monday! My bad!"
Wish me luck!
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