Dr Sam Kamau, a pioneer faculty member at AKU's Graduate School of Media and Communications (GSMC), came from a humble background. Raised by a single mother in the Kenyan highlands, his mother worked hard to ensure he got a good education.
Here is his account of his academic journey and future plans.
“I started my academic journey at the University of Nairobi, my undergraduate degree was in Education specializing in Linguistics and Literature. I then switched to Communication for my Masters and PhD Studies. I have an enduring interest in the intersection between Politics, Communication and Technology, most of my research work has focused on the evolving role of social media in the civic space.
Before joining AKU, I spent eight years teaching at the University of Nairobi, School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
I first heard about AKU's plan to start a premier School for Media and Communication back in 2011. Deep within, I wished I could be part of this dream. In 2015, I learnt they were about to recruit pioneer faculty to start the academic programs. I visited the campus at 9 West n Nairobi for a tour and after I saw the facilities and heard about the vision, I felt convinced I wanted to be part of the next big story in Journalism Education. I was hired as a faculty member and also teach Professional Development Courses.
The best part of what I do is making a lasting impact in the lives of the students. I see myself as a mentor in the classroom and beyond. It's very fulfilling when I meet my former students and they tell me I played a role in shaping who they are. I believe we can all make an impact in our society; the stars are many and no matter where they are placed in the sky, they all shine.
My desire is to make significant contributions to the media and communication research landscape in Africa. I believe in elevating the African perspective in critical debates which are currently dominated and influenced by Europe and North America.
I also have a passion for how government communicates and responds to the needs of its citizens. I have had the privilege of being an advisor to the Kenyan government on public communication, but there's more work to be done.
The research I'm currently working on is examining the role of social media in political polarization through the creation of partisan enclaves. I'm also working on a parallel research study on reviewing the Kenyan government's communication on COVID-19.