Ten years after the Aga Khan University (AKU) established the Graduate School of Media and Communications (GSMC), the institution is marking a decade of measurable influence on East Africa’s media and communications landscape. Founded with a mission to nurture ethical, skilled, and socially conscious storytellers, GSMC has grown into a critical regional hub for professional excellence, research and public dialogue.
GSMC is commemorating the milestone with a publication titled Stories of Change, capturing the journeys of its alumni. Through powerful imagery, personal reflections and stories of innovation, the book documents how the school’s community has helped shape stronger, more accountable media across the region.
“GSMC didn’t just sharpen my journalism skills,” said Ugandan alumnus Alex Taremwa. “It reshaped how I see my responsibility to society. The training, mentorship, and networks I gained here continue to guide my work every single day. GSMC opened doors for me, and more importantly, it opened my mind.”
“EMMLI gave me the tools to become a better leader. It made me realise the importance of starting with the small things and gradually building towards the bigger ones,” says GSMC alumnus Jamila Mohamed.
Since inception, GSMC has graduated over 150 professionals from its Master of Arts in Digital Journalism and Executive Masters in Media Leadership and Innovation programmes. Alumni now lead influential newsrooms, manage communications for major institutions and contribute to national conversations with renewed confidence and integrity.
"In this rapidly evolving new reality we are facing, the role of the media goes far beyond storytelling," said H.E Sebastian Groth, German Ambassador to Kenya. "Their responsibility is greater than ever. As a School of Media, GSMC stands as a guardian of the civic space and the very infrastructure that allows society to remain open, democratic, and stable."
In 2024, the School launched its newest programme – the Master of Arts in Strategic Communications – welcoming two cohorts to date.
Beyond its academic offerings, GSMC’s Professional Development and Continuing Education (PDCE) programmes have expanded its regional footprint. More than 7200 media and communication professionals across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and beyond have completed short courses on digital strategy, crisis communication, newsroom leadership and gender-responsive reporting. These trainings have directly influenced how stories are framed, whose voices are amplified and how audiences engage with information – strengthening civic participation and public accountability.
GSMC has also become an important centre for research on media sustainability, digital transformation, gender representation and the evolving links between media and democracy. With seven research outputs and more than 100 public forums, masterclasses and conferences, the School has convened global experts, policymakers and industry leaders to address the sector’s most urgent challenges.
As GSMC enters its next decade, the focus remains firmly on innovation and regional relevance.
“Our next chapter is about deepening our impact and widening our reach,” said Professor Nancy Booker, Dean of GSMC. “We are investing in digital transformation, AI-driven training, stronger regional partnerships and more opportunities for African storytellers to thrive. Our foundation is strong – but our future will be even stronger, guided by innovation, integrity, and our commitment to serving society.”
