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| Radio presenter Mbaruk Mwalimu |
Former Radio Maisha presenter Mbaruk Mwalimu has penned an emotional message to upcoming journalists following Standard Group’s announcement of a redundancy notice.
The award-winning media practitioner and creative expressed his sadness over the decline of the Kenyan media industry, which he believes is far from the enviable and highly coveted arena it once was.
This reality, he says, breaks his heart, especially when he thinks of the new crop of young and aspiring journalists still in school with dreams of pursuing a career in the field.
“My heart goes out to all the young men and women studying Mass Communication, Broadcast Journalism, and any media-related courses in tertiary institutions. I sympathize with you. Indeed, the waters are murky, and what’s available now is just a glimpse of the once vibrant industry,” the now Radio47 host wrote on his social media.
Speaking to university students pursuing media-related courses, Mbaruk encouraged them to keep an open mind and learn to be flexible to quickly adjust to the ever-evolving changes, so as to avoid stress that might lead to giving up on their dreams.
“All is not lost! It is my hope and prayer that you change with the times, adjust where possible, and find a niche to run with. The transformation and digital space have significantly disrupted the media,” he concluded in his post.
Earlier today, Standard Media Group issued a notice of redundancy which will affect over 300 employees across various departments.
In a notice seen by Mpasho on Wednesday, the Standard Media Group Board stated that the redundancy will take effect on August 31.
“The redundancy notice takes effect upon expiry of the one-month notice issued today (July 31, 2024) and is expected to affect more than 300 employees across various departments. All the affected employees will be duly informed in writing,” the Board said.
The Group maintains that the affected employees will receive payment for days worked until the date of exit, severance pay of 15 days (or as indicated in the CBA for employees who are members of a union) for every completed year of service.
They will also receive notice pay as per the contract of employment, payment of accrued leave days not taken at the time of exit, and pension dues or gratuity in accordance with the Scheme Rules and contract of employment, respectively.