Nation Media Group (NMG) Editor-in-Chief Joseph (Joe) Onditi Ageyo was among the 29 graduates who were conferred Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees on Friday during Daystar University’s 2025 graduation ceremony.
Dr Joe Ageyo, NMG Editor-in-Chief, during Daystar University 2025 graduation at Athi River Campus. He was conferred a PhD in Communications and Media Studies.
Photo credit: Pool
Dr Ageyo's doctoral journey in Communication and Media Studies, supervised by Prof Levi Obonyo and Dr Lydia Radoli, culminated in a thesis on the discursive construction of climate change in Kenyan newspapers, focusing on a critical analysis of four Conference of the Parties (COP) climate summits.
Dr Ageyo, a towering media leader whose illustrious career spans nearly three decades, received the degree alongside hundreds of graduates who were conferred PhD degrees, degrees and diplomas at the Athi River campus.
“The curiosity to sharpen my skills in the dynamic media industry motivated me to go back to class. The media industry has undergone massive transformation in the last decade,” said Dr Ageyo.
“The information landscape globally has changed. The industry needs fresh thinking to be able to capture the target audience with well-packaged and researched information.”
He added: “I encourage my fellow journalists, young and old, to spare some time to further their studies. The more you study, the more you realise you have been missing a lot.”
In the same ceremony, NMG’s Quality Control Manager (NTV) Alfred Chomba graduated with a Master's degree in Communication and Media Studies, while Social Media Producer Mitchelle Namasaka was awarded a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Communication.
Dr Joe Ageyo with NTV Quality Control Manager Alfred Chomba who graduated with a Master's degree in Communication and Media Studies.
Photo credit: Pool
“I have followed in the footsteps of my boss (Dr Ageyo). Education is a major facet of a vibrant media house and personal growth,” said Mr Chomba.
Ms Namasaka said social media has ignited major disruptions in content distribution worldwide, calling on journalists to sharpen their skills.
“The skills I have acquired will be instrumental in my work as a journalist. Our audiences need palatable news at bullet speed that is accurate and within the media codes of ethics,” said Ms Namasaka.
NMG Social Media Producer Mitchelle Namasaka graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Communication.
Photo credit: Pool
Daystar University Chancellor, Dr Florence Muindi, challenged the graduates to uphold integrity beyond the call of duty to ensure high standards of service backed by unmatched skills, academic knowledge and character.
She encouraged the graduates to remain true, authentic and to exhibit conduct that is meaningful in society.
“We have standards and respect that we uphold as a university. I urge you, as you pursue your endeavours, let the brand of authenticity be ingrained in you. Extend humility, love and grace wherever you go. Hold the Christian values we have built in you wherever God will place you. Carry the light of sincere practice of faith in God, family bonds and always remember that prayer is central,” said Dr Muindi.
The University Vice-Chancellor, Prof Laban Ayiro, said the institution has witnessed miraculous and transformative progress in terms of infrastructure, student numbers, courses available and financial stability.
He encouraged the graduates to carry an enduring fortitude that represents intellectual strength and authenticity.
“It does not matter how thick the clouds will be. It does not matter how hot the day will be. It does not matter how thirsty you will be, you will maintain that enduring fortitude because you come through Daystar. Carry soft hearts wherever you go. Be the sheep, be authentic and God-fearing. Carry a prayer culture, plan and perform with excellence,” said Prof Ayiro.
