Media Consultant Proud After Student He Taught At UoN Interviews Him For TV Show: "She Impressed"

• After nearly a decade, lecturer Martin Ocholi's heart was full when he was interviewed by one of his former students at the University of Nairobi
• The educator expressed joy that the protege was doing great things in the media industry courtesy of what he taught her
• He told TUKO.co.ke that such moments touch teachers because it proves they offered them the best to compete in the outside world

Martin Ocholi, a seasoned part-time lecturer at the University of Nairobi (UoN), found himself on the other side of the classroom lights when a former student interviewed him.

It was a case of reversed roles as the don, who crafted questions for the student nearly a decade ago at UoN, was now tasked with answering her questions.

Cocktail of emotions

He shared a photo of the nostalgic reunion on LinkedIn, comparing it to a patient trusting a surgeon they've trained with their life.

The media and communication consultant expressed pride in his protege for fully implementing his lessons.

"I was so excited to see that the interviewer was a former student whom I taught TV News Writing and Production. She conducted the interview superbly," he expressed.

Mr Ocholi is a consultant who teaches part-time, and the reporter dropped by to interview him about VODES.

Mr Ocholi runs consultancy enterprise

VODES is a strategic communication and training company that specializes in voice training for speakers.

Mr Ocholi explained that the ultimate goal of his business enterprise is to help individuals improve their communication skills and build confidence.

Judith Cherono, now a practising journalist with NTV, thanked his former lecturer for teaching them well.

"I am humbled and yes! I enjoyed every bit of that chat. Looking forward to more engaging sessions with you," she said.

Dreadful moments

In an exclusive interview with TUKO.co.ke, Mr Ocholi stated that such encounters bring a feeling of satisfaction, a joyful kind of it, as the teacher tends to see a reflection of themself in the student.

He revealed how fulfilling it is to see the impact of education within the confines of the classroom and in the real world.

Mr Ocholi, who has been in academia for over 20 years, disclosed that he is immensely proud of his students who leave campus and achieve great things.

The educator, however, opened up about the trail of thoughts that go through a lecturer's mind when they run into a former student who is struggling.

"It's a dreadful thought. You start wondering 'did I not give enough? What could I have done better? Or; what happened?" he said.

Mr Ocholi produced great journalists

The heartwarming moment resonated with his followers, serving as a testament to the profound impact educators can have on the lives of their students.

Thomas Gesora:

"You organised a training with the International federation of journalists in conjunction with the School of Journalism, University of Nairobi, in 1995 which I was part of."

Stephanie Gakuo:

"Sure, would be a good time to assess your skills and the reason that every teacher must take their work seriously. You never really know."

Susan Wanjiku:

"Very proud to have been your student. A decade later and I am still learning from you. Thank you."

Yunis Hussein:

"I am very grateful for the wisdom you shared and the great men and women you empowered along the way for Kenya. You have influenced many of us and thus will shape the narratives of our nation through them."

Eric Malavi:

"We are all here, putting into practice the amazing skills you instilled in us. Some of us may not be in broadcasting, but still use the power of our voices impactfully in corporate corridors and our communities."

Teacher motivates students with cash

In an earlier story, a teacher revealed that she uses money to motivate her students to do well on their tests, which is working.

The proud teacher with the TikTok handle @mamdletshee shared a video showing the test papers she had just marked for her grade 7 class, and they all had KSh 75) attached to them.

Social media users thanked the teacher for this excellent initiative, as education is vital for these children's future.