MMU media students learn practical AI skills to advance communication and storytelling practices

Multimedia University of Kenya (MMU), Faculty of Media and Communication is stepping up its efforts to prepare students for an artificial intelligence-driven future through a hands-on workshop dubbed “Getting Comfortable Using AI.”

The training, designed to equip learners with practical skills in emerging artificial intelligence tools for media and digital production, brings together industry experts to guide students through real-world applications of AI in communication.

Christine Abernathy, a technologist with leadership experience at Meta and F5, alongside Hazel Gachoka, a Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) and cybersecurity expert, are the lead trainers of the exercise.

During the workshop, students are engaging in design, development and publication of fully functional websites using tools such as Google AI Studio and Claude.ai.

The programme also introduces participants to core prompting techniques, enabling them to effectively interact with AI systems while enhancing their projects with custom visuals, voice narration and background audio.

Speaking about the initiative, Dean, Faculty of Media and Communication Dr. Isaac Mutwiri, said the workshop highlights the institution’s commitment to aligning training with industry trends.

“This workshop reflects the faculty’s commitment to preparing students for rapidly evolving media landscape by integrating AI-driven innovation into communication and storytelling practices,” he said.

The workshop comes at a time when artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming media production, with institutions increasingly adopting practical, skills-based training to ensure graduates remain competitive in the job market.