The U.S. government has introduced a new visa requirement mandating that foreign student applicants disclose their social media handles from the past five years as part of the vetting process.
The U.S policy is part of a broader effort to enhance national security but it risks penalizing individuals for past expressions posted recklessly as jokes or political satire. However, critics argue commentary taken out of context might be a disadvantage for Kenyan youth many of whom use social media platforms to voice frustrations or engage in satire, this means that a single post might derail a dream.
For Kenyan students, the implications have not come as a surprise, especially in light of recent warnings from Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi about the long-term consequences of reckless social media behavior among youths.
Speaking earlier this month, Mudavadi cautioned that visa-issuing nations, including the U.S., are increasingly scrutinizing applicants’ digital footprints.
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“When you want to travel, your track record will be monitored, especially when applying for visas,” Mudavadi stated. “Soon, your social media engagements will play a critical role in whether you get clearance” His remarks come at a time when many young Kenyans are actively seeking opportunities abroad for education and work.
Kenyan students whose online activity might reflect frustrations with governance or economic conditions fear that expressions of dissent however legitimate, could be penalized in ways that hinder personal development and at the expense of their academic pursuit.
For Kenyans, this moment is a wake-up call, students and youths are urged to reconsider the boundaries between personal freedom and public accountability in the digital age. As your online persona is part of your resume.
By Masaki Enock
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