In a spectacular display of creativity and cultural appreciation, the students of Clothing, Textiles, and Interior Design (CTID) at Egerton University hosted a gallery exhibition and fashion show at the Graduation Square on Friday. The event, aptly themed 'Annual African Dress Extravaganza,' brought together diverse dress codes from countries across the African continent, including Kenya, Ethiopia, Namibia, Nigeria, and Ghana, among others.
The Director of Board of Post Graduate Studies at Egerton University, Prof. Morara Ogendi, commended the dedication and competence of both the lecturers and students in the CTID department. In his speech, he expressed pride in the students' ability to showcase their potential and innovativeness.
"This signifies the commitment and competence of the lecturers and the students of the CTID department. The instructors should not feel tired. Their work is portrayed in their students. I am proud of you students. Showcase your potential and innovativeness," stated Prof. Ogendi.
The gallery walk featured striking pictorial fashion illustrations created by the student designers, capturing not only their flair for design but also their deep understanding of the diverse cultures across the African continent and the world. Dr. Lydia Mareri, a lecturer in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, encouraged the aspiring designers to embrace criticism, emphasizing its role in refining their work.
"As designers, embrace criticism as the way to realize your potential. Do not fear criticism. You will only realize where to refine your work and how to make it better when your work is criticized. Be ready to connect with media outlets because you're not working for yourself. You are working for the world to see," explained Dr. Mareri.
She attributed the success of the students to the mentorship provided by the dedicated instructors and lecturers. Dr. Mareri also underscored the importance of personal and product branding, advising the students to actively network and connect with professionals from other fields, particularly media outlets and marketers.
Dr. Flora Fedha, the Dean of the Faculty of Education and Community Studies (FEDCOS), expressed satisfaction with the designs presented by the students. However, she raised concerns about the financial constraints faced by some students, hindering them from completing their projects.
"This event is a perfect portrayal of the need for collaboration. Our institution is already equipped with the resources needed to mentor the students. As a faculty, we will ensure to get support for needy students to finance their projects. Our faculty is going to greater heights," observed Dr. Fedha.
The event showcased a collaborative approach, as students from the media and communication department contributed their journalistic skills to provide visibility for the exhibition and fashion show. This collaboration highlighted the interconnectedness of various departments within the university.
In addition to the vibrant display of creativity, the event also served as a platform for students to receive further financial and technical support. Dr. Fedha expressed confidence that with continued support, the student designers would produce even more fabulous designs and projects in the future.
As the curtain closed on the 'Annual African Dress Extravaganza,' it left an indelible mark on Egerton University, not only as a celebration of fashion and culture but also as a testament to the potential that can be unlocked through collaboration, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to one's craft.
Story written by: Enrica Amisi (Communication and Media Students/Egerton University)
Edited by: Kurian Musa
Communication Officer
Directorate of Marketing and Resource Mobilization
Egerton University
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PHOTOS
IMG_001: The Egerton University student models during the gallery exhibition and fashion show of the CTID students at Egerton University (Photo by: Ian Kamau / Egerton University)
IMG_004: CTID Student Designer, Zipporah Muita, explaining her Ashenda dress to the guests at the gallery exhibition and fashion show at Egerton University. (Photo by: Enrica Amisi/ Egerton University)
IMG_005: (From left) Egerton University Director Board of Post Graduate Studies Prof. Morara Ogendi, Lecturer at the Faculty of Education and Community Studies Dr. Rose Ong’oa, Dean Faculty of Education and Community Studies Dr. Fedha Flora, Egerton University staff member at the Faculty of Education and Community Studies Winfred, and Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences lecturer Dr. Lydia Mareri during the gallery exhibition and fashion show at Egerton University. (Photo by: Ian Kamau / Egerton University)
