Upon joining university, you'll encounter a unique culture, which includes a set of slangs and catchphrases different from those you were used to in highschool . To help you fit in and understand the lingo, here’s a guide to some of the top slangs and catchphrases you’ll frequently encounter.

First off, your fellow students are referred to as "comrades," and the people you share the same course with are known as "course mates." The subjects you’ll take are called "units," and it’s not a class but a "lecture." You’ll attend these in a "lecture hall" or simply a "venue." Lastly, the university eatery is called the "mess," and not dining hall.

Now, let's dive into the most popular slangs and catchphrases:

 1. Imebounce

"Imebounce" is probably one of the most popular term among comrades, simply referring that a scheduled class or event has been canceled. This could be due to a lecturer's emergency, an administrative issue, or even a last-minute decision by the lecturer. It's often bittersweet phrase because while it can bring unexpected free time, it can also disrupt your planned schedule. For instance, you might have waken up early, prepared for a 7 AM class, put on your best outfit, and head to the venue, only to find out that the class has bounced.

ALSO READ: About Moi University 

The phrase has become so ingrained in university culture that it's often used beyond academic contexts. If a planned meeting or group discussion doesn’t happen, students will casually say, "Imebounce." It's a term for those unexpected changes in plans that every student will inevitably encounter.

2. Kiongozi

"Kiongozi" refers to a cadre of students who are either influential, have political ambitions, or are actual student leaders. These individuals are usually well-dressed in suits and ties and command respect on campus. They are often seen shaking hands and engaging with many people on the academic highways. 

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These student leaders are known for giving handouts, organizing events, and sometimes using their influence to gain favors. However, some "viongozi" might exploit their position to gain undue advantages from freshers, such as demanding money or sexual favours in exchange for assistance or guidance. It's important to recognize genuine leaders who are genuinely there to help versus those who might have ulterior motives.

PHOTO: Former Moi University student leaders with the institution's Vice Chancellor Prof. Kosgey | COURTESY

3. We Mzee

Borrowed from the iconic judge in the KBC courtroom drama "Vioja Mahakamani," "We Mzee" is a term used to call out someone for controversial posts, unsettling opinions, or public flirtations. Despite its original connotation of referring to an older person, in university slang, it can be used for anyone regardless of age or gender.

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This phrase is versatile and often used humorously among friends to address a variety of situations. For example, if someone makes a bold or questionable post in a WhatsApp group, you might see a flood of "We Mzee" comments as a playful rebuke. "We mzee" can also mean a form of greeting when two peers meet. It is common to hear comrades saying, "Niaje mzee," or "Inakuwaje mzee," when interacting with themselves.

4. Kupigwa Exile

This phrase refers to when a roommate asks others to leave the room for them to have private time with their partner. "Nakupiga exile Leo usiku" is a dreaded phrase, but it is also a rite of passage for many students.

Being "exiled" can be frustrating, especially if it happens frequently or at inconvenient times like during nightfall. However, it’s a part of the social dynamics in shared living spaces. On the flip side, some students take pride in exiling others, especially on weekends. The more times a student exiles their roommate, the more respect they earn among their peers. This practice, however, is slowly diminishing as students become more respectful of each other's space and time.

5. Kuinama

"Kuinama" describes the act of skipping meals, particularly lunch, due to financial constraints. It's a way for students to manage their hunger by staying busy during lunch hours. This practice is said to be common among third-year students, who are allegedly the most financially strained due to dwindling resources or increased academic expenses.

ALSO READ: Essential Things to Buy as a First Year Student Joining Moi University 

Skipping meals is slowly becoming a survival tactic for many students. They might spend their lunch break in the library, a quiet spot on campus, or engaging in activities that distract them from hunger. 

PHOTO: A graphic representation of Kuinama | @Wickymaneart

6. Za Kabej

This phrase involves asking for small financial favors to buy food or cover minor expenses. "Za Kabej" (for cabbage) has become a day-to-day term where students ask each other for small amounts of money. It’s a way to request a quick cash fix for cheap staple food like cabbage.

The phrase is indicator of the financial struggles that many students face. It’s common to hear, "Niwekee za Kabej" from a friend who needs a little help to get through the day. This term has fostered a culture of mutual aid and support among students, where everyone understands the challenges and is willing to help each other out, even if it’s just a small amount like 30 or 50 shillings.

7. Paste

"Paste" is a call for people to share their phone numbers for a random amount. Sometimes, generous students ask others to paste their numbers so they can send small amounts of money for no particular reason. You might see "Paste!" in WhatsApp group chats, prompting you to share your number for potential financial surprises.

ALSO READ: How to Download Moi University Admission Letter 

The practice of "pasting" numbers is a reminder that good comrades exist, and that the spirit of comradeship still flourish in university settings. It’s a common occurrence for a student to feel a sudden urge to share their good fortune, perhaps after receiving some fat HELB loan or just when they feel generous. 

PHOTO: An unverified image portraying a student eating ugali with salt | COURTESY

8. Mjengo

While "Mjengo" traditionally means (working in) a construction site, in university slang, it refers to any kind of hustle or work. When a comrade says, "wacha niingie Mjengo," they’re off to work, which could range from a freelance online writing job to selling boiled eggs and smokies at Stage. It's a term for any kind of hustling to make ends meet.