Raphael Birya

Raphael Birya is a Teaching Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. He holds a PhD in Communication Media from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, an MA in Adult Education Communication Technology, an Associate degree in Special Education from Kenya Institute of Special Education, and several certificates in Photography, Africa Language Pedagogy, and Digital Imaging.

His research focuses on communication media’s impact on African societies, special education, and Swahili language pedagogy. Current projects explore the cultural significance of 'Kanga' among Swahili communities and challenges in recruiting students for African language programs. Past research includes studies on social media use by Kenyan clergy, YouTube-based Swahili instruction effectiveness, and the educational needs of children with disabilities in Kenya.

His published work spans education, healthcare, and sociology, including analyses of visually impaired learners in Narok, clinical trials in Kilifi, and family dynamics in Kenya. Dr. Birya teaches courses on Swahili language, African media, and terrorism in Africa.