Kenyans will soon be required to learn Chinese as part of a new initiative announced by Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Higher Education and Research in Kenya.
This development comes in light of a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between Kenya and China aimed at advancing educational opportunities related to the Chinese language.
Strengthening Educational Ties
Inyangala shared details of the MOU on her social media platforms on November 17, stating that Kenyan universities will collaborate with Chinese institutions in various fields, including education, agriculture, and engineering.
She emphasized that this partnership will promote innovative research, enhance teacher training, and facilitate student exchanges, thereby strengthening Kenya’s global ties.
During her speech at the Global Confucius Institute delegates gathering in Beijing, commemorating the institute’s 20th anniversary, Inyangala remarked:
“It is through the Confucius Institute that we have come to appreciate the Chinese language and culture in a profound way. Indeed, Chinese is a language of elegance, depth, and cultural resilience.”
A Historical Perspective
Reflecting on the past, Inyangala noted that 20 years ago, Kenya’s Ministry of Education signed an agreement with China to establish Africa’s first Confucius Institute at the University of Nairobi.
This marked the beginning of a flourishing era for International Chinese Education in Kenya and across the African continent.
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She highlighted the growing cooperation between Chinese and Kenyan universities, noting that there are now three additional Confucius Institutes located at Kenyatta University, Egerton University, and Moi University.
Impact on Kenyan Students
Inyangala stated that over 100,000 Kenyan students have embraced the study of the Chinese language, opening new avenues for their futures.
She credited the international Chinese language teacher scholarship program for enabling thousands of talented Kenyan students to study in China and return as accomplished educators.
She also recognized individuals like Ruth Njeri Wangui, who inspires the next generation to study Chinese, and Caroline Karutho, one of the first locomotive drivers for Kenya’s Standard Gauge Railway associated with the Confucius Institute.
Economic Opportunities
The Principal Secretary emphasized that mastering the Chinese language has created numerous employment opportunities for Kenyan youth in Chinese companies both locally and abroad.
She expressed gratitude for the support provided by the Confucius Institute and its network, highlighting that there is now a pool of talent available for global benefit.
“Chinese is therefore a language that is strengthening the social fabric and economic ties between the two countries,” she added.
A New Era in Language Learning
The establishment of this new educational framework signifies a commitment to fostering closer ties between Kenya and China while enhancing linguistic skills among Kenyans.
As more students engage with the Chinese language and culture, this initiative promises to open doors for greater collaboration and economic growth in both nations.
The Confucius Institute continues to play a pivotal role in promoting Chinese language education and cultural exchange globally.
Source: The Kenya Times