UoN flags off 23 Students for 2026 Chinese Scholarship Programme
The University of Nairobi has flagged off 23 students who have received scholarships under the 2026 Confucius Institute Scholarship and the second cohort of the 2+2 Joint Programme for International Chinese Language Education Scholarship in Kenya.
The flagging-off ceremony was held at the Confucius Institute Centre at the University of Nairobi, and brought together University leaders, government representatives, the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, parents and students to celebrate the scholars as they begin their academic journey in China.
Speaking on behalf of the students, Lameck, the student representative, reflected on the effort and sacrifices made while undertaking Chinese language classes. He said the hard work had been worthwhile and encouraged fellow students to remain committed as they begin their studies in China.
He also thanked the Governments of Kenya and China for providing the scholarship opportunities.
Representing the University of Nairobi Vice-Chancellor, Prof. John Mande, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs, commended the Confucius Institute for its efforts in strengthening the partnership between the University and Chinese institutions.
Prof. Mande noted that the University was pleased to send off the second cohort, while the first cohort continues to make progress in their studies.
He encouraged the students to make the most of their time in China by developing their language, professional and cultural skills. Students undertaking teacher education programmes are expected to return with skills that will enable them to contribute to the growing demand for Chinese language teachers.
The University is also working with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to create opportunities for students undertaking Chinese teacher education programmes. Through programmes such as the 1+1 Chinese teacher education pathway, students will be better prepared to pursue teaching careers and meet the requirements for professional licensing in Kenya.
Dr. Reuben Nthamburi, Director of Teacher Professional Management at the Teachers Service Commission, welcomed the growing interest in Chinese language education. He noted that Kenya is seeing an increasing need for qualified Chinese language teachers under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).
He highlighted several areas that future teachers need to develop, including subject knowledge, teaching practice, assessment, classroom management, cultural understanding, communication, reflection and lifelong professional skills. He also expressed his excitement at seeing teachers already delivering lessons in Chinese.
Representing the State Department for Higher Education, Dr. Wahome, on behalf of Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, described the scholarships as an example of how international partnerships can help prepare young people for an increasingly interconnected world.
He noted that the students were travelling to China not only to study, but also to gain knowledge and skills that respond to Kenya’s human resource needs. He encouraged them to be good ambassadors of Kenya, share their experiences and help strengthen the relationship between Kenya and China.
The Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, Zhang Zhizhong, reminded the students that their experience in China would go beyond learning the Chinese language.
He encouraged them to immerse themselves in Chinese culture, respect and learn from others while remaining true to their own values.
Speaking on behalf of the parents, James Mwaniki thanked the Confucius Institute for opening global opportunities for Kenyan students. He encouraged the scholars to work hard and represent their families, the University and Kenya with distinction.
“Wherever you go, go with all your heart, with courage and return to build our nation,” he told the students.
The flagging-off ceremony highlights the University of Nairobi’s commitment to internationalisation, student mobility and strategic partnerships that give students opportunities to gain global skills and experiences.
As the 23 scholars begin their studies in China, the University of Nairobi wishes them success and looks forward to welcoming them back as skilled professionals, Chinese language educators and ambassadors who will contribute to strengthening Kenya-China relations.
