A good number of learning institutions in Kenya are expressing eagerness to teach Chinese language and culture.
This came to light Wednesday as the Chinese Embassy in Kenya hosted students from the Alliance High and Kenya High schools as part of celebrations to mark the Chinese Dragon Boat Festival.
Head teachers from the two schools noted that the Chinese language is appealing to more learners who are also keen to understand the Chinese culture amid growing presence of Chinese companies and expatriates in the Kenya.
According to the principals, hard work and a strong work ethic demonstrated by the Chinese in their undertakings locally is an inspiration. They said language can be a bridge to a deeper understanding of their way of doing things.
They further noted that Kenya has a lot to learn from China, especially on how the East Asian country was able to overcome poverty and lead its people to economic empowerment in record time in history.
“Today marks the beginning of innovation. looking at the young people in front of us I know they will take advantage of this opportunity and learn as much as possible. We are looking up to you to change the narrative about China.” Kenya High Alliance Principal Virginia Wahome said
“A few years back China was poor and now it’s even hard to compare. what are they doing that we are not doing?” she posed
Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Zhou Pingjian committed to channel more support to schools in Kenya to promote education even as the two countries prepare to celebrate 60 years since establishment of diplomatic relations.
“There is a need to invest more in young people and education in Kenya, because this will be the backborne of future development of Kenya,” said the Ambassador
When asked about potential support for the schools, Ambassador Zhou said the embassy will explore avenues of cooperation with the two schools and the Confucius Institute of the University of Nairobi to deepen understanding of Chinese culture.
He described the visit by the two schools as a friendship visit aimed at strengthening the bonds between Kenya and China.
Liu Zhenyu, Director of Information and Public Affairs at the Chinese Embassy disclosed that Kenya High School and the Alliance High School are the latest schools to establish Chinese clubs as students would like to learn more about China.
“China and Kenya share a very long traditional friendship. and I believe you have all witnessed dependable and fruitful results between our two countries. As the embassy, we always want to play a positive role as a window and bridge to people to people exchanges between our countries,” said Liu
