Kenyatta University proudly hosted the 2025 edition of the Nairobi King Sejong Institute Annual Korean Speech Contest, a vibrant celebration of language, culture, and international cooperation. The event brought together students, faculty, and dignitaries from both Kenya and South Korea, highlighting the growing importance of linguistic diversity and cross-cultural exchange.
In his welcoming remarks, Dr. Mark Chetambe, Chairperson of the Department of Foreign Languages and Linguistics, the host department, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Korean Embassy for its steadfast support of the King Sejong Institute. He specifically acknowledged the leadership of Colonel Kim and Ms. Hannah Muhia for their dedicated contributions in strengthening the program and promoting Korean language education in Kenya.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Caroline Thoruwa, Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Outreach), lauded the ongoing collaboration between Kenyatta University and the Korean Embassy. She emphasized the mutual benefits of the partnership, noting that it has provided a vital platform for academic and cultural exchange. Prof. Thoruwa also thanked the Embassy for its deliberate efforts to build lasting ties and meaningful cooperation between the two nations.
Prof. James Kung’u, Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), echoed similar sentiments, stating that learning an additional language beyond Kenya’s official languages is a powerful tool for personal and national empowerment. He highlighted that Korean, spoken by over 80 million people worldwide, opens up unique global opportunities for Kenyan students. Prof. Kung’u also acknowledged the goodwill and support that accompanied the event, which reflects the strong KU-Korea partnership.
Delivering the keynote address, His Excellency Ambassador Kang Hyungshik commended Kenyatta University as a prestigious institution, not only in Kenya but internationally. He praised the efforts of the King Sejong Institute and reaffirmed the strength of Korea-Kenya relations, which have steadily grown since the 1970s and were recently reinforced by the Kenyan President’s official visit to Korea in 2024. The Ambassador emphasized Korea’s global position as the 10th largest economy and underscored the significance of nurturing bilateral ties through education and cultural engagement.
The 2025 Korean Speech Contest was a true testament to the power of language in bridging nations and fostering mutual respect. It also marked another milestone in the ongoing journey of friendship and collaboration between Kenya and South Korea.
