Kenyatta University, in collaboration with Shandong Normal University, hosted a transformative cultural integration event that underscored their long standing partnership and shared vision for cross-cultural understanding. Organized by the Confucius Institute at KU, the day’s program offered a vibrant blend of symbolism, cultural exchange, and educational advancement.

The event commenced with a symbolic tree planting ceremony held on Kenyatta University’s serene campus. Leading the initiative were Prof. Feng Jikang, Chancellor of Shandong Normal University, and Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), standing in for Vice-Chancellor Prof. Paul K. Wainaina. Together, they planted both indigenous and exotic tree species, an emblem of unity and the fruitful collaboration between the two institutions.

Held under the theme "Cultural Integration", the celebration drew dignitaries from both Kenya and China, including Confucius Institute Chinese Director Prof. Zhou Xiaodong and other key stakeholders. The main event, hosted at the International Languages and Culture Centre, began with the national anthems of Kenya and China, reinforcing the spirit of mutual respect. A stirring performance by the KU Confucius Choir added a melodious touch, followed by a martial arts demonstration that thrilled attendees and highlighted China’s rich cultural heritage.

A significant highlight of the day was the Instrument Donation Ceremony by Shandong Normal University. Traditional Chinese Musical instruments such as the Guzheng and Yangqin were handed over, marking a major boost to the Confucius Institute’s cultural and academic resources. Additionally, a commemorative plaque was unveiled jointly by both institutions’ directors, marking a new chapter in their collaborative journey.

Demonstrating a profound commitment to inclusivity, Shandong Normal University also donated walking canes to support students with disabilities that was received by Dr. Lubna Mazrui, Director of Disability Services. This gesture reinforced the shared values of accessibility and empowerment that both institutions champion.

In her speech, Prof. Wanjohi expressed deep appreciation on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, lauding the Shandong partnership as one of the most dynamic since the Confucius Institute’s founding in 2008. She highlighted its evolution into Kenya’s premier center for Chinese language studies, equipped with a state-of-the-art facility and a growing student base.

Drawing parallels between Kenya’s and China’s rich cultural heritages, she celebrated the relevance of cultural integration in today’s globalized world. She also acknowledged KU’s inclusive education policy, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to supporting students with disabilities.

Through such impactful initiatives, Kenyatta University continues to cement its role as a hub for global partnerships, cultural diplomacy, and inclusive education, preparing students for an interconnected world.

Kenyatta University (KU) reaffirmed its global academic vision by hosting high-level delegations from the University of Ostroh Academy, Ukraine, and Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU), China, during two courtesy visits held at the main campus.

Led by President Jia Wenjian, the BFSU team met with KU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Paul Wainaina, reaffirming the strategic MoU signed in 2021. The agreement focuses on staff and student exchanges, joint research, and multilingual academic collaborations, reflecting both institutions’ shared commitment to internationalisation and cross-cultural understanding.

Separately, a delegation from the University of Ostroh Academy, Ukraine’s third-ranked university and among the top 400 globally for quality education, was received by KU’s Academic Division, School of Education and Lifelong Learning, and the Centre for International Programmes. The team included Rector Edward Balaslov and Dr. Oksana Maramelo.

With over 4,000 students, five institutes, and two campuses, Ostroh Academy is renowned for academic rigour and international outreach, boasting 70 global collaborations, including partnerships through Erasmus+. Rector Balaslov noted: “We are impressed by KU and share common academic values. Today’s MoU is the start of a promising cooperation.”

Prof. Samson Ondigi, Executive Dean of the School of Education, highlighted plans to launch a Kiswahili certificate programme for diplomats, with support from Dr. Hamisi Babusa, Kiswahili Department, aiming to promote language immersion and regional culture. KU will sign an MoA to operationalise the programme.

H.E. Ambassador of Ukraine to Kenya expressed hope for a Chair of Ukrainian Studies and a Ukraine Resource Library at KU, as part of ongoing education diplomacy. He acknowledged President Ruto’s role in fostering Kenya–Ukraine academic ties.

VC Prof. Wainaina welcomed the practical spirit of the collaboration: “This partnership is not just symbolic, we’re moving straight on to action. Our hearts are with Ukraine, and our hands are open for more strategic and  .”

Both visits reflect KU’s rising status as a hub for international collaboration and cultural exchange.

In a vibrant and heartfelt event that blended culture, compassion, and critical dialogue, Kenyatta University recently hosted a remarkable gathering centered on the theme “Solidarity with Refugees.” The event brought together students, dignitaries, academic leaders, and ambassadors in a show of unity and support for displaced populations.

The event opened with a powerful cultural display from a Congolese student and refugee, who showcased traditional artifacts from his homeland, offering the audience a glimpse into the resilience and richness of refugee communities. This moving performance set the tone for an afternoon of reflection, commitment, and shared humanity.

Dr. Tom Ratemo warmly welcomed guests, emphasizing that hosting and supporting refugees is not just an act of charity but a catalyst for community growth and cohesion. He urged the audience to remain open-hearted and inclusive, underscoring that embracing refugees strengthens the fabric of society.

Representing the Kenya Model United Nations (KeMUN), Secretary General Mr. Kimuhu Simon shared the organization’s legacy, tracing its inception to 2001 and its reach across universities nationwide. He challenged attendees to live the 2025 them, not just in words, but through tangible actions that uplift refugee communities. His message was clear: everyone, regardless of age or status, has a role to play.

Prof. Minja added a sobering reminder of the sacrifices refugees make as they flee conflict and instability. He cautioned against taking peace for granted and called on all to be peace ambassadors in their communities to prevent future displacement.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Paul Wainaina lauded KeMUN’s efforts, highlighting the importance of inclusion as a path to meaningful support. With over 836,000 refugees currently hosted in Kenya, part of the 4.5 million in the Horn of Africa, he acknowledged the critical challenges they face, from war to climate change. He called for deeper engagement in addressing root causes and combating xenophobia.

In her keynote remarks, H.E. Ida Wande, Ambassador of South Sudan to Kenya, extended gratitude to Kenya and its people for their unwavering hospitality. She emphasized the humanity and equal rights of refugees and appealed to higher learning institutions to expand scholarship opportunities for refugee students. Her closing words reminded all present that compassion, opportunity, and solidarity are the cornerstones of lasting change.

This event was more than a commemoration, it was a call to action. A reminder that in embracing the displaced, we reclaim our shared humanity.

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.