Nineteen Kenyan students have received Chinese government scholarships to continue their studies in China, aiming to strengthen educational connections between Kenya and China. The scholarships were presented at a farewell reception at the Chinese Embassy in Nairobi, with government officials, students, and representatives from both nations in attendance.
Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Higher Education and Research, highlighted the significance of the scholarships in her address. "Winning the scholarship means that you have triumphed in a highly competitive but deeply satisfying process and emerged the best", she told the students.
Dr. Inyangala expressed her gratitude to the Chinese government for their continued support, noting that such international partnerships are vital in providing educational opportunities to Kenyan students. Zhang Zhizhong, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, echoed these sentiments stating: "We hope that the scholarship awardees are not only witnesses and beneficiaries, but will also be contributors and promoters for the progress of China-Kenya and China-Africa friendship".
Zhang urged the students to make the most of their opportunity to study in China and to help enhance the bilateral relations between the two nations. This year, 65 Kenyan students have benefited from the Chinese government's educational program, including 46 who are already studying in China and 19 new scholarship recipients.
Zhang highlighted the significance of this connection, especially with the upcoming 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing. He expressed optimism that these students would be instrumental in driving modernization and fostering a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future. The event also highlighted the "China-Africa Cooperation in My Eyes" essay competition, organized by the Kenya-China Alumni Association. Zhang Zhizhong commended the competition for providing valuable insights and recommendations on China-Africa cooperation.
As the students prepare to embark on their academic journey, both Dr. Inyangala and Zhang Zhizhong urged them to make the most of their time in China. "Be bold and express your Kenyan identity gallantly and proudly", Dr. Inyangala advised, while Zhang encouraged them to explore the deep and enduring friendship between China and Kenya.
