20 Egerton Students Win Prestigious Chinese Government Sponsorship.
The Chinese government has expanded its collaboration with Kenya by sponsoring 20 Egerton University students through the Chinese Ambassador’s scholarship program.
This initiative, which began in 2013, targets undergraduate students under the Government Sponsored (Module 1) Category, selecting recipients after a thorough verification of their family backgrounds to ensure they are genuinely in need.
To qualify for the Chinese Ambassador’s scholarship, a student must be needy, registered, and regular, with an excellent academic record and good character.
They must also not have received any other scholarships in the previous or current academic year. In August 2023, China awarded 30 scholarships to University of Nairobi students for the 2023/2024 academic year, highlighting the nation’s ongoing commitment to supporting Kenyan students.
Encouraging Agents of Change
Zhang Zhizhong, the Acting Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, urged scholarship recipients to focus on improving society and becoming agents of positive change.
He emphasized that despite the challenges in their academic journeys, they should strive to transform Kenya and Africa as a whole.
This message was delivered at Egerton University’s Njoro Campus during a ceremony where the ambassador presented the awards. Zhizhong also stressed that these students would play a key role in strengthening China-Kenya relations.
Egerton University has enjoyed a fruitful relationship with the Chinese government for over a decade, leading to the establishment of the Confucius Institute in 2012.
This institute offers lessons in Chinese language and culture and helps students access networking, job opportunities, and internships, especially in Chinese companies operating in Kenya.
Currently, Kenya hosts four Confucius Institutes, located at Egerton, the University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University, and Moi University.
Notable Kenyan Graduates
During the event, Zhizhong, accompanied by several Egerton University officials, expressed satisfaction with Kenyan students who had graduated from Chinese universities, noting their outstanding contributions to Kenya’s development.
The Chinese government’s support has enabled many of these graduates to become key players in the country’s growth.
The Chinese Ambassador reaffirmed China’s policy towards Africa, which is focused on pursuing shared interests.
He highlighted China’s continued support for Kenya’s education and agricultural sectors, noting that agricultural courses could help Kenya achieve food security.
As agriculture is a priority for China, the ambassador explained that the country is leveraging technology to enhance food production for both domestic and commercial purposes.
Promoting the Chinese Language
There has been growing interest among Kenyan students and citizens in learning the Chinese language, a trend the ambassador said would continue to receive support.
He assured that the Chinese government would promote the learning of Chinese and fund research activities in Kenyan universities to deepen bilateral ties between Beijing and Nairobi.
Professor Richard Mulwa, Egerton University’s Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration, Finance, and Planning, highlighted the benefits of the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in China.
Through this forum, a Sh100 million Road and Belt Molecular Laboratory was established at the university’s Faculty of Agriculture.
The laboratory, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, is unique in Kenya and is being used for advanced research on crops and livestock by students, faculty, and partners such as the Kenya Agricultural Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO).
The Belt and Road Initiative’s Broader Impact
The Belt and Road Initiative aims to create a network of transportation and utility infrastructures connecting China to the world.
In Africa, the initiative has focused on trade, finance, investment, agriculture, infrastructure connectivity, and cultural exchanges.
Mulwa noted that the initiative has greatly benefited Kenya and has fostered collaboration in various sectors, including education and research.
Enhancing Vocational Education
Professor Mulwa also acknowledged China’s significant contribution to vocational education in Kenya, particularly in providing equipment, funding, and training for mechanical engineers, electricians, and automation professionals.
This cooperation has helped develop local talent and support Kenya’s growing economy.
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The establishment of the Road and Belt Molecular Laboratory further serves as a platform for scientific collaboration and talent incubation between China and Africa.
In conclusion, the award of these scholarships highlights the deepening ties between Egerton University and the Chinese government, reflecting a strong partnership that is contributing to Kenya’s educational and developmental goals.
20 Egerton Students Win Prestigious Chinese Government Sponsorship.
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