UON Confucius Institute director Prof Wang Shangxue speaks at the ceremony, February 12, 2026./MOSES OGADA

The University of Nairobi has hailed its growing partnership with China as a “powerhouse of opportunities,” citing expanded student exchanges, new academic programmes and stronger industry linkages fostered through the Confucius Institute.

Speaking during Chinese New Year celebrations at the Confucius Institute on Thursday, UoN Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof Leonidah Kerubo, on behalf of Vice Chancellor Prof Margaret Hutchinson, said the collaboration had evolved into one of the institution’s most vibrant international engagements.

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“We are celebrating a partnership that has become one of the most vibrant in our university,” Prof Kerubo said. “The Confucius Institute has transformed into a powerhouse of opportunities.”

She revealed that the institute had facilitated the journey of 239 students and educators to China through scholarships and exchange programmes, a milestone in Kenya–China academic cooperation.

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Joy Atieno, a student at Boma International Hospitality College, cuts a piece of Chinese art during celebration to mark Lunar New Year, at UON, February 12, 2026./MOSES OGADA
The university has also rolled out the 2+2 programme, under which students complete part of their studies in Kenya before transferring to China for the remainder of their degrees. Prof Kerubo said the first cohort had already departed, with demand for China-linked academic pathways continuing to rise.

“We sent our first cohort of 2+2 students to China, and this is only the beginning,” she said.

Lindsey Atieno, a student at the Confucius Institute at the University of Nairobi, making beads at the New Year celebration, February 12, 2026.

Beyond mobility programmes, she noted that the Confucius Institute was helping bridge academia and industry, while expanding UoN’s academic portfolio. She cited the recent approval of a postgraduate education programme as evidence of the institute’s growing footprint.

“The impact goes beyond the classroom. It is building synergy between the university and the corporate world,” she said.

Prof Kerubo described the institute as a beacon of the shared vision between Kenya and China, anchored on people-to-people exchanges and long-term cooperation.

“The Confucius Institute stands as a beacon of the vision of building a community of shared future,” she said.

Youngsters trying their hand in Chinese art and calligraphy during the celebration to usher in the Year of the Horse, February 12, 2026./MOSES OGADA
Reflecting on the symbolism of the Chinese New Year, she said the Year of the Horse mirrored the collective journey Kenya and China were undertaking, that is, one driven by progress, resilience, and shared ambition.

“Every year we celebrate the Chinese New Year, and this year is symbolic of the journey we are taking together,” she said.

“Let us continue to draw inspiration from the spirit of progress. Together we are not just building careers but a shared legacy of friendship and excellence that will endure for years to come.”

She concluded by expressing optimism about the future of bilateral ties.

“May the friendship between Kenya and China continue to flourish,” Prof Kerubo said.

The colourful ceremony, hosted by Confucius Institute director Wang Shangxue, featured cultural performances by students from various institutions, including traditional dance, music, martial arts, and Mandarin presentations, underscoring the growing appetite for Chinese language and culture in Kenya.

Prof Wang said the institute remained committed to strengthening mutual understanding through language training, cultural immersion and academic exchange programmes, noting that interest in Mandarin courses and scholarship opportunities had risen steadily in recent years.

“The Confucius Institute is about connecting people, cultures and ideas,” she said.

The event drew participation from secondary schools, universities and colleges across the country, highlighting the expanding footprint of China-related studies in Kenya.

Among institutions represented were State House Girls, Kabete Polytechnic, Embu University, Utalii College, Strathmore University, USIU-Africa, Nairobi School, St Paul’s University, Riara University, Rongo University, Alliance Boys High School, Kenya High School, Masinde Muliro University and the host, the University of Nairobi.

Organisers said the celebrations formed part of efforts to promote intercultural dialogue and prepare Kenyan students for academic and professional opportunities in China. This is as UoN positions itself as a regional hub for China–Africa educational engagement.