Egerton University today hosted a high-level delegation from the Chinese Centre for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC), marking a significant step in strengthening academic partnerships and advancing Chinese language education at the institution.
The visit underscores the growing importance of global engagement in promoting cultural exchange, research, and multilingual proficiency among university students.
The delegation was received by the Division of Academics, Research and Extension (ARE), led by Prof. Bernard Aduda, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (ARE), who represented Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage, currently away on an international educational mission.
Prof. Aduda affirmed Egerton University’s commitment to expanding its international collaborations, especially those enriching its academic offerings and student experience.
The high-level team from China was led by Mr. Yu Yunfeng, the Director General of CLEC, accompanied by senior officials: Mr. W. Huizhong, Director of Asia–Africa Affairs; Mr. Wang Huiliang, Deputy Director of the Volunteer Division; and Ms. Meng Meng, Senior Programs Specialist. Their visit follows formal communication initiated through the Confucius Institute at Egerton University, marking yet another milestone in the university’s international partnership engagements.
They were joined by their hosts at the Egerton University Confucius Institute (CI), including Prof. Arnold Opiyo, the Kenyan Director, and Prof. Liu Yutao, the Chinese Director, who helped coordinate the visit and facilitated engagements throughout the day.
The delegation began their visit with a symbolic tree-planting ceremony, demonstrating a shared commitment to environmental sustainability. The guests were then ushered into the university community through a lively cultural showcase featuring traditional song and dance, reflecting the warm hospitality and cultural richness of Egerton University.
Prof. Aduda was accompanied by several senior university officials, among them Prof. Mwanarusi Saidi, Registrar Academic Affairs; Dr. Hillary Bett, representing the Dean, Faculty of Education; and Dr. Josephine Khaemba, Chair of the Department of Languages.
Together, they engaged the delegation in a series of productive discussions aimed at strengthening collaboration in language education and academic exchange.
One of the central themes of the meeting was Egerton University’s request to introduce University-level Chinese language training to meet the rising demand among students across various faculties. Prof. Aduda highlighted the increasing interest in Chinese language proficiency, driven by global academic trends and growing opportunities in international cooperation.
“We request more teachers who can teach Chinese, since there is a huge demand,” Prof. Aduda emphasized after introductions from both sides.
In response, the CLEC delegation shared plans to establish a Local Chinese Centre, which would train Kenyan teachers to deliver Chinese language instruction not only at Egerton University but also in other universities across the country.
Mr. Yunfeng affirmed the initiative’s broader impact: “This centre can support more universities, not only Egerton University.” He explained that the plan is to introduce chinese language early in basic education -Primary and secondary schools in Kenya.
The visiting team further revealed CLEC’s intention to expand scholarship opportunities for institutions integrating Chinese language programs into their curricula. These scholarships, they noted, would support both students and staff seeking advanced training in China or pursuing professional development in language education.
Mr. Yunfeng also commended Egerton University for championing the recently launched Global Agricultural Alliance, an initiative aimed at enhancing collaboration among African universities in agricultural research and innovation. He acknowledged the university’s leadership in fostering continental partnerships aligned with global development priorities.
Earlier in the day, the visitors had been scheduled to pay a courtesy call to the Vice Chancellor’s office at 9:00 a.m., where discussions focused on strengthening Confucius Institute activities, expanding cultural exchange programs, and exploring new areas for institutional collaboration.
The delegation also toured several sections of the university to gain insight into ongoing programs and potential areas of synergy.
Officials from the Confucius Institute expressed optimism that the visit would deepen bilateral cooperation, enhance research partnerships, and create broader opportunities for student and staff exchange.
As an ISO 9001:2015 certified institution with a strong tradition of global engagement, Egerton University continues to position itself as a regional leader in academic excellence and international collaboration.
Hosting the CLEC China delegation today further reinforces the university’s commitment to enriching its academic environment through strategic partnerships that bridge cultures and expand educational horizons.
Both parties expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations designed to strengthen Chinese language education and enhance mutual understanding between Kenyan and Chinese institutions.
By Kurian Musa, Communication Officer, Egerton University.
