Chinese deputy ambassador to Kenya Zhang Zhizhong (fourth) pose for a group photo with beneficiaries during the Kenya-China scholarship farewell ceremony at the the Chinese embassy in Kenya, Nairobi on August 28, 2025/LEAH MUKANGAI
At least 52 Kenyan students are set to leave for China after receiving scholarships from the Chinese government, part of the 670 opportunities President William Ruto secured during talks with President Xi Jinping in April.
Speaking at the send-off ceremony on Thursday, August 28, Zhang Zhizhong, Chargé d’Affaires at the Chinese Embassy in Nairobi, underscored the importance of education in strengthening ties between Kenya and China.
He noted that more than 2,000 Kenyan students have already studied in China through similar programmes.
“Such opportunities do not happen by accident,” Zhang said, crediting the April meeting for laying the foundation for stronger cooperation.
He encouraged the students to embrace Chinese culture, learn the language, and respect local laws.
“China is home to world-class technologies. Let the students study hard—every effort will pay back.”
The students were also treated to Chinese cuisines, including dumplings, as part of their cultural orientation.
Chinese deputy ambassador to Kenya Zhang Zhizhong speaking during the Kenya-China scholarship farewell ceremony at the the Chinese embassy in Kenya, Nairobi on August 28, 2025/LEAH MUKANGAI
An official from the Ministry of Security also briefed them on safety tips, assuring them that Beijing remains a secure environment for international students.
For some, the scholarships are life-changing.
Paul Muraya, heading to Peking University for a master’s in public policy, described education as “the biggest bridge between nations.”
Grateful for what he called a “dream come true,” Muraya said he looked forward to not only studying but also sharing Kenya’s story abroad.
“We are excited to experience China firsthand and return with lessons that can help Kenya’s development,” he said.
The gathering also heard from Joseph Maritim of the Kenya-China Alumni Association, who studied in Beijing more than four decades ago. He recalled arriving in an underdeveloped China and witnessing its transformation until 1997.
“There are so many benefits of traveling and studying in China. It was hard, but we are glad these scholarships have grown over the years,” he said.
In remarks delivered on behalf of Association President Henry Rotich, Maritim said the programme reflects the enduring partnership between the two nations.
“Education and cultural exchange remain powerful tools for deepening relations. These students will return with more than certificates—they will carry experiences that shape Kenya’s growth.”
Kenyan officials echoed the same sentiments.
Beneficiaries take part in creating dumplings during the Kenya-China scholarship farewell ceremony at the the Chinese embassy in Kenya, Nairobi on August 28, 2025/LEAH MUKANGAI
She urged the students to carry themselves with dignity as ambassadors of Kenya.
Col. Samuel Otieno, head of defense relations at the Kenya Defence Forces, noted that the cooperation extends beyond education to broader development and military relations.
“It is my belief our cooperation will grow from strength to strength and empower us to achieve our aspirations,” he said.
Education Ministry official David Watene, speaking on behalf of PS Beatrice Inyangala, highlighted China’s contribution to Kenya’s development through both infrastructure projects and skills training.
“We are grateful for China’s support in the education sector, which has enabled Kenya to develop specialised expertise,” he said.
The Public Service Ministry added that scholarships remain critical to Kenya’s national development.
“As a government, we are grateful to China for the assistance. May the collaboration continue to flourish,” the statement reads.
