The Chinese Ambassador's Scholarship Awarding Ceremony was held at Egerton University, presided over by the Acting Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, Mr. Zhang Zhizhong, alongside the University's Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Richard Mulwa. The event marked the celebration of 20 students who received prestigious scholarships as part of an ongoing collaboration between the Chinese Embassy and the University.
Before the ceremony, Ambassador Zhang was taken on an extensive tour of the University, visiting key innovation hubs such as the Molecular Lab, the Confucius Institute, and the Agro-Science Park. The tour showcased Egerton University’s advanced research and international collaboration efforts, particularly in the agricultural sciences, which have earned it global recognition.
Prof. Richard Mulwa, representing the University’s Vice Chancellor, expressed profound gratitude to Ambassador Zhang for his unwavering support. "This scholarship is a kind gesture that underscores the importance of education in strengthening the bond between Kenya and China," Prof. Mulwa remarked. He acknowledged the role the scholarships play in transforming the lives of needy students, allowing them to continue their studies and achieve their academic dreams.
A Courtesy Call and Collaborative Exchange
The Ambassador’s visit included a courtesy call to the Vice Chancellor's office, where he was warmly received by the University's management board. The two parties exchanged gifts as a symbol of their close relationship. This meeting was followed by a group photo in front of the University's main administration building, commemorating the ongoing partnership between Egerton University and the Chinese Embassy.
In his address at the Faculty of Education and Community Studies (FEDCOS) Theatre II, Ambassador Zhang emphasized the growing number of scholarship opportunities available to Kenyan students, particularly young women.
"There are about 60,000 scholarship opportunities for young women in various fields," he announced. He further highlighted Egerton University's prominence, stating, "Egerton is the best and largest university in the world by offering world-class knowledge and lifelong learning." His remarks underscored the institution's pivotal role in academic advancement and global partnerships.
Scholarships as Pathways to Opportunity
The Chinese Ambassador’s Scholarship, awarded annually, supports Egerton University students pursuing studies in various disciplines, including Chinese language education.
The 20 recipients of this year's scholarships were honored in a ceremony that celebrated their academic excellence and commitment to future growth. Ambassador Zhang noted that the scholarship program continues to expand, encouraging students to apply each year by demonstrating their qualifications and interest.
Egerton University Leadership Encourages Students to Apply
Phillip Nyayo, Chairman of the Egerton University Students' Association (EUSA), echoed the sentiments of gratitude and called for an increase in the number of scholarships available. "I urge students to take advantage of these opportunities and apply for the offered scholarships. We request the Ambassador to increase the scholarships from 20 to 100 in the future to support more deserving cases," Nyayo said.
Dr. Japhet Muthamia, Dean of Students, spoke about the impact the scholarships have had on individuals facing financial hardship. He mentioned Christine Abuga, one of the scholarship recipients, who had deferred her studies due to financial constraints but was now able to continue her education. "A committee appointed by Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage identified the most deserving cases. Make good use of the funds given to support you throughout your studies here at Egerton," Dr. Muthamia urged the recipients.
The Secretary General of EUSA, Mr. John Mutuma, also expressed appreciation on behalf of the student body, highlighting the critical role that such initiatives play in fostering academic success.
Strengthening Collaborative Ties
Prof. Nzula Kitaka, Director of Marketing and Resource Mobilization, praised the collaboration between Egerton University and the Chinese Embassy, noting that it has bolstered the University’s global outlook. "This is an outstanding collaboration, and we have seen the fruits of it, from faculty members to students who have won scholarships to study both here and in China for further studies," she said.
Ambassador Zhang’s tour of the Agro-Science Park demonstrated the tangible outcomes of this partnership. He was introduced to various seed innovations developed through research conducted in the University’s Molecular Lab, which was funded by the Chinese government. Led by research assistant Hillary Chelal under the supervision of Prof. Richard Mulwa, the team showcased advances in crop development, including improved varieties of chickpeas, the Chelalang’ bean variety, the Ndovu groundnut variety, and highland rice trials.
Ambassador Zhang also discussed the potential for future agricultural collaboration between China and Kenya. He highlighted China’s interest in cultivating watermelons in Kenya for export to European markets. The Ambassador shared that several research groups have sought the embassy’s support in linking them with institutions like Egerton University to initiate large-scale agricultural projects. This idea was warmly received by Prof. Mulwa, who expressed the University’s openness to exploring these opportunities.
A Testament to Long-Standing Relations
In a speech delivered on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mulwa emphasized the strong partnership between Egerton University and China, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative. "The Confucius Institute at Egerton is a testament to our longstanding relationship with China," the speech read. "Teaching Chinese as a foreign language is a great employment pathway for many young Kenyans, and our students have benefited from scholarships to further their studies in China." He noted the Confucius Institute as a symbol of the deepening ties between the university and China, serving as a cultural and educational hub on campus.
Notably, 60 faculty members have received prestigious scholarships as part of the horticulture departments involvement in the collaboration.
Prof. Joshua Ogweno, the Kenyan Director of Egerton University’s Confucius Institute, served as the master of ceremonies during the scholarship awards. He urged the recipients to make the most of the opportunity: "The Certificate of Award is a demonstration and testament that a cheque has been written to your name. So make proper use of this opportunity and commit the funds to academic excellence."
Among the dignitaries present at the ceremony were Prof. Paul Kimurto, Director of Egerton University's Agro-Science Park, who played a crucial role in highlighting the University's agricultural innovations to the Chinese delegation. Prof Liu Yutao, Chinese Director of Egerton University Confucius Institute.
The event ended on a high note, with a reaffirmation of the mutual benefits that the partnership between Egerton University and the Chinese Embassy brings to both countries.
This scholarship program not only supports Kenyan students but also strengthens the growing bond between China and Kenya, fostering a spirit of collaboration in education, research, and innovation.
By Kurian Musa, Agnes Mwangi & Faith Chemutai
Directorate of Marketing and Resource Mobilization
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