In a significant stride toward fostering global academic and cultural collaboration, Kenyatta University hosted His Excellency Ambassador Kang Hyungshik of the Republic of Korea on 23rd May, 2025. Marking his first-ever visit to the institution, Ambassador Kang was warmly received by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul Wainaina, and a distinguished delegation from the University.
Accompanied by Ms. Lee Seyeong, Second Secretary at the Korean Embassy, Colonel Kim, a Korean Language and Culture Professor at the King Sejong Institute, and Ms. Hannah Muhia, a lecturer at the same institute, Ambassador Kang’s visit underscored the growing importance of educational diplomacy.
The courtesy call commenced with introductions from senior university officials, including Prof. James Kung’u, Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), and several executive deans and departmental heads. Prof. Kung’u provided a comprehensive overview of Kenyatta University’s academic framework, schools, and state-of-the-art facilities, highlighting the institution's expansive role in higher education in Kenya.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Wainaina emphasised the value of international partnerships in elevating the university’s global profile. He cited ongoing collaborations that have already yielded fruitful outcomes, expressing keen interest in deepening ties with Korean institutions. Ambassador Kang reciprocated this sentiment, highlighting the strong diplomatic relations between Kenya and Korea and expressing optimism about long-term academic cooperation.
One of the major highlights of the meeting was the acknowledgement of the King Sejong Institute, a beacon of Korean culture and language studies that has been operating at Kenyatta University for over 11 years. Ambassador Kang praised the university’s excellence in the arts, particularly in music, film, and drama, and announced an upcoming Korean speaking competition on May 30, 2025, where the winner will earn a trip to Korea. Colonel Kim further encouraged the pursuit of Korean language studies as a gateway to numerous opportunities in Korea, stressing the importance of achieving proficiency through Level 1 certification.
The discussion also touched on technological collaboration, with the School of Engineering voicing interest in aligning with Korea’s advancements in emerging technologies. Notably, the School of Health Sciences has already established ties with Gwangju Christian University, receiving equipment and support to launch one of Kenya's few dental programs.
The visit reaffirmed the University’s position as a premier institution of higher education in Kenya, setting the tone for future engagements and underscoring both parties’ commitment to educational excellence, cultural exchange, and technological advancement. As Kenyatta University continues to expand its global partnerships, the collaboration with the Republic of Korea serves as a model of meaningful international cooperation in higher education.