Egerton University has become a beneficiary of the Confucius Institute programme’s worldwide growth, which added 15 new institutes and one classroom across 14 nations this year.
Vice-chancellor Isaac Ongubo Kibwage emphasized that their institute follows a unique approach, serving as a center for agricultural technology transfer while also facilitating cultural exchange and academic partnerships.
Kibwage explained that this facility stands as the world’s first Confucius Institute specifically oriented toward agricultural knowledge, combining Chinese language education with instruction in modern farming techniques.
The institute runs eight teaching locations and welcomes close to 3,000 students each year. It has additionally assisted local farming communities through 45 training initiatives that have reached 2,413 people, while partnership with Nanjing Agricultural University has led to the creation of joint research facilities and demonstration sites.
China Daily reported that Algeria and Guinea-Bissau became first-time participants in the programme, representing a significant achievement in its global outreach. The expansion was formally recognized in Beijing last month through a plaque presentation ceremony for 10 newly created institutions during a World Chinese Language Conference sub-forum, coinciding with the programme’s 21st anniversary celebrations.
These recent additions brought the worldwide total to 510 Confucius Institutes operating in 164 countries and regions by the end of October, highlighting their expanding importance as international platforms for Chinese language instruction and cross-cultural engagement.
The new Confucius Institute in Algeria has attracted considerable attention, especially from younger demographics.
Assia Kaced from University of Algiers 2 observed that interest in learning Chinese is growing due to strengthening economic connections between Algeria and China and the expanding presence of Chinese businesses locally.
She pointed out that Chinese language skills are creating fresh employment prospects for Algerian youth, adding that the institute aims to go beyond language instruction by helping dispel misconceptions and building understanding and trust among young Algerians and Chinese.
China’s vice-minister of education Ren Youqun characterized Confucius Institutes as having developed into a globally recognized framework for educational and cultural partnership over two decades.
He emphasized the importance of tailoring programs to match the requirements of Chinese companies operating abroad and the professional aspirations of students to strengthen practical collaboration between China and other nations.
Beijing Language and Culture University president Duan Peng noted that Confucius Institutes continue assisting young people globally who are interested in Chinese language and culture while encouraging reciprocal learning and cooperation.
He mentioned that the university annually sends nearly 100 seasoned educators to serve as Chinese directors and teachers, along with over 100 volunteers, to address the staffing requirements of Confucius Institutes around the world.
