Qiu Yong Strengthens Educational Partnerships in Kenya During Visit to Tsinghua University
Qiu Yong, Secretary of the CPC Tsinghua University Committee, visited Kenya from November 26 to 28 to advance educational partnerships aligned with agreements established between the leaders of China and Kenya. The primary objective of the visit was to promote collaboration in areas related to education and science and to facilitate cultural exchanges between Tsinghua University and institutions in Kenya. This effort is part of Tsinghua’s broader initiative to build collaborative relations between the two nations.
Visit to the University of Nairobi
On November 28, Qiu visited the University of Nairobi, where discussions took place with Chancellor Patrick Verkooijen and Acting Vice Chancellor Margaret Jesang’ Hutchinson, resulting in the signing of a new cooperation agreement. Qiu noted the significance of the University of Nairobi as a crucial partner for Tsinghua, highlighting its role as a founding member of the Global MOOC and Online Education Alliance. The discussions focused on aspirations for expanded faculty and student exchanges, enhanced cultural interactions, and increased collaboration in various fields, including artificial intelligence, climate change, public health, and hospital management.
Verkooijen and Hutchinson provided an overview of the University of Nairobi’s historical context and institutional strengths, expressing a desire to utilize Tsinghua’s successful practices to foster deeper collaboration.
Speech on AI and Education
During his visit, Qiu delivered a speech titled “Universities in the Age of AI: Reflections, Responsibilities and Actions” at the University of Nairobi, which was attended by over 300 representatives from both Chinese and Kenyan institutions. The session included expert contributions from both universities and centered on the role of education in the context of artificial intelligence. Qiu emphasized the necessity for universities to support AI-driven teaching and research while addressing governance and standards to mitigate disparities in AI competencies.
Meetings with International Organizations
Additionally, Qiu met with Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, Deputy Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat). The discussions focused on potential collaborations between Tsinghua University and international organizations aimed at supporting sustainable development initiatives in Africa. A Letter of Intent for cooperation was exchanged with UN-Habitat during these meetings.
Inauguration of the Tsinghua University Africa Center
On November 26, Qiu also visited the Karen Base of the Power Construction Corporation of China (POWERCHINA) to inaugurate the newly established Tsinghua University Africa Center, designed to serve as a hub for academic engagement and cooperation with African countries. The center, previously known as the Tsinghua University China-Africa Leadership Development Institute, is intended to facilitate talent development, academic research, and technological innovation while aligning with the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Enhancing Educational Cooperation
During the visit, Qiu discussed avenues for enhancing educational cooperation between China and Kenya with Guo Haiyan, the Chinese ambassador to Kenya, and engaged with Tsinghua alumni residing in Africa. Various department heads and faculty members from Tsinghua University participated in activities throughout the visit.
Original source: Tsinghua University.
