University of Nairobi to Reopen Korean Language Section
University of Nairobi to Re-establish Korean Language Section in Collaboration with Republic of Korea
The University of Nairobi (UoN) is set to re-establish its Korean Language Section within the Department of Linguistics, following discussions between UoN officials and the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya, Kang Hyung-shik, during his courtesy visit to the University on 27 March 2026.
The discussions focused on strengthening academic, cultural, and research collaboration between UoN and the Republic of Korea. Ambassador Kang expressed interest in establishing a Department of Korean Studies in Kenya, identifying UoN as the preferred host institution. If approved, it would be the first department of its kind in Africa, with the Korea Foundation currently reviewing the proposal.
Prof. John Mande, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Human Resource and Administration at UoN, welcomed the initiative and highlighted previous successful collaborations, such as the Korean Culture Week 2025, which featured a Taekwondo demonstration at Taifa Hall. Prof. Mande emphasized that future cultural and academic exchanges, including Korean-speaking lecturers and reciprocal Swahili studies in Korea, would strengthen ties between the two nations.
Ambassador Kang highlighted Korea’s rapid socio-economic transformation and its leadership in research, innovation, and technology. He also provided updates on the KAIST campus under construction at Konza Technopolis and proposed the creation of a “Korean Corner” at UoN to support students in learning Korean and preparing for proficiency examinations.
The meeting also reviewed UoN’s 2023–2027 Strategic Plan, noting that Korea’s experience in innovation and research-driven growth offers valuable lessons for Kenya. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to fostering knowledge exchange, research collaboration, and innovation through this partnership. The Ambassador also expressed interest in engaging with UoN students through lectures and cultural events during future visits.
This renewed collaboration signals a significant step in strengthening academic and cultural ties between Kenya and Korea, providing new opportunities for students and faculty while enhancing UoN’s global engagement.
