Chinese book corner to enlighten Kenyan civil servants on Chinese culture

More Kenyan civil servants will now get an opportunity to learn and understand the rich Chinese culture as well as improve their Mandarin skills following the launch of a Chinese book corner at the Kenya School of Government library.

The library features books containing Chinese literature and knowledge as well as those translated from Mandarin to the local language Kiswahili and highlights the history, culture, and development of China.

According to Charles Nyachae, chairman of the Council of the Kenya School of Government, civil servants who are interested in studying the Chinese culture and language outside the formal learning institutions will be able to do so, thanks to the opening of the section on Wednesday. The Kenya School of Government is responsible for the transformation of the public service through the development of knowledge and competencies among civil servants.

Nyachae expressed the institution's appreciation for the donation of books and believes that this initiative will deepen civil servants' and scholars' understanding of China's history, culture and transformation.

Nura Mohamed, acting director at the Kenya School of Government, said: "The value that local officials and students will gain from the wealth of knowledge contained in the journals and books at the China corner in our library cannot be understated. Access to publications covering liberal arts and applied sciences is expected to enhance the world views of public servants, motivating them to become more efficient and dedicated," Mohamed said.

During the launch, Zhou Pingjian, China's ambassador to Kenya delivered a public lecture on 'China's Transformation Journey'. During the lecture, Zhou advised African countries to be ready to accept reforms, be open to ideas and chart their development path. He also assured the embassy's support to the Kenya School of Government noting that a team from the school will travel to China in the coming months as part of this collaboration.