Kenyan students urged to embrace Persian language to promote diversity
Education
By
Esther Nyambura
| Feb 22, 2024
As the world marked International Mother Language Day on Wednesday, February 21, Kenyans have been urged to uptake exchange programs to promote cultural diversity.
One such is through embracing scholarship opportunities being offered to Kenyan students who wish to pursue further studies in Iran.
Kenya and Iran commemorated the International Mother Language Day at Kenyatta University, urging students to take advantage and learn the Persian language, a central language in the world's trade, literature, and science.
Iran Ambassador to Kenya Ali Gholampour on Wednesday said that the partnership is aimed at bridging cultural and social gaps between the two countries.
This he said will help create awareness of the Persian language as well as strengthen the existing ties between the countries.
"This exchange program will not only enrich the academic pursuits of students but also nurture mutual understanding and friendship between our nations as we aim to enhance knowledge of Persian, a formal language in Iran, across Kenyan academic institutions and cultural spheres," said Ambassador Gholampour.
"Through initiatives like these, we can foster greater appreciation and respect for each other's cultures."
Kenyatta University has also embraced the endeavor. Recognizing the value of learning Persian, the university stands ready to support the establishment of dedicated facilities and programs tailored to the study of the language.
According to the institution's Vice Chancellor Paul Wainaina, K.U is ready to partner with the Iranian Embassy in setting up a Persian center in which students can learn and pursue the language as a course.
"I am happy to welcome the partnership with the Embassy of Iran and welcome the desire to set up a center of the Persian Language in this university," said Wainaina.
Last year, Amb. Gholampour met with the University of Nairobi's Vice-Chancellor Stephen Kiama, who like Wainaina expressed his willingness to cooperate for the exchange of students, University lectures as well as research and scientific programs with the Iranian government for the benefit of the two nations.
On his part, Iranian Cultural Counselor Ali Pourmarjan stated that the university and the Embassy will hold a joint sitting to discuss the proper framework on how to issue and receive scholarships and the eligibility criteria.
Once off the ground, the program will place Kenya among countries that teach the Persian language.