- KCA University has unveiled a Korean Language Centre to strengthen graduates’ global employability and cross-cultural competence.
- The facility, established in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, will support scholarships, research and international academic exchanges.
- University leaders say the centre will prepare students for careers in multinational organisations and global innovation ecosystems.
KCA University has officially launched a Korean Language Centre at its main campus in Ruaraka, Nairobi, in a move aimed at enhancing graduates’ global competitiveness and expanding international academic partnerships.
The state-of-the-art facility was officially presented to Kenya by the Republic of Korea’s Ambassador, Kang Hyung-Shik, who was the chief guest during the university’s 20th graduation ceremony.
The Ambassador was joined by KCA University Chancellor FCPA Dr. Martin Oduor-Otieno, University Council Vice-Chair Lyn Mengich, and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Isaiah Wakindiki.
Dr. Oduor-Otieno said the Korean Language Centre would strengthen bilateral relations between Kenya and the Republic of Korea while establishing a regional hub for cross-cultural learning in East Africa.
He said the centre would serve as a career accelerator as higher education increasingly embraces globalisation.
“By seamlessly pairing technical degrees with formal Korean language proficiency, KCA University gives its graduates an unmatched competitive edge in the global market,” he said.
“The centre directly positions the institution as a leading nurturer of global citizens equipped to navigate multinational environments.”
Scholarships and research opportunities
According to Dr. Oduor-Otieno, the impact of the centre extends beyond language learning.
Supported by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, the facility will provide students and faculty with opportunities to access fully funded scholarships, scientific research grants and partnerships with global companies such as Samsung, LG and Hyundai.
He added that the centre would also facilitate international academic exchanges and strengthen KCA University’s position as a globally competitive research institution.
“The Korean Language Centre represents our commitment to institutional globalisation and academic innovation. By providing a platform where cultural intelligence meets technical ability, we are ensuring that a KCA University degree remains a highly respected asset in the international corporate landscape,” he said.
Strengthening Kenya–Korea ties
Ambassador Kang Hyung-Shik described the launch as a significant milestone in the 60-year diplomatic relationship between Kenya and the Republic of Korea.
“By establishing this centre, KCA University is not just teaching a language; it is creating a pathway for young people to access global scholarships, collaborative research and career opportunities within the world’s leading technological ecosystems,” he said.
“We are proud to partner with an institution that deliberately prepares its students to think globally and succeed internationally.”
University Council Vice-Chair Lyn Mengich said the initiative reflects the university’s commitment to expanding opportunities for students and faculty.
“This centre is a strategic investment that responds directly to the changing demands of the global labour market. By embedding linguistic and cultural competencies into our academic ecosystem, we are giving our graduates a distinct competitive advantage in international careers,” she said.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Isaiah Wakindiki described the Korean Language Centre as a major addition to the university’s academic programmes.
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He said KCA University is committed to producing graduates who are not only ready for the Kenyan job market but are also equipped with the cross-cultural skills required to thrive in international environments.
By Bernard Magada
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