Crawford International School, located on the outskirts of Nairobi, recently hosted a lively Chinese Cultural Day, engaging students, teachers, and parents in the rich traditions of China. The event showcased various cultural elements, including music, dance, and traditional cuisine, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange and friendship between Kenya and China.
Key Takeaways
- Cultural Exchange: The event aimed to promote understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture among Kenyan students.
- Student Participation: Young learners showcased their Mandarin skills through recitations and performances, including dragon dances.
- Growing Significance: The celebration reflects the increasing global importance of Chinese culture and language.
A Day of Celebration
On February 17, the school transformed into a vibrant hub of Chinese culture. Students dressed in traditional Chinese attire participated in various activities, impressing the audience with their fluency in Mandarin and graceful performances set to classical Chinese music. The event featured:
- Speeches: Highlighting the significance of cultural exchange.
- Performances: Including dragon dances and ribbon-cutting ceremonies.
- Cuisine: Traditional Chinese dishes were served, allowing attendees to experience the flavors of China.
Educational Impact
Amanda Birkenstock, the executive principal of Crawford International School, emphasized the importance of celebrating Chinese culture. She noted that the school’s commitment to teaching Mandarin has been a significant part of its curriculum since its establishment five years ago. The school offers Mandarin lessons to students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring a high-quality learning experience.
To enhance their teaching methods, the school’s Mandarin instructors travel to China annually, keeping abreast of the latest language instruction techniques. This dedication to education has fostered a keen interest in the Chinese language among students aged three to twelve.
Strengthening Kenya-China Ties
The event also underscored the strengthening economic and cultural ties between Kenya and China. Roy Gitahi, a parent of two students at the school, expressed his belief that learning Mandarin is essential for the future, given China’s growing influence in business and culture. He stated, “Introducing children to Chinese language and culture early helps prepare them to navigate a multicultural, interconnected world.”
Engaging Young Learners
Nicole Shitolwa, a Mandarin teacher at the school, highlighted the enthusiasm of young learners in improving their Chinese language skills. Events like Chinese Cultural Day, along with educational trips to Nairobi’s Chinatown, have encouraged students to engage with various aspects of Chinese culture, including:
- Cuisine: Exploring traditional Chinese dishes.
- Dance: Learning traditional Chinese dance forms.
- Costumes: Understanding the significance of traditional attire.
Gabrielle Wangui, a 13-year-old student, shared her thoughts on the event, stating that it reflects the growing appreciation of Chinese culture among Kenyan youth. She noted that such events not only teach language but also foster deeper cultural connections in an increasingly interconnected world.
Conclusion
Crawford International School’s Chinese Cultural Day was a resounding success, showcasing the importance of cultural exchange and the growing significance of Chinese culture in Kenya. As students continue to learn and appreciate different cultures, they are better prepared to thrive in a globalized society.
