Dr Wango said events like the poem conference give students a good platform to not only recite poems but also receive encouragement to become proficient in speaking Mandarin.

"Don't just do your exams; aim to score high and you will have an opportunity to go to China, where you can get an opportunity to have your eyes and minds opened up as well as a chance to pursue other endeavors," he said.

Dr Wango also encouraged the students to work hard and perform well in their HSK exams, the Chinese proficiency test, so that they can get an opportunity to attend summer camps. He said the 2018 camp was successful and that students should now start preparing for the 2019 one.

Professor Leonard Kisovi, board chairman for the institute, said it's important for Kenyan youth to learn Chinese language and culture because the Asian country is becoming a superpower. He added that Africa is moving away from colonial masters and facing the East for partnerships in development.

"It is important for the youth to learn Mandarin for the purpose of interacting. There are many opportunities in China, hence learning Mandarin is very important. It's also good to learn Chinese culture for the purpose of exposure," he said.