The Free Travelling Theatre University of Nairobi in action

This was revealed today during a meeting between the University and the Osaka in the World Committee. The President of the Osaka in the World Committee Mr. Yamanishi Ippei, said that the organization has over the years hosted students from various parts of the world and this year, it was found fit to host an African country. Kenya and in particular the University of Nairobi were identified out of respect and admiration of the initiatives of  Nobel Laureate, the Late Prof. Wangari Maathai.

The 17 students, accompanied by 3 members of staff, will be involved in activities that promote global peace through cultural exchange programmes .The students will be accommodated by Osaka families; and will have an opportunity to interact with students from various primary and secondary schools in Osaka as well as the community at large. At the end of their stay, the students will be named peace ambassadors.

Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jacob Kaimenyi, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, cited the importance of peace and cultural exchange programmes. He said that the Kenyan constitution emphasizes the promotion of culture as it gives people from diverse backgrounds an opportunity to learn about each other. Without such interactions, negative attitudes and beliefs are cultivated and as result misunderstandings develop which in the long run affect peace and harmony.

Those present during the meeting included Prof. Enos Njeru, Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. S. Mitema, Director, Centre for International Programmes and Linkages and Prof. Peter Wasamba, Associate Dean, Faculty of  Arts.