University of Nairobi Secures Major Deal for Youth Talent Development and Global Media Pathways
The University of Nairobi (UoN) to finalize a significant international partnership with Hunan Television (Hunan TV), one of China's largest state-owned media conglomerates, launching a comprehensive cultural exchange and youth talent development program. This landmark agreement is set to create direct pathways for Kenyan and African youth into the global media and creative industries. The announcement followed a high-level delegation visit to UoN on the morning of Monday, November 10, 2025.
The partnership, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Jackson Maalu, described as "an agreement rooted in the belief that cultural exchange and talent development are the true bridges connecting our nations". Prof. Maalu, speaking on behalf of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Margaret J. Hutchinson, welcomed the delegation from Hunan Province and Hunan Broadcasting.
He emphasized that the initiatives are not merely ventures but "investments in the future creative economy of Africa and China".
Zhao Chengxin, Director General of Hunan Province, described the collaborative agreement as a "roadmap for mutual growth" and committed the Hunan Provincial Government to elevating cooperation with Kenya. He praised UoN as a "vibrant hub of African talent and creativity that resonates perfectly with our vision for global engagement".
Yang Yan, Deputy General Manager and Vice President of Hunan Broadcasting, stated that Hunan TV is "dedicated to connecting global audiences," seeing media as a powerful tool for fostering genuine understanding and breaking down cultural barriers. He stated, The partnership is centered around four key initiatives designed to promote cultural exchange and nurture the next generation of global professionals: 'Sing for Africa' Talent Search: A massive platform designed to discover and amplify raw singing talent from the continent and showcase African culture to a global audience of hundreds of millions of viewers, Architectural and Art Competition: An initiative to merge Chinese and African artistic and design ingenuity, offering students and artists an exceptional platform to showcase their talents and contribute to Sino-African cultural exchange and Film Production: A plan to co-produce stories that truly reflect the shared human experience, Internships and Exchange Programs: Programs to nurture the next generation of global professionals, offering invaluable exposure and training to UoN students and staff.
Mr. John Orindi, Director of Corporate Affairs at UoN, called the collaboration a "strategic alignment" with a major global media powerhouse and pledged full support for the smooth execution of every initiative.
Prof. Lilac Osanjo, Dean of the Faculty of Built Environment and Design, expressed excitement over the Architectural and Art Competition, stating, "Creativity knows no borders, and design is a universal language". Dr. Ogutu, Manager of Radio and Television, also noted the eagerness to begin the journey of Film Production and the 'Sing for Africa' search, highlighting the importance of the internships and exchange programs.
In a major announcement, Director General Zhao Chengxin officially revealed that the inaugural Hunan Film Week in Africa will be held in Nairobi, Kenya, in May 2026. The University of Nairobi is positioned as a central partner and host for the film week, highlighting its crucial role in the new Sino-African creative economy.
