Through Confucius Institute in Kenyatta University, the Department of Physical Education, Exercise and Sports Science has established a collaboration platform with Shandong Normal University in China. Shandong Province is considered a hub for Chinese traditional martial arts, including Taijiquan. While Shandong Normal University focuses on academic and cultural aspects of Wushu, the broader region is noted for its competitive and traditional training schools.
Prof. Wang Sen the Dean, Department Of Martial Art and Traditional Ethnic sports, Shandong Normal University has invited the Department of Physical Education, Exercise and Sports Science in Kenyatta University for a partnership in Annual Martial Arts Training for students pursuing fields that train body awareness, technique and expression in matters aesthetic and functional movement. The engagements commenced on Wednesday, 25th March, 2026 at International Language and Cultural Centre (ILCC).
Prof. Wang Sen - Dean, Department Of Martial Art and Traditional Ethnic sports, Shandong Normal University pose for a photo with Dr. Juliah Githang’a, Chairperson of the Department of Physical Education, Exercise and Sports Science together holding a gifted message on the ‘fluidity of life in limitless potential with bounds unknown’ on Wednesday, 25th March, 2026 at International Language and Cultural Centre
This initiative with Shandong Normal University is aimed at selecting students pursuing Physical Education and Sports Science for martial arts training. Two Martial Arts trainers from Shandong Normal University- Mr. Guo Ziyou and Mr. Wang Fazh that are also professional competitors will conduct the training sessions to complement the Competency Based Education programme outcomes in the department. Martial arts education, particularly Wushu, offers significant benefits to university students, enhancing social adaptability, physical health, and comprehensive quality.
This platform will also support achievement of competencies through the various academic programmes offered in the Department of Physical Education, Exercise and Sports Science. These programs improve communication skills, foster mental resilience, and align with holistic development goals. It promotes discipline, self-regulation, and cultural, patriotic values.
Shandong Normal University integrates Wushu into its cultural education and has hosted cultural integration events featuring martial arts performances with international partners, such as Kenyatta University.
Prof. Wang Sen - Dean, Department Of Martial Art and Traditional Ethnic sports, Shandong Normal University (center) with Dr. Juliah Githang’a, Chairperson of the Department of Physical Education, Exercise and Sports Science (on his right) next to Dr. Susan Wachira representing Prof. Leonard Chacha Mwita- Director, Confucius Institute together with Prof. Zhou Xuedong - Chinese Director, Confucius Institute (standing next to Prof. Wang Sen). On his left is Dr. Benson Gathoni, a faculty member and a Martial Arts professional in the Department of Physical Education, Exercise and Sports Science and on extreme side are Mr. Guo Ziyou and Mr. Wang Fazh, Martial Arts Trainers and Professional competitors from Shandong Normal University on Wednesday, 25th March, 2026 at International Language and Cultural Centre
Department Partners with Shandong University to Train Students in Traditional Martial Arts
The Department of Physical Education, Exercise and Sports Science (PEESS) has expanded its international engagement through a partnership with Shandong University aimed at training students in Traditional Martial Arts. The initiative provides an important platform for technical exposure, cultural exchange and skills development in combat-based physical education, while strengthening the department’s efforts to internationalize student training and practical learning. Through the programme, selected students are being prepared to deepen their understanding of traditional martial arts techniques, discipline, movement control and the wider educational value of structured combat sports training. The selection process was conducted by experts in collaboration with Dr Benson Gathoni of PEESS, who teaches combat sports and Taekwondo in the department. Their involvement helped ensure that the students chosen for the programme demonstrated interest, potential and readiness to benefit from advanced practical instruction. Beyond technical training, the partnership reflects the department’s commitment to building global academic and sports linkages that enrich student learning, broaden exposure and strengthen specialized capacity in combat sports. It also opens opportunities for future collaboration in coaching, research, talent identification and intercultural exchange in martial arts and related disciplines. By connecting students to international partners and specialized training pathways, PEESS continues to position sport and physical education as a bridge for excellence, innovation and global engagement.
Students selected for Traditional Martial Arts training pose for a group photo during the department's partnership engagement with Shandong University.