Somali and Burundian Students Share Their Nairobi Experience

Studying abroad can be a transformative experience, and for many Somali and Burundian students, Nairobi offers a unique blend of opportunities, challenges, and memorable experiences. As a leading educational hub in East Africa, Nairobi attracts students from various parts of the continent, and for those from Somalia and Burundi, the city presents both a place of learning and personal growth. Here, we share some insights from Somali and Burundian students about their journey studying in Nairobi, focusing on their academic, cultural, and social experiences.

Academic Opportunities in Nairobi

1. High-Quality Education Many Somali and Burundian students are drawn to Nairobi because of the diverse range of educational institutions offering top-tier programs. For those at Delight Technical College, the practical skills and hands-on approach in courses like fashion design, media studies, digital skills, and entrepreneurship have been especially beneficial.

“The practical knowledge I’ve gained in digital media has helped me grow both academically and professionally. Nairobi is an ideal place for such technical education.” — Fatima, Somali student.

1. Access to Modern Learning Resources Nairobi’s educational institutions provide students with access to cutting-edge resources like modern labs, libraries, and e-learning platforms. For students pursuing technical and vocational education (TVET), this access has proven invaluable.

“The resources at Delight are amazing! We have access to modern technology, and the teachers really care about our progress. It’s very different from what we had back home.” — Joseph, Burundian student.

1. International Exposure Nairobi is home to students from all over the world, providing a rich cultural exchange. Somali and Burundian students enjoy meeting peers from various countries and learning about different cultures while deepening their global perspectives.

“Nairobi is an international city, and it’s an advantage because you get to learn from people of different cultures and backgrounds. It helps prepare you for the global job market.” — Ibrahim, Somali student.

Cultural Integration and Social Life

1. Community and Support For Somali and Burundian students, the presence of a supportive community makes it easier to adapt to life in Nairobi. Many have formed close-knit groups with other international students, and cultural exchange becomes a key part of their social life.

“I met many Somali and Burundian students here, and together we support each other, sharing our experiences and helping each other navigate this new environment.” — Amina, Burundian student.

1. Celebrating Somali and Burundian Culture In Nairobi, Somali and Burundian students find that they are able to maintain their cultural identity while adapting to a new environment. From community celebrations of Somali and Burundian holidays to events showcasing East African music, food, and dance, students can engage with their heritage while exploring Nairobi’s diverse cultural landscape.

“I never miss Somali Independence Day celebrations in Nairobi. It’s a chance to connect with other Somalis, and it feels like home.” — Hussein, Somali student.

1. Food and Restaurants Nairobi’s diverse food scene is a highlight for many students. Somali and Burundian students enjoy the variety of food from their home countries, as well as the opportunity to explore Kenyan cuisine and other international dishes.

“I love that I can find Somali restaurants here. It’s comforting to taste food from back home while exploring new flavors from Kenyan and other African cuisines.” — Juma, Burundian student.

Challenges and Opportunities

1. Language and Communication One of the initial challenges for Somali and Burundian students is the language barrier. While many are fluent in English, Swahili may pose a challenge, especially when engaging in daily life outside the classroom. However, Nairobi offers opportunities for students to quickly pick up Swahili through language exchange programs, local interactions, and community events.

“Swahili was a bit challenging at first, but with time and practice, I feel more comfortable speaking it now. It’s great for getting around the city and connecting with Kenyans.” — Nasra, Somali student.

1. Cultural Adjustment Adjusting to a new culture can be challenging, but Somali and Burundian students note that Nairobi is a welcoming city for international students. Many institutions, like Delight, offer orientation programs and support networks to help students settle in and navigate their academic and social life.

“At first, the hustle and bustle of Nairobi felt overwhelming, but the city’s vibrancy grew on me. It’s a city full of opportunities, and now I love it.” — Felix, Burundian student.

1. Job Opportunities and Internships Nairobi is considered the economic hub of East Africa, and for students looking to gain real-world experience, the city offers ample internship and job opportunities in industries like media, fashion, technology, and hospitality. Somali and Burundian students have been able to leverage their education at Delight to tap into these opportunities, enhancing their employability.

“After completing my studies, I secured an internship at a media company in Nairobi. It was a huge boost for my career, and I feel optimistic about my future.” — Halima, Somali student.

Looking Ahead: Success Stories and Future Aspirations

Many Somali and Burundian students see their time in Nairobi as an important step toward achieving their long-term goals. From aspiring fashion designers to digital media professionals and entrepreneurs, students share a common desire to use their education to make a difference back home or in the wider East African region.

“I’m excited about the opportunities ahead. After I complete my course at Delight, I plan to start my own fashion line that combines Burundian and Kenyan elements. Nairobi is the perfect place to make my dreams come true.” — Gaudence, Burundian student.

“Studying in Nairobi has given me the tools and confidence to pursue my passion for media. I hope to go back to Somalia and contribute to the development of the media industry there.” — Abdi, Somali student.

Conclusion: A City of Opportunities

For Somali and Burundian students, Nairobi has proven to be an enriching environment for both personal and academic growth. The combination of high-quality education, a welcoming multicultural community, and the city’s dynamic job market creates an ideal atmosphere for students to thrive. As more students from across Africa choose Nairobi for their studies, it’s clear that the city continues to be a vital hub for education, cultural exchange, and professional development.

With the support of institutions like Delight Technical College, Somali and Burundian students are not only gaining valuable skills but also building connections that will help them succeed in their careers and contribute to their home countries’ growth and development.