"The Art of War" opens the minds of young Kenyans to overcoming problems and planning for a better future, said Eddy Paul Kirimi, a student at the Confucius Institute of Kenyatta University in Kenya, adding that the classic enables young Africans to observe Chinese culture and wisdom on a global scale.
NAIROBI/JINAN, Aug. 10 (Xinhua) -- "The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting," said Eddy Paul Kirimi, a student at the Confucius Institute of Kenyatta University in Kenya. "If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles."
Kirimi was quoting from "The Art of War," a classic by Chinese strategist Sun Tzu dating back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC).
The ancient work, which has influenced people from the East and West alike, continues to inspire reflections among young Africans.
"Sun Tzu Book House," unveiled recently at the Confucius Institute of Kenyatta University, features various iterations of Sun Tzu's works, including some in silk, others in wood and scrolls. This is the first "Sun Tzu Book House" established abroad by east China's Shandong Province.
"The Art of War" opens the minds of young Kenyans to overcoming problems and planning for a better future, Kirimi said, adding that the classic enables young Africans to observe Chinese culture and wisdom on a global scale.
"It is not a book that advocates strength, yet it focuses on strategic wisdom and philosophy that I find useful in life and work," he said. "The most important lesson I learned from this book is that in every situation, you have to be courageous and strong, and then think it through to complete everything and achieve success."
In 2023, Kirimi spent six months studying the Chinese language at Shandong Normal University, and fell in love with China's rich and diverse culture, prompting him to seek a better understanding of Chinese civilization and promote exchanges between Kenya and China.
Phyllis Wahura Maina, another student at the Confucius Institute, said she is honing her understanding of "The Art of War" and looks forward to applying Sun Tzu's wisdom in daily life.
The book has influenced Maina's way of thinking, helping her to "think ahead before doing something" and develop strategies appropriate for different situations, she said.
Maina encouraged her compatriots to use "The Art of War" as a guide in the pursuit of their goals when facing challenges.
Fan Qingyun, a Chinese teacher at the Confucius Institute, said she often discusses "The Art of War" with her students.
According to her, the book emphasizes the wisdom and noble ideals of Sun Tzu, who advocated a people-centered approach, "to use peaceful ways to manage the relationship between countries instead of war."
The Confucius Institute will continue to promote Sun Tzu, an indispensable part of Chinese culture, so that more Africans can appreciate this cultural treasure, she said.
Fan expected more beautiful cultural traditions of the Chinese nation to be introduced to people in Africa.
"I am delighted and proud to know the fact that Sun Tzu culture is popular among young Africans," said Liu Ming, head of the project, adding that "Sun Tzu Book House" can become a platform for better mutual understanding and integration of Chinese and African cultures.
"We will open more book houses so that the wisdom of 'The Art of War' can enlighten more friends," Liu added. ■