Foreign students visit a batik craft exhibition during the 2024 China-ASEAN Education Cooperation Week in southwest China’s Guizhou Province, Aug. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Tao Liang)
Expanding ASEAN-China Collaboration: Vocational Training for a Brighter Future
NANNING, Dec. 23—Amid a surge in regional cooperation, a specialized training program in China is making waves in the field of vocational education. At Liuzhou Polytechnic University in southern China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, international students like Muhammad Luthfi Adri from Jakarta State Polytechnic in Indonesia are gaining skills crucial for their future careers.
A Journey of Learning
“I’ve learned advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills from this program,” explained the 21-year-old student. Luthfi is one of 20 international students educated in China as part of a joint initiative by Guangxi LiuGong Machinery Co., Ltd., and Liuzhou Polytechnic University.
Program Details
The training program offers a blend of classroom instruction and practical internships at LiuGong. This approach equips students with essential technical expertise and industry experience, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the engineering machinery sector.
Broader Collaboration
This initiative underscores the expanding collaboration between China and ASEAN in the realm of vocational education. Such programs include degree courses, employer-assisted training, and short-term exchanges, aiming to equip workers with the skills needed to meet regional industry demands.
Guangxi’s Role
Guangxi, historically a hub for Sino-ASEAN partnerships, plays a pivotal role in fostering these efforts. The region’s universities boast 17 vocational institutes tailored to the needs of ASEAN markets, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, transportation, and energy.
Benefits for Business
For corporations like LiuGong, which operates globally, these partnerships address the challenge of sourcing skilled workers for international operations. “Joining the training program gives students a chance to work with a leading company and grow into key players in the field,” noted Luo Guobing, senior vice president of LiuGong.
Success Stories
Graduates like Intira Punwilai, a Thai student from a mechatronics program, now contribute to high-tech Chinese companies in Thailand. Her skills and multilingual proficiency have made her a valuable asset and a mentor for new staff.
Multilingual Training Materials
To support vocational education in ASEAN countries, Guangxi has developed multilingual training resources available in languages such as Thai and Indonesian. These materials target workforce development in growing sectors like textiles, e-commerce, and tourism.
Regional Economic Impact
“Closer cooperation in these areas is conducive to industrial growth in ASEAN and the sound development of the regional economy,” said Huang Rongmei, director of the International Exchange Affairs Office at Guangxi Economic and Trade Vocational Institute.
Conclusion
The collaboration between China and ASEAN in vocational education is ushering in a new era of industrial growth and economic development. By investing in skilled workers, these programs are building a foundation for a prosperous future in the region.
(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
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