The Seminar on Vocational Education Models and Technical Skills for Developing Countries, organized by Shanghai Business School, commenced successfully on Novenber 3rd. The opening ceremony, sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce and hosted by the MOFCOM Training Base for International Business Officials (Shanghai) at Shanghai Business School, marked a noteworthy inauguration. Liu Beimin, the researcher from the Foreign Economic Cooperation Department of Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce and Chen Wei, the executive vice dean of the College of International Education, Shanghai Business School and deputy director of the MOFCOM Training Base for International Business Officials (Shanghai) were present at the ceremony.
The profound connection between vocational education and economic and social development was underscored during the ceremony. Recognized as a pivotal force in promoting employment and entrepreneurship, and overall societal well-being, vocational education holds significant importance. Since the initiation of "the Belt and Road Initiative", China has actively carried out international cooperation in vocational education, yielding commendable outcomes across 70 countries and international organizations on five continents. Vocational education is gradually fostering global connections by addressing youth employment and enhancing people's livelihoods, emerging as a key instrument for international cooperation in economy, trade and cultural exchanges.
Ms. Liu Beimin emphasized the pivoital role of vocational education in the national education system and human resources development. She highlighted its responsiblility in cultivating diverse talents, inheriting technical skills, and promoting employment and entrepreneurship. Since the reform and opening up, China's rapid economy growth owns much to vocational education, positioning as an essential part of China's international exchanges and cooperation. The commitment to offering new measures for global vocational education was expressed, providing the world with Chinese solutions and wisdom.
Chen Wei reiterated China’s dedication to vocational education development. Referring to the 20th National Congress of CPC, emphasized was the need to coordinate collaborative innovation in vocational education, higher education and continual education. The integration of vocational and general education, production and education, and science and education were also key focal points. The philosophy, value and standard of Chinese vocational education were presented as reference models and paths. Chen Wei stated that all the participants can discuss the solutions to improve the development of vocational education models in their respective countries during this seminar.
Ms. Regana Hakmat, the official representative from Suriname's Ministry of Interior, shared insights into Suriname’s vocational education development. Expressing a desire to learn from China's practices and share Suriname’s experiences, Mr. Hakmat hoped for fruitful exchanges during the seminar. Anticipating the development of friendships, exchangesm and cooperation between developing countries and China, she recognized the seminar as a significant starting point.
The 20-day seminar will host29 officials from 10 countries, including Jamaica, Jordan, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Rwanda, South Africa, Suriname and Uganda. Participants will engage in discussion and visit Changchun City, Jilin Province, as part of the seminar itinerary.
Written by: Zhang Xinyue
Photos by: Ni Haoran
Reviewed by: Chen Wei
