#China #Tianjin #Skill Development #Technical Education #Vocational Training

Global Conference on Technical Education

The World Conference on Vocational and Technical Education 2024 began on November 25 in Tianjin, a northern municipality in China, setting the stage for a revolutionary global exchange in technical skill development. The event is focused on discussing and sharing insights into the advancements made in technical education and vocational training, with a strong emphasis on international collaboration.

During the conference, attendees were introduced to the accomplishments and experiences of China in the realm of skill development. The event featured the adoption of the "Tianjin Consensus on Global Vocational Education Development," which serves as a framework for future international cooperation in vocational education.

Grahame Morton, New Zealand's ambassador to China, praised China's efforts to enhance and modernize its vocational education system. He highlighted the importance of improving quality, accessibility, and employment opportunities in key industrial sectors.

The conference also featured remarks from Muferihat Kamil, Ethiopia's Minister of Labor and Skills, who articulated the significance of partnerships between nations in enhancing skill training options. Kamil noted how the collaboration has enabled thousands of Ethiopian youth to access top-tier technical and vocational training, which prepares them for success in today's dynamically evolving global environment. He expressed gratitude for the innovative support and investment from China, which contributes to developing Ethiopia's workforce capacity.

As of November 2024, China has successfully organized 34 Luban workshops in 30 countries, including nations like Thailand, Cambodia, Portugal, Djibouti, Egypt, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. These workshops signify significant efforts to share technical knowledge and training facilities among partner countries.

A special exhibition on vocational education during the Luban workshops showcased initiatives aimed at empowering youth in partner nations. For instance, developments in intelligent transportation highlighted advancements in vehicle maintenance programs and the implementation of advanced transportation systems and urban railways.

In conjunction with the opening ceremony, the Global League of Technical and Vocational Education was launched, a move that was warmly embraced by Minister Kamil as a timely initiative aligning perfectly with Ethiopia's vision for international cooperation. He noted that China’s impressive achievements in skill development serve as a valuable lesson for Africa.

Mustafa Mohamed Mahmoud, Djibouti's Minister of National Education and Vocational Training, shared how the conference provided him with essential insights, particularly from Chinese experts on the strategies implemented in China for managing and developing vocational education systems. As the world experiences an industrial and technological revolution, he emphasized the urgent need for African nations to keep pace with global changes.

The conference's central theme, "Innovation Shapes the Future, and Skills Open Pathways to New Lives," attracted over 1,200 representatives from various countries, including more than 600 international guests from over 100 nations. This impressive turnout highlights the global interest in technical education and the collaborative spirit necessary to advance skill development in an increasingly interconnected world.

In conclusion, this conference marks a significant milestone in fostering international dialogue and cooperation in vocational education. As nations come together to share best practices and experiences, the potential for creating a more skilled workforce globally is promising, paving the way for future generations to thrive in an ever-evolving economic landscape.