#China #Global Cooperation #Vocational Education #Tianjin Conference #Tianjin

Global Conference on Vocational Education Opens New Pathways

The 2024 Global Conference on Vocational and Technical Education commenced on November 25, 2024, in Tianjin, China. This significant event brings together over 1,200 representatives from the domestic and international communities, fostering a dialogue aimed at enhancing skill development around the world. The conference serves as a critical platform for sharing successful practices and experiences, primarily showcasing China's advancements in vocational education.

During the opening session, attendees adopted the Tianjin Consensus on World Vocational Education Development, a significant step toward establishing a new framework for global cooperation in the field of vocational training. The ambassador of New Zealand to China, Grahame Morton, expressed appreciation for China's initiatives to improve and modernize its vocational education system. He underscored the importance of enhancing quality, accessibility, and employability across key industry sectors.

Muferihat Kamil, Ethiopia's Minister of Labor and Skills, emphasized the partnership fostered through initiatives like the Luban Workshop, which exemplifies the collaborative spirit between sister nations. This workshop has provided thousands of Ethiopian youths with access to top-notch technical and vocational training that prepares them for a dynamic global environment.

Kamil further acknowledged the continuous innovative support and investments China has demonstrated, significantly boosting Ethiopia’s workforce and sustainable development. As noted during the conference, by November 2024, China had established 34 Luban Workshops across 30 countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, Portugal, Djibouti, Egypt, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.

A special exhibition dedicated to vocational education highlighted the achievements of the Luban Workshop, notably its focus on promoting youth development in partner countries. In the smart transportation sector, it showcased programs related to automotive maintenance and the development of intelligent transportation and urban rail systems.

The conference also marked the launch of the World Technical and Vocational Education and Training League, an initiative aimed at fostering further collaboration. Minister Kamil expressed enthusiasm for this timely initiative, aligning perfectly with Ethiopia's vision for global cooperation. He looks forward to reinforcing partnerships with China, whose impressive accomplishments in skills development provide invaluable inspiration for Africa's path forward.

Mustafa Mohamed Mahmoud, the Minister of National Education and Vocational Training from Djibouti, shared insights gained from the meeting, particularly regarding the mechanisms China has adopted to develop and manage its vocational education system. As the world faces an industrial and technological revolution, he stressed the need for African countries to keep pace with global developments.

With the theme “Innovation Drives the Future, Skills Open New Opportunities,” the conference gathered over 600 international guests from more than 100 countries, highlighting the collective effort towards addressing the challenges faced in vocational education globally. The discussions and exchanges of ideas during this important event pave the way for innovation and improved practices in vocational training across the globe, representing a beacon of hope for future collaborations and skill enhancements.