#China #Tianjin Conference #Tianjin #Luban Workshop #Skill Development

International Skill Development Takes Center Stage in Tianjin

The 2024 World Vocational and Technical Education Development Conference commenced on Thursday in Tianjin, North China. This significant conference is focused on advancing global collaboration in vocational education and showcases China's successful experience in skill development.

During the opening session, Grahame Morton, New Zealand's Ambassador to China, praised China's ambitious efforts to modernize its vocational education system. He emphasized the importance of enhancing quality, accessibility, and employability across key industries. This initiative not only credits China's progress but also highlights its potential to serve as a model for other nations.

A particularly noteworthy aspect of the conference is the recognition of the Luban Workshop, a collaborative endeavor that has rapidly gained traction across various countries. Muferihat Kamil, Ethiopia's Minister of Labor and Skills, articulated the profound impact of this partnership, stating that thousands of Ethiopian youth have benefited from world-class vocational training made possible through China's investment and support.

As of November 2024, China has successfully established 34 Luban Workshops spanning 30 nations, including Thailand, Cambodia, Portugal, Djibouti, Egypt, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. This evidence of China’s commitment to fostering global skill development is on display at a special exhibition dedicated to vocational education.

One of the highlights included in the exhibition is the innovative developments in smart transportation, showcasing advanced programs focused on automotive maintenance and intelligent urban transportation systems. This ambitious approach not only prepares participants for the global job market but also caters to the needs of rapidly evolving technological landscapes.

Additionally, the conference welcomed the formation of the World Technical and Vocational Education and Training League. Kamil described this initiative as a timely alignment with Ethiopia’s aspirations for international collaboration, hoping to draw lessons from China’s success to enhance Africa's vocational training journeys.

Mustafa Mohamed Mahmoud, Djibouti's Minister of National Education and Vocational Training, commented on the valuable insights gained during the meeting. He expressed appreciation for the shared knowledge about China's vocational education development and management strategies, acknowledging the worldwide industrial and technological revolution. He noted the critical urgency for African nations to stay attuned with these transformations to thrive in a competitive global marketplace.

Bringing together over 1,200 attendees, including more than 600 international guests from over 100 countries, the conference is themed