In the long history of friendly exchanges between Ethiopia and China, another milestone project - China-Ethiopia “Chinese + Vocational Skills” is steadily stepping forward, aiming to deepen cooperation in vocational education between the two countries and promote the cultivation of skilled talents in Ethiopia. Since the project was officially launched by the Ministry of Labour and Skills (MoLSs) in 2022, it has been carrying the great expectation of facilitating mutual understanding and skills advancement between the two peoples. The first batch of institutes participated in the project this year including Yellow River Conservancy Technical Institute, Henan Polytechnic, Henan Polytechnic Institute, and Xuchang Vocational Technical College 

Back in June 2023, the launching ceremony of this project started in a warm atmosphere in Henan, China. Dr. Teshale Berecha Yadessa, State Minister for MoLSs, gave a video presentation to express his confidence and good wishes for the success of the project. At the ceremony, His Excellency Tefera Derbew Yimam, the Ethiopian Ambassador to China, was present at the event and delivered a passionate speech, highly appreciating the significance of the project in strengthening youth exchanges between the two countries and enhancing the vocational skills of Ethiopian youth.

In order to obtain a deep understanding of the participating Chinese institutes, Dr. Solomon Mekonnen Teklu, the Director of International Relations and Partnership of FTVTI, traveled to China and visited six high-level vocational institutes participating in the project. These institutes are all top-ranked on the list of China’s vocational institutes for their excellent quality of teaching, rich practical opportunities, and achievements in international exchanges. During the visits, both sides further deepened their understanding and enhanced mutual trust, laying a more solid foundation for the in-depth cooperation of the project.

The “Chinese + Vocational Skills” training base was inaugurated in Addis Ababa by Her Excellency Muferihat Kamil, Minister of MoLSs, and Dr. Biruk Kedir, Director General of the FTVTI, marking the official launch of the cooperative project in Ethiopian and building a broader platform for Ethiopian youth to learn, to grow, and to march towards China and the world.

Reportedly, the first training of the project is in progress, covering several specialized areas, such as water conservancy and hydropower technology, mechatronics, intelligent welding, and automotive testing and maintenance technology. The trainees who have completed the training will be awarded Certificate of Completion by Chinese institutes. Subsequent training is under preparation. The governments of the two countries and all sectors have high expectations for this project and will continue to provide strong support to ensure a stable long-term operation. Through this project, more Ethiopians will grow up in this land of hope, and with their wisdom and sweat, they will head for a greater future together with Ethiopia.