Since the launch of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has emphasised five key areas of connectivity to strengthen cooperation across various sectors, including politics, economics, and culture. These major areas include: (1) people-to-people bonds, (2) policy coordination, (3) infrastructure connectivity, (4) unimpeded trade, and (5) financial integration. Talent development has been identified as a critical component for the successful implementation of these initiatives. With over 140 countries and regions currently participating in the BRI, there is an urgent need to adopt measures that keep pace with global technological advancements. By embracing new technologies, the initiative seeks to promote interconnection and interoperability in business activities across nations.
In recent years, applied science and vocational education have emerged as key development areas in many BRI countries and regions. These initiatives aim to support talent development, create a robust supply of skilled professionals, and meet the specific needs of diverse industries. Applied science education is vital to addressing the growing demand for professionals with both practical expertise and academic knowledge to drive industrial development. Building an ecosystem that closely integrates education and industry, strengthening industry-university-research cooperation, and enabling the commercialisation and adoption of technologies developed by institutions are key concerns for the education and industry sectors. The ultimate goal is to develop sustainable business models that foster long-term growth for BRI countries and regions.
THEi’s Work Integrated Learning (WIL) approach enriches students’ industry experience before they enter the job market. The strong industry support we receive is the foundation of THEi, enabling us to foster a new generation of entrepreneurs through innovative entrepreneurship activities. In response to the global trend of utilising digital technology, THEi has implemented artificial intelligence in key areas such as music technology, new energy, digital manufacturing, infrastructure development, hospitality and tourism, global logistics technology, social sciences, banking and finance, and education.
The forum aims to create a platform for professionals, industry experts, potential investors, and other stakeholders to share insights on talent development in Belt and Road countries and regions and explore ways the education sector can support economic growth. Education, when aligned with industrial development, plays a vital role in cultivating a skilled workforce that meets market demands. It is crucial to develop academic programmes that accurately match the practical and advanced research skillsets required by each country. The programme aims to produce graduates with strong hands-on and practical abilities, while ensuring their academic knowledge meets world academic standards. The relevant programmes will also be recognised by professional organisations to support the future career development of graduates. The success of future educational programmes depends on collaboration between industry, government, and educational institutions, with active participation from the industry being a key element. This forum offers a platform for all participants to contribute their ideas and collaborate instantly during the discussions. The forum focuses on the following key areas:
- Education and talent development for the twenty-first century
- Higher education–industry cooperation (HIC)
- Cultural exchange and development in higher education
- Education’s role in meeting industry needs in digital technology and advancement
Participants will have the opportunity to discuss with representatives from higher education institutions and organisations along the Belt and Road countries and regions, as well as guest speakers, how their organisations can support and develop collaboration plans, such as joint academic programmes and cross-border initiatives, to negotiate long-term goals.
The “Belt and Road” Leadership Forum on Applied Science and Vocational Education
Date: 5 June, 2025
Time: 09:00 – 17:00
Target audience: Educators, industry experts, and businesses interested in expanding along the Belt and Road countries and regions
Location: Exhibition Hall (S005), THEi (Chai Wan Campus), 133 Shing Tai Road, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
Language: English and Putonghua (with Simultaneous Interpretation)
