On 24 June 2026, Guizhou Technological College of Ecology and Energy, China, and Delta State University, Nigeria, successfully conducted the Signing & Inaugural Ceremony of the “Chinese Language + Vocational Skills” Training Programme, signifying the official commencement of a new international partnership focused on vocational education, language learning, and cultural exchange.
The ceremony began with opening remarks by Mr. Li Zhengping, President of Guizhou Technological College of Ecology and Energy, who emphasized that cuisine serves as a universal language connecting cultures and expressed the college’s commitment to delivering high-quality vocational education through international collaboration. He highlighted that the programme represents an important milestone in promoting Chinese language learning alongside practical vocational skills, while fostering friendship and mutual understanding between China and Nigeria.
Representing Delta State University, Prof. Samuel O. Asagba, Vice Chancellor, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to global engagement and recognized the partnership as a valuable platform for intercultural learning, academic exchange, and professional development. He noted that integrating vocational education with cultural appreciation equips students with the knowledge and global perspectives needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
The event continued with the Virtual Signing Ceremony and Inaugural Ceremony, officially launching the collaborative training programme between the two institutions.
Following the ceremony, participants attended the inaugural workshop, “Blooming Philosophy in Oriental Pastry: The Chinese-style Lotus Crisp,” conducted by Mr. Liu Zhi, Instructor at Guizhou Technological College of Ecology and Energy. As a Second-Class Chinese Culinary Technician, Senior Chinese Pastry Chef, and Two-Star Qian Cuisine Master, Mr. Liu guided participants through the preparation of the traditional Chinese lotus crisp, introducing not only its culinary techniques but also the cultural symbolism of the lotus, which represents purity, harmony, and beauty in Chinese culture.
The programme concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, together with participant feedback and attendance activities.
The establishment of the “Chinese Language + Vocational Skills” Training Programme marks a significant milestone in strengthening educational cooperation between China and Nigeria. By integrating language learning with vocational training and cultural appreciation, the partnership creates new opportunities for students and educators to develop practical competencies, deepen intercultural understanding, and foster long-term academic collaboration. The International Cultural Communication Center Malaysia (ICCCM), serving as the Secretariat of the International Transnational Education Association (ITEA), is honoured to support this initiative and looks forward to facilitating more international partnerships that promote educational excellence and global connectivity.
