China targets 10,000 Bangladeshi students for language training initiative
Dhaka: Bangladesh and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in education, technology, and language training through a series of new initiatives aimed at developing a skilled workforce for the future.
The discussion took place at a high-level meeting attended by Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, Minister of Education Dr. ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon, and State Minister Bobby Hajjaj, said a release from the ministry on Tuesday, February 24.
During the meeting, Ambassador Yao Wen announced a target to bring approximately 10,000 Bangladeshi students under Chinese language education programs. The initiative is expected to enhance employment prospects in nearly 1,000 Chinese companies currently operating in Bangladesh and to prepare students for opportunities in at least 17 countries worldwide.
Chinese language education has already begun at leading institutions, including the University of Dhaka, North South University, and BRAC University, in collaboration with the University Grants Commission. Plans are also underway to introduce Chinese language programs at the University of Chittagong within the year.
Emphasizing the importance of technical and polytechnic education, Minister Dr. Milon stated that Bangladesh and China will conduct joint visits to polytechnic institutes to modernize curricula, enhance technological capacity, and implement demand-driven education systems aligned with industry needs. Courses and training frameworks will be restructured to meet evolving market demands.
To expand Chinese language education nationwide, a proposal has been made to establish 300 smart classrooms across 150 institutions, with two classrooms per school. The plan also includes the establishment of nine broadcasting centers and the installation of modern software and hardware in relevant laboratories. A pilot project has already commenced.
The Chinese delegation highlighted similar successful initiatives implemented in countries such as South Africa, Cambodia, and Laos.
The meeting further revealed China’s interest in supporting the construction of a modern dormitory hall for female students at the University of Dhaka. Both sides agreed to formulate a five-year need-based education plan to guide future collaboration.
Bangladesh has also been invited to send a delegation to China for a study tour of technical and technological institutions. In return, Chinese universities and experts will visit Bangladesh to provide recommendations for modernizing technical education institutions.
Discussions were also held regarding scholarships for polytechnic students. The Chinese side assured cooperation upon receiving a formal proposal, which the Bangladesh government is expected to submit within the coming week.
Minister Dr. Milon expressed optimism that this partnership would further strengthen Bangladesh–China educational and technological relations and enable the country’s youth to acquire internationally competitive skills. He added that, in line with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s education manifesto, Bangladesh’s education system is set to embark on a new journey.
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