Islamabad: The Pakistan-Ban Mo Academy, a collaborative venture aimed at advancing vocational education, was inaugurated during simultaneous ceremonies held at Gwadar Port, Pakistan, and Jinan, China.
The academy is a joint initiative by the Pakistan-China Vocational and Technical College, the Gwadar Port Authority, and China Overseas Ports Holding (Pakistan) Co., Ltd., with the memorandum of cooperation signed at the launch event. This collaboration seeks to address local skills shortages and enhance workforce development in the region.
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Zhang Zhidong, representing Shandong Business Vocational College, highlighted the academy’s ambitious plans under China’s Vocational Education Going Global 2.0 initiative. He emphasized that Ban Mo Academy is positioned to emerge as a global brand for vocational training excellence.
Ahmed Manzoor, principal of the vocational college in Gwadar, expressed optimism about the academy’s impact. He reported that over 60 graduates have already secured employment in various sectors, including government and private enterprises. Additionally, he announced new degree programs in e-commerce, software technology, and port management to meet the evolving needs of Gwadar’s workforce.
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Yu Bo, Chairman of China Overseas Ports Holding (Pakistan), reiterated his company’s commitment to supporting the academy. He called for closer collaboration between educational institutions and industries to stimulate regional economic growth and foster stronger China-Pakistan ties.
Pasand Khan Buledi, Chairman of the Gwadar Port Authority, underscored the importance of the initiative, citing that 60% of local youth lack access to adequate vocational training. He pledged full support for Ban Mo Academy and lauded China’s continued contributions to Gwadar’s development.
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The launch of the academy signifies a major milestone in China-Pakistan cooperation and promises to equip Gwadar’s youth with the skills needed to contribute to the region’s economic and industrial growth.