Luban Workshop boosts AI industry talent in Kazakhstan

Tianjin Vocational Institute and L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University will construct China's second Luban Workshop in Kazakhstan.

Wu Zongbao, president of Tianjin Vocational Institute, said: "The workshop is under construction, and we plan to collaborate with the local university in the field of information technology applications to provide sufficient talent support for the development of the artificial intelligence industry in Kazakhstan."

He explained: "Kazakhstan is a leading digital and financial technology center in Central Asia, and information technology is a crucial cornerstone of the digitalization process."

The Luban Workshop is a globally renowned brand in vocational education initiated by Tianjin, which has led in promotion and implementation. An increasing number of Luban Workshops have been set up in countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

In December 2023, a Luban Workshop jointly constructed by Tianjin Vocational Institute and East Kazakhstan Technical University was put into use in Kazakhstan.

The initial phase offers training in transportation equipment and technology, with four practical training areas for vehicle maintenance, fuel vehicle systems, new energy vehicles and smart connected vehicles.

In response to Kazakhstan's talent needs, Tianjin Vocational Institute has tailored five course standards for the nation's Luban Workshop, including pure electric vehicle operation theory, electric vehicle equipment, automotive engines, advanced driver assistance systems and unmanned vehicle assembly technology.

The first Luban Workshop in Kazakhstan currently has over 400 students who, guided by advanced vocational education concepts from China, will develop into high-level skilled talents needed locally.

"We will continue to construct the second Luban Workshop in Astana, Kazakhstan, at a high level and strive to run the first Luban Workshop in East Kazakhstan region well, creating more opportunities for the career development of local youth," Wu said.