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Zambian Officials Engage in Exchange with Students on Development

On July 19, Dr. Gabriel Pollen, the Executive Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development of Zambia, visited Zijingang Campus of Zhejiang University. His visit included engaging in discussions with six international Zambian students as part of a seminar for members of the Global Development Promotion Center in Hangzhou.

During the exchange, Dr. Pollen shared insights gained from the seminar, particularly focusing on Chinese modernization and advancements in the digital economy. He urged the students to value their educational experience at Zhejiang University and to leverage the knowledge and technology acquired during their studies for the betterment of Zambia.

The Zambian students participating in the symposium hailed from various fields such as architecture, civil engineering, clinical medicine, and agricultural economic management. They took turns sharing their academic experiences in China, expressing gratitude towards the education received and discussing how they could apply this knowledge to the development of their home country.

In their discussions, the students addressed how the lessons from China's rapid development can align with Zambia's industrial growth needs. They aimed to explore viable pathways to integrate these experiences into efforts that contribute to sustainable development within Zambia.

Dr. Pollen's decision to specifically meet with the students during his trip underscores the significance that both China and Zambia place on international educational cooperation. This meeting affirmed the recognition of Zhejiang University's role in fostering international talent development.

The Zambian students were greatly moved by this interaction, acknowledging the high-level platform provided for their communication. They expressed a commitment to maximizing their studies at Zhejiang University. Their aim is to transform the knowledge acquired into actionable insights that would serve not only their nation's progress but also contribute to global development.

One student articulated appreciation for Dr. Pollen's remarks regarding the sacrifices necessary to build Zambia's future, comparing it to China's economic blueprint. The students recognized the importance of being the generation willing to lay down the groundwork for national advancement, fueled by skills gained in a technologically-advanced environment such as China.

Additionally, the Permanent Secretary highlighted China's openness to sharing its technology with developing nations. This willingness represents an unparalleled opportunity for countries like Zambia to utilize this technology in critical sectors, which include infrastructure, agriculture, and energy, thereby expediting national development.