(ECNS) — A total of 88 students from Myanmar are currently studying at Ruili Vocational School in southwest China's Yunnan Province, pursuing skills and dreams through cross-border education.
Ruili, situated on the China-Myanmar border, serves as a key gateway for trade and cultural exchange between the two countries. In recent years, the city has become an increasingly popular destination for Myanmar nationals seeking educational and employment opportunities.
In a classroom dedicated to e-commerce, 21-year-old Luo Bencan (pinyin) from Myanmar takes notes attentively. Speaking fluent Chinese, he describes the school as "the place where my dreams took off."
As one of the first participants in a China-Myanmar educational exchange program, Luo says he has gained not only professional training but also a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.
During his time in China, Luo has participated in various cultural activities—from visiting a wartime memorial during Qingming Festival to celebrating the Water-Splashing Festival alongside Chinese and Myanmar classmates.
Su Xueni (pinyin), a student from Yangon, studies fashion design in Ruili with hopes of becoming a clothing designer. In addition to her coursework, she gains practical experience at a nearby garment industry park. She plans to combine Myanmar's traditional weaving techniques with modern Chinese manufacturing methods to create culturally inspired, high-quality apparel.
To support international students, Ruili Vocational School has established long-term cooperation with Myanmar institutions. The partnership includes curriculum development, cultural integration, and internship opportunities.
With 36 new Myanmar students enrolled this year, the cross-border education initiative continues to deepen, strengthening people-to-people ties and fostering mutual understanding between China and Myanmar.
(By Zhao Li)