Students apprentice themselves to agricultural experts and scholars at the China-Africa Agricultural Talent Training Collaboration agreement signing ceremony in Jinhua. [Photo/jinhua.com.cn]

A signing ceremony for the China-Africa Agricultural Talent Training Collaboration agreement took place on May 9 at Jinhua University of Vocational Technology in Jinhua, Zhejiang province.

Jinhua Academy of Agricultural Sciences and the university will collaborate to create an integrated industry-education system to address Africa's agricultural needs through a three-phase model: theory, practice, and industry integration.

The collaboration will focus on three platforms: co-developing Africa-specific talent programs and curricula, conducting joint research for agricultural technology transfer in Africa, and organizing training sessions to establish a "China-Africa agricultural technology exchange platform".

The first mentorship program under this initiative was also introduced. The inaugural group of four students from China, Rwanda, and Equatorial Guinea will participate in a year-long customized program, gaining practical experience at agricultural enterprises in Jinhua and nearby areas to enhance their technical and industrial knowledge.

As a center for China-Africa cooperation, Jinhua has led projects such as the China-Africa (Jinhua) Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Park.

Developed in collaboration with institutions like Mozambique's Eduardo Mondlane University, the park replicates African climates to improve crop varieties and farming techniques, thereby supporting food security in Africa. It also serves as a training base for African farmers, equipping them with skills in crop cultivation and machinery operation.