UN technology training workshop opens in Optics Valley of China

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and China's Ministry of Science and Technology jointly launched a technology training workshop for developing countries in the Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone (also known as Optics Valley of China, or OVC) on July 22.

The workshop on sci-tech park and incubator operation opens in the OVC. [Photo/Hubei Daily]

The two-week workshop, focusing on sci-tech park and incubator operation, welcomed nearly 30 participants from Ghana, Mongolia, Mozambique and Uzbekistan.

This workshop is a vital component of China's science and technology assistance program for developing countries and aims to contribute to the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative. This marks the third collaboration between the United Nations and China's Ministry of Science and Technology in the OVC, attracting over 60 officials and scholars from more than 30 developing countries in the past six years.

"Wuhan is known for its dynamism and innovation, and we are delighted to host this international training workshop here again. It is truly wonderful that Wuhan is willing to share its successful experience with the world. We hope that everyone can make the most of this valuable opportunity to enhance their professional knowledge and strengthen their ability to formulate a coherent and comprehensive policy and institutional framework," said Shamika N. Sirimanne, director of UNCTAD's Technology and Logistics Division.

Shamika N. Sirimanne delivers a speech. [Photo/Hubei Daily]

"The majority of participants this year are policymakers or responsible for the implementation of science and technology in developing countries. We hope that through this training workshop, they can truly put what they learn into action, bringing positive changes to the technological development in their respective countries," said Li Xuan, deputy general manager of the Wuhan Industrial Institute for Optoelectronics, the hosting unit.

Responding to feedback from previous participants, this year's workshop places more emphasis on science and technology innovation policies and management, as well as the planning and construction of incubators. 

Furthermore, the workshop will invite university professors, industry experts, and entrepreneurs from diverse fields as instructors. The curriculum delves into subjects like technological innovation, sci-tech park planning and construction, and enterprise incubation. It combines theoretical lectures with field visits, systematically introducing the OVC's advanced experience and practices. Participants will also have the opportunity to personally experience the innovative atmosphere of incubators, sci-tech parks and leading enterprises.