Narxoz College: Exploring International Vocational Education Practices in Shanghai and Hong Kong

From 20 September to 3 October 2026, Maksat Serikolovich Abaydullayev, Director General of Narxoz College, took part in an international educational visit to Shanghai and Hong Kong as a member of the official delegation of the Almaty City Department of Education. The delegation included representatives of the Department of Education and heads of 35 colleges across Almaty. The main objective of the visit was to study international practices in vocational education and establish professional connections with foreign educational institutions.

Shanghai: Exploring Vocational Education Practices

In Shanghai, the delegation visited several vocational education institutions, including Shanghai Minhang Vocational and Technical College, Shanghai Vocational College of Agriculture and Forestry, Shanghai Industrial Technology School, Shanghai Publishing and Printing College, and Shanghai Jiguang Polytechnic College.

On 23 September, a dedicated meeting with representatives of Shanghai Jiguang Polytechnic College took place at its Baoshan Campus. The delegation also visited Shanghai WorldSkills and held meetings with representatives of Shanghai Polytechnic University and the regional office of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

The programme focused on the organisation of the educational process, the structure of academic programmes, the operation of educational laboratories and students’ practical training. Participants explored how colleges and universities combine theoretical instruction with the development of professional skills.

Hong Kong: Educational Programmes and Partnership

On 30 September, the delegation visited The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and its College of Professional and Continuing Education (CPCE). The delegation was officially welcomed as representatives from Almaty, Kazakhstan.

On 2 October, a joint experience-sharing session (Sharing Session) was held with representatives of the Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi). The meeting brought together representatives of the Almaty City Department of Education and colleges from Kazakhstan.

Discussions focused on educational programmes, approaches to professional training and opportunities for international cooperation. Particular attention was given to Hong Kong’s experience in organising vocational education and preparing qualified specialists.

Next Steps: Opportunities for Students and Faculty

Following the visit, working contacts were established with colleagues from Shanghai and Hong Kong to support further cooperation. The next stage will focus on continued exchange of experience between colleges in Almaty and their international counterparts. Further study of educational processes and approaches to professional training is also planned.

Academic cooperation will be another important area of development. Discussions with international partners are expected to cover possible student exchanges, summer schools, as well as training and professional development opportunities for college faculty.

These areas of cooperation may create opportunities for students to learn about educational systems in other countries and gain exposure to different approaches to professional training. For faculty members, this will provide an opportunity to study international teaching practices and explore ways to apply them in their own educational institutions.

Narxoz College will continue developing professional contacts with international educational institutions and partners. International cooperation remains an important part of the College’s efforts to improve the quality of education and prepare competitive professionals.