Government officials from Gansu, China to train at Canterbury University

16 April 2008

From Diane Keenan who is with the Mayor's delegation in China

The University of Canterbury will host a training programme for high ranking Government officials from Gansu province, China, in September.

Gansu Government officials announced the new pilot training programme during a visit to Christchurch’s sister province, Gansu this week by Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker and a delegation including representatives of the University of Canterbury.

Professor Scott Davidson, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Law at Canterbury University, said he expected 20 Gansu officials would attend the three week course to learn more about public sector management. The course was designed so that much of the programme would involve practical experience in best practice in city management..

“The course is based loosely on the model we have had for the past five years with our other sister city in China, Wuhan, but will be tailored to meet the Gansu Government’s needs. If this course is successful, we will look at providing extended programmes,” he said.

Mr Parker said the new training programme developed over the past year highlighted the long history of cooperation and exchange between Christchurch and Gansu. Gansu province, located on the famous Silk Road which linked the East with the West, has enjoyed a sister city relationship with Christchurch for more than 20 years.

“Some of Gansu’s brightest and best are coming to Christchurch to learn more about the ways to do business. However, they will also be looked on as teachers for in return we hope to learn more about the Gansu province,” he said.

“The dream Rewi Alley had when he brought education to the young people of China so many years ago, is being realised by future generations. This new relationship with the University of Canterbury will further strengthen the ties we have with Gansu.”

Mr Lu Wucheng, vice governor of Gansu province, said the programme was a practical project of cooperation for his Government with Christchurch.

“I am sure this training project will strengthen the friendship between the two countries,” Mr Lu said.

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