The Shanghai Institute of Technology and Souphanouvong University in Laos signed an inter-university cooperation memorandum on Sept 25, establishing the Sino-Laos Engineering College.

President Vira Anolac of Souphanouvong University highlighted that over 30 students have been sent to study in Shanghai, becoming Laos' first senior railway technical experts and the pioneers of its railway engineering sector. The university plans to leverage the Sino-Laos Engineering College to enhance education, cooperation, and friendly exchanges.

The Shanghai Institute of Technology will dispatch teachers to Laos for further scientific research collaboration, aiming to cultivate local talents proficient in railway technology and familiar with the local language and culture. This effort aspires to make the Sino-Laos Engineering College a key benchmark for international education cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.

In 2017, the two universities signed a memorandum of understanding on railway engineering education. In 2018, Souphanouvong University sent its first group of 10 undergraduates and three postgraduates to China, marking the start of international talent training for the China-Laos Railway. Today, Lao students trained in Shanghai are actively contributing to various sectors of the railway's operation.

Source: Shanghai Observer