International students at the inaugural International Master's Program in Aviation Transport Management at the Civil Aviation University of China join a Chinese cultural symbol program on Dec 15, 2023. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
The country's pioneering master's degree program designed to educate students from Belt and Road countries in aviation transport management is poised to yield substantial dividends in terms of research opportunities and career prospects.
Acknowledging the program's potential to advance their professional trajectories in China and their respective home nations, students are focusing their graduation theses on reforms and advancements within their home countries' aviation industries.
The inaugural International Master's Program in Aviation Transport Management at the Civil Aviation University of China, which commenced in September 2023, is now in its second year.
Students are researching their thesis topics and participating in internships at international organizations, aviation firms, logistics companies and entities involved in global trade.
The university anticipates that 13 students will graduate from the program next year.
Chen Yuxiu, a professor at the Transportation Science and Management School of CAUC and head of the program, emphasized: "The program aims to enhance the quality of personnel training for Belt and Road countries, foster the development of the 'Silk Road in the Sky', and empower international students to contribute to their home countries' aviation transportation sectors."
Students enrolled in the inaugural International Master's Program in Aviation Transport Management at the Civil Aviation University of China take a group photo on Sept 4, 2023. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
According to Chen, the students' studies encompass a range of critical areas, including operation, safety and risk management, economics and finance, as well as environmental protection.
She expressed her hope that the students will serve as a bridge between China and the economies involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.
Vu Dang Khoa, a student from Vietnam currently working on his thesis and internship at a trade company, highlighted how the program has broadened his horizons and opened up promising career prospects.
"I'm researching China's rapid economic recovery post-COVID-19 and hope to work in China post-graduation," he said, noting that he has recognized the abundant opportunities available for students from Belt and Road countries.
Brenya Thomas Kwame from Ghana and Doan Ngoc Thanh Thu from Vietnam both underscored the airport and aviation challenges in their respective countries and expressed a desire for increased international collaboration.
Kwame said: "My research focuses on addressing sectoral challenges in Ghana, particularly in meeting the International Civil Aviation Organization's standards. I'm eager to leverage the knowledge gained in China to benefit Ghana."
Kwame has participated in international seminars on airport management in Beijing and Tianjin.
Meanwhile, Doan is researching the management of Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, with the aim of applying his experience with China's efficient process management and control practices to improve her home country's aviation sector.
Outside of her academic pursuits, Doan participates in campus activities, leading a dancing group that secured an award among Tianjin's universities.
Vu participated in a short video competition showcasing international students' lives in China and clinched a prize earlier this year.
In May 2022, the Civil Aviation Administration of China unveiled a plan to enhance quality development during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), with a specific emphasis on cultural exchange as a key area of focus.
Vu Dang Khoa, a student from Vietnam, test drives an airplane. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Brenya Thomas Kwame from Ghana (second from right) take part in a Belt and Road drone competition in Chongqing on June 25, 2024. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
An international student and two Chinese students attend a conference on the sustainable development of the aerotropolis economy in Beijing on Sept 25. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Doan Ngoc Thanh Thu (center), from Vietnam, led a campus dancing group to win an award among local universities in Tianjin. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
