The "Going Out" of Chinese Vocational Education and Cooperation Models in Overseas Workforce Development: Case Study of Luban Workshop in Thailand

Abstract

              The objectives of this research were as follows: 1) To study the background and importance of the Luban Workshop in the "Going out" strategy of Chinese vocational education. 2) To investigate the role of the Luban Workshop in the development of Thai-Chinese vocational education cooperation. 3) To examine the mechanism and operational model of the Luban Workshop in promoting manpower development in the Thai rail transport system. The research utilized a qualitative research model, collecting data from documents, academic articles, and conducting in-depth interviews with individuals involved in the center's operations. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis.

            The results of the study revealed the following: 1) The Luban Workshop is a product of China's vocational "Going out" strategy, aiming to promote educational cooperation between China and its partners, as part of the "Belt and Road Initiative." Additionally, it serves as a means to spread China's soft power in technology and innovation globally. 2) The establishment of the world's first Luban Workshop in Thailand plays a significant role in promoting Thai-Chinese vocational education cooperation, elevating Thai vocational education to international standards. 3) The mechanism and operational model of the Luban Workshop are comprehensive, with clear goals in manpower production and development. It functions as a learning center for high-speed train technology and contributes to the development of skilled manpower in the Thai rail transportation system, meeting the nation's workforce needs.