By our staff reporter
Chengdu, China
The 2025 Training Workshop for Think-Tank Scholars from the Horn of Africa has successfully concluded, marking a significant milestone in fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. Held at Sichuan Normal University (SCNU) from September 18 to 22, the event attracted high-level officials, academic experts, and scholars from eight nations in the Horn of Africa.
The workshop opened with a ceremony attended by notable figures, including Xu Zhongsheng, Counselor of the Department of African Affairs from China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Professor Zhao Guohua, President of SCNU. Chaired by Professor Lyu Jing, Executive President of the Academy of Global Governance and Area Studies at SCNU, the event set a positive tone for the sessions that followed.
In his welcome address, Professor Zhao emphasized SCNU’s commitment to enhancing educational cooperation with African nations, citing milestones like the establishment of the Confucius Institute in Djibouti. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in research, technology, and cultural exchange.
Over the course of ten days, participants engaged in an intensive program covering critical topics such as “Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy,” “Chinese Traditional Culture,” and “Technological Modernization.” The rigorous curriculum was enriched by practical activities, including field visits in both Chengdu and Xinjiang, where scholars explored local governance models and development achievements.
The workshop culminated with positive feedback from participants, who expressed their appreciation for the insights gained and the collaborative spirit fostered throughout the event. The scholars, representing Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, Djibouti, and Eritrea, are now better equipped to contribute to their countries’ policy-making and development efforts.
This initiative successfully reinforced the ties between China and the Horn of Africa, highlighting a shared vision for peace and prosperity. As the participants return to their home countries, they carry with them valuable knowledge and a renewed commitment to advancing regional cooperation and sustainable development.
The 2025 Training Workshop stands as a testament to the enduring partnership between China and Africa, signaling a future of deeper integration and mutual advancement for the Horn of Africa and beyond.
