In Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe, Lu Ban's Workshop, a joint vocational training program between China and Tajikistan, is helping to train a new generation of skilled workers using advanced Chinese technologies.
Named in honor of the ancient Chinese craftsman, engineer, and inventor Lu Ban, the workshop was inaugurated in 2022 and is housed at Tajik Technical University named after M.S. Osimi in the Tajik capital.
The workshop boasts cutting-edge technology for future surveyors and geodesists, training them on state-of-the-art computers and devices.
"Modern challenges require modern solutions. Today, it's impossible to construct quality buildings without proper and thorough analysis. Students must acquire practical skills during their education. Fortunately, the workshop is equipped with all modern instruments today. We teach students how to work with them," said Umarjon Toshayev, head of the Department of Engineering Geodesy at Tajik Technical University.
China, renowned for its engineering prowess, generously shares expertise. Recently, the workshop received a tachometer simulator, enhancing practical learning opportunities.
"I am currently working with GPS software. With its help, we can conduct observational work without leaving our workstation. We also learn to operate Chinese theodolites. I can say they are very accurate, and data analysis now takes less than a day, whereas normally it would take three days," said Farhod Rahmatov, a workshop student.
While the workshop teaches various engineering disciplines, a key focus is sustainable energy technologies.
"During our training here, for example, we have the opportunity to use the latest mechanisms. They observe how green energy is produced and how it can be utilized," said Umedjon Saidov, another student.
As China and Tajikistan are enhancing bilateral relations within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), China is advocating for broad cooperation across sectors, including humanitarian efforts.
It offers favorable conditions for academic pursuits, grants, and advanced training courses, exemplified by the global presence of "Lu Ban Workshops."
"Within the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, China supports ideas for developing cooperation between our countries in various sectors. Of course, attention is also given to the humanitarian sphere. Today, China offers the best conditions for studying and obtaining academic degrees in its universities, including various types of grants and free advanced training courses. For example, currently, 'Lu Ban Workshops' are open in more than 20 countries worldwide. This shows that China is ready to share its rich experience," highlighted Rauf Jurakhonzoda, vice-rector for International Relations, Tajik Technical University:
Since its inception, the workshop has trained over 1,000 specialists, contributing to Tajikistan's industrial sectors and joint enterprises with China.
"I didn't have a profession before. I used to work as a laborer. Afterwards, Chinese engineers and technologists conducted courses where we were taught how to operate machines. In three months, I mastered the technology and now work as a machine operator," said Shokhrukhjon Abdurakhimov, a cement plant worker.
Accelerated industrialization remains a key goal for Tajikistan, supported by new industrial facilities and a rising demand for skilled workers. Collaborative educational programs with China are pivotal in preparing future specialists for Tajikistan's evolving industrial landscape.
Lu Ban Workshop in Dushanbe empowers Tajik-Chinese vocational training
