CNC has become the first post-secondary institution in Canada to form a partnership with the Zhejiang Australian International Career Centre (AICC) through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU).

Through the agreement, over 20 vocational schools in the Zhejiang province of China will prepare high schools students for post-secondary education at CNC.

“We’re honoured to be Zhejiang AICC’s first Canadian partner,” said Barb Old, director of CNC International Education.

“This MOU lays the foundation for the development of a Chinese-Canadian education program that further diversifies CNC’s international student body.”

Photo Credit: College of New Caledonia

The first intake of students is anticipated to arrive at CNC in three years.

Starting in grade 10, Chinese students will work with Zhejiang AICC for three years developing skills and English proficiency in order to prepare for their study abroad.

Zhejiang AICC plans on supporting the international education of the students by helping with Visa applications and relocation to Canada.

CNC International Education Operations Coordinator Tony Mei claims that Zhejiang AICC will open an office in B.C. in order to further support the students.  

“This is a new model for international education,” Mei said. “Chinese students and families are comforted by the ongoing support from familiar faces they receive throughout their studies.”

This Chinese-Canadian education partnership will allow for CNC instructors to travel to China and experience different teaching methods.

“Participating in a hands-on intercultural exchange is a valuable experience for any CNC instructor,” Mei said. “When that knowledge is applied in the classroom at CNC then students benefit as well.”