From 5 to 19 April 2026, the International Training Workshop for Local Chinese Teachers in South and Southeast Asia: Enhancing Capacity through “Chinese + Rural Revitalization” Education was successfully held in Kunming. The workshop was hosted by Yunnan Agricultural University and implemented with the participation of UNESCO International Research and Training Centre for Rural Education (INRULED). A total of 20 participants, including local Chinese language teachers and practitioners in rural and sustainable development, attended the training from seven countries: Viet Nam, Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, and India.

The opening ceremony was held at Yunnan Agricultural University. Professor Li Yonghe, President of Yunnan Agricultural University; Dr. Suleeporn Choopavang, Director of Foreign Affairs of the Chaipattana Foundation; and Dr. Zhao Yuchi, Executive Director of INRULED, attended and delivered remarks.

During the workshop, Dr. Zhao Yuchi delivered a keynote presentation entitled “Education for Sustainable Rural Development: Conceptual Framework”. He introduced INRULED’s core functions and priority areas, elaborated on the conceptual framework of Education for Sustainable Rural Development (ESRD). Drawing on Chinese practices and global development agendas, he analysed the critical role of education in promoting rural transformation, strengthening endogenous development capacity, and advancing the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Dr. Qi Xinjian, Assistant Director of INRULED, delivered a thematic presentation on “Skills for Transformation and Sustainable Rural Development”. From a skills empowerment perspective, he outlined four key competency areas underpinning rural transformation: green and climate-smart agriculture skills, digital agriculture skills, value chain and employment/entrepreneurship skills, and cultural heritage and inclusive development skills. Drawing on examples from China and Southeast Asian countries, he introduced practical approaches such as the Community Learning Centre (CLC) model, technical cooperation and local talent development, as well as green certification and regional branding, offering participants actionable insights.

This training represents an important step in deepening cooperation between INRULED and Yunnan Agricultural University, and a concrete action to operationalise the China–Thailand Sustainable Rural Development Leaders’ Collaborative Network. The network was jointly launched in 2025 by INRULED, the Chaipattana Foundation, Yunnan Agricultural University, Hebei Agricultural University, and other partners during the visit of the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand to Beijing Normal University.

Looking ahead, INRULED will continue to work with partners at national and international levels to promote the integration of education and skills development into rural revitalisation efforts, contributing to the accelerated achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.