Changzhou Technician College. [Photo/Changzhou Technician College]

Eleven students in Changzhou have obtained Chinese vocational skill certificates through the recognition of German professional qualifications, highlighting Jiangsu's efforts to promote international mutual recognition of vocational credentials.

Wang Shaoxu, a student from Changzhou Technician College, received China's Automobile Maintenance Technician certificate without taking the examination after his German HWK Automotive Mechatronics Technician certificate was recognized under Jiangsu's overseas vocational skills comparison and recognition program.

"Previously, earning a Chinese technician certificate involved a lengthy process and multiple assessments. Being able to convert my German qualification directly has made it much easier," Wang said.

According to Changzhou's human resources and social security authorities, applicants holding recognized overseas vocational certificates can submit their credentials through authorized educational institutions. After their skills are assessed against corresponding Chinese occupational standards and approved by the human resources department, they are issued an equivalent domestic vocational skill certificate.

To expand mutual recognition between Chinese and German vocational standards, Changzhou's human resources authorities assembled a team of university professors and senior industry technicians to work with the Jiangsu Provincial Vocational Skill Appraisal Center on two rounds of professional evaluations. Their efforts led to the inclusion of five additional German qualifications in the recognition framework: Automotive Mechatronics Technician, Trainer, Precision Mechanic, Business Manager and Industrial Robotics Technician.

The expanded recognition program is expected to streamline talent development, reduce barriers for internationally trained skilled workers and further strengthen vocational education cooperation between China and Germany.