In Qingzhen Vocational Education City in Guizhou province, a growing number of students from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand are learning skills that could pave the way for career opportunities.

As one of China's largest vocational education clusters, the region has become a beacon for foreign youths seeking quality training.

"Our first group of Cambodian students was outstanding. Most are now employed by Chinese-funded companies, and some have already been promoted to management roles," said Yu Dandan, who has taught international students at the Guizhou Vocational and Technical College of Water Resources and Hydropower since 2018.

Across the province, more colleges, including Guizhou Communications Polytechnic, are establishing partnerships with Southeast Asian institutions to share expertise and expand their training programs.