The China-EU Manufacturing Cooperation Matchmaking Conference, a key event of the 2026 World Manufacturing Convention, was held in Hefei on September 20. Carlos Magariños, Chairman of the Global Alliance of SMEs and former director general of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, addressed the event. Wu Pingchuan, Chair of the Hefei University(HFU) Council, delivered a keynote address on behalf of the University.
In his address, Wu explored, how closer ties between education and industry can help develop the workforce needed for China-EU manufacturing cooperation. He reviewed HFU’s development, international partnerships and practice-oriented education, outlining its contribution to the local advanced manufacturing sector and its plans for future cooperation.
Drawing on Hefei’s strong manufacturing base, HFU has expanded educational exchanges with European partners and strengthened collaboration with industry. Through platforms including Volkswagen College, Continental College and International College, it prepares undergraduates with both professional expertise and international outlook to support industrial upgrading and China-EU cooperation.
Wu said HFU’s longstanding partnerships with Germany helped it build an established system of practice-oriented education. He expressed interest in working more closely with Chinese and international companies attending the Conference to train skilled undergraduates for manufacturing cooperation and regional industrial development.
At the event, HFU signed a cooperation agreement with Haixuan Culture Group. The two partners also unveiled the Hefei Research Center for Chinese-Style Management, which adds a new platform for the University’s collaborative innovation with local government and industry.
