Significant opportunities are opening for graduates in China as elite British institutions such as the Universities of Birmingham and Glasgow forge new partnerships in country.
The recent Shanghai Employability Networking Event saw leading figures from Birmingham and Glasgow, JOBShaigui, and alumni of both universities highlight the strategic importance of alumni networks, the unique qualities of graduates, and emerging employment trends for international students.
Drew Linforth, Interim Director of Student Employability at the University of Birmingham emphasised the significance of their partnership with Chinese organisations, which collectively boast over 70,000 alumni in China.
This extensive network is instrumental in advancing the employability strategy of Birmingham graduates. Linforth also underscored the distinctive attributes that Birmingham graduates bring to employers, including intellectual curiosity, future-focused thinking, and social engagement.
Similarly, the University of Glasgow's commitment to its graduates' future careers was evident in their investment in partnerships like those with JOBShaigui and the University of Birmingham.
Sarah Armour, Assistant Director, Student Services (Careers, Employability & Opportunity) at the University of Glasgow highlighted that the collaboration reflects the University’s proactive approach to career development, ensuring graduates are equipped with current insights into labor market trends, emerging job opportunities, and direct access to employer networks. By investing in these initiatives, the University reinforces its role as a catalyst for graduate employability and long-term career growth.
Such partnerships aim to equip graduates with up-to-date knowledge about labor markets, job opportunities, and employer connections.
CEO of JOBShaigui Dr. Yang Peng provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape for international students in China – identifying emerging cities such as Hangzhou, Chengdu, Wuhan, Nanjing, Changsha, and Xi'an as increasingly attractive destinations for job seekers.
The key factors driving this shift include balanced development initiatives, economic growth in new tech industries, and higher quality of life at lower costs compared to traditional megacities. STEM fields, particularly in artificial intelligence, robotics, and aerospace, continue to be in high demand, reflecting China's strategic focus on technological advancement.
Human Resources Director of Huaqin Technologies Viona Fang shared perspectives on opportunities in China's manufacturing and technology sectors, noting the rapid development of these industries and the abundance of job opportunities available. The company supports employee growth through internal transfer programs and international expansion opportunities. Training and mentorship programs are integral to nurturing young professionals, providing one-on-one guidance and connecting recruits with experienced alumni.
Alumni representatives recounted how their university education significantly impacted their career paths in China. The confidence gained from studying abroad, coupled with the academic rigor of top institutions like the Universities of Birmingham and Glasgow, played a crucial role in their professional success. Advice from seasoned alumni includes maintaining a positive mindset, embracing experimentation, and using alumni networks to navigate early career challenges.
These insights underscore the importance of strong alumni networks, the value of interdisciplinary skills and global perspectives in today's competitive job market, and the evolving dynamics of employment opportunities for international graduates in China. Collaborations between universities and industry leaders continue to open doors for graduates, fostering innovation and growth across various sectors.
