He is passionate about the establishment of the alliance, which is the brainchild of his institution together with the China Education Association for International Exchange and the Ningbo education bureau. He believes it offers an ideal platform to increase the effectiveness of the alliance in more than 65 countries while increasing students' awareness and engagement with global issues. It also enhances the quality of teaching and the learning of applied sciences, engineering and technology.

"There is always something new to learn that will add to our pool of knowledge. And there is always something to contribute to other institutions. The ultimate goal is to build a bridge between research, policy and practice," says the principal.

Zhang, who is also the executive vice-chairman of the National Joint Conference for Vocational and Technical College Presidents in China, says the alliance will investigate and develop solutions for how countries can adapt to international influence in meeting their own specific needs and national interests.

"The tangible impact of the Belt and Road Initiative will be realized when people find commonalities and implement practical solutions in their environments. It will definitely solidify people-to-people exchanges," he says.

"When there is a loop of institutions working together, it will fuel research, innovation and experiences that will help develop policies to shape the vocational education sector in countries involved," Zhang says, adding that this would be the basis of the partnership.