On September 13, 2012, David Alward, the premier of New Brunswick, Canada, and his delegation visited the Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB) to mark the strengthening education bonds between New Brunswick and China. The premier not only toured the campus, but personally spoke with students and even participated in CISB’s annual school-wide photo.
Premier Alward’s visit coincided with the signing of a contract between the New Brunswick provincial government and AKD International, a Canadian education group founded by Dr. Francis Pang, who was also in attendance at the CISB event. The agreement provides New Brunswick curriculum to AKD schools in China, of which CISB is one.
In an address to CISB students and staff, Premier Alward noted that this agreement would not only strengthen educational ties to China, but also provide an estimated CAD 40 million in revenue to the province of New Brunswick. The agreement means that several schools in China will utilize the New Brunswick curriculum as well as provide training to teachers and ensure educational standards are met. Premier Alward also gave special acknowledgement to Dr. Pang, who in June received an award from the United Nations in recognition of his outstanding contribution to international education.
Photos courtesy of CISB
