Forum on China-Africa Cooperation: The Politics of Human Resources Development

By Li Anshan and Funeka Yazini April

Since the establishment of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), China and Africa have engaged in substantial dialogues about furthering various aspects of human resources development and cooperation. The Chinese Government has kept its promises to provide human resources assistance to African countries within the stipulated time frame. This book assesses specific measures raised at FOCAC meetings, including training and exchange and human resources development. It further examines the impact of these FOCAC initiatives on the human resources capacities of African nations and China. On the African side, options are being provided to develop human resources capital on the continent. The significance of China's aid in this area is determined by whether or not educational initiatives are carried out to impose superpower practices, or are implemented to not only alleviate poverty, but also promote better understanding between the two regions. The book demonstrates how FOCAC educational measures promote sustainable development, particularly in Africa, and also illustrates some of the new ways in which FOCAC is harnessing soft power to strengthen relations between the two regions.

Of Africa

By Wole Soyinka

A member of the unique generation of African writers and intellectuals who came of age in the last days of colonialism, Wole Soyinka has witnessed the promise of independence and lived through postcolonial failure. He possesses a deep understanding of the problems plaguing Africa. In this book, Soyinka offers a wide-ranging inquiry into Africa's cultures, religions, history, imagination, and identities. He seeks to understand how the continent's history is entwined with the histories of others, while exploring Africa's true assets. Soyinka's exploration of Africa relocates the continent in the reader's imagination and maps a course toward an African future of peace and affirmation.

Understanding China Through Comics 

By Liu Jing

Liu Jing was born and raised in Beijing during the era of reform and opening. He is a successful Chinese artist and entrepreneur who regularly works with international clients and has made many friends through his work and travels inside and outside his native country. With this series of English comic books about Chinese history, Liu hopes to put China into its historical context for his audience. The book was written for his newborn son, his friends both near and far, and for anyone who has even a passing interest in understanding what China is and from whence it came.