TWO representatives from Bolton Institute took part in a visit to China organised by the Manchester Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Mick Howarth from the Faculty of Technology and Brian Woodburn from the Faculty of Business attended a series of meetings and seminars.

Two cities visited in the south-west of China, Chengdu and Chongqing, have populations of more than 10 million and have been designated as major development zones by the Chinese government.

Mr Howarth and Mr Woodburn made important contacts with a range of higher education institutions and schools, both public and private.

Discussions centred around staff and student exchanges and promotion of a range of Institute initiatives -- such as the International MBA -- and other courses delivered by distance learning mode.

There were also detailed discussions about Chinese student applications to the Institute. Mr Howarth said: "The potential within China is enormous because the opening up of systems to the west has created opportunities for the young people of China to study abroad."

He added: "Areas such as business and technology are seen as fundamental development areas within China and the Institute has now made important contacts to position itself as a provider of Higher Education to many Chinese students.

"Already we are receiving applications and enquiries.

"Information is being sent out as a priority.

The Manchester Chamber is welcoming a Chinese delegation from Chengdu this month.