Guangzhou English Training Center for the Handicapped (GETCH) is a non-profit, 3-year college for students with physical disabilities. Established in 1994, GETCH was built with funds raised from the public. In the year 1993, retired professor from Sun Yat-sen University, School of Foreign Languages, Dr. Lu Shou Rong, recognized a need to establish a school of higher education for students with physical disabilities. Government leaders and Education Bureau of Haizhu District supported this proposal and in 1994, with support from Guangzhou Municipal Education Commission, 20 students with physical disabilities were enrolled at the school’s new campus in Haizhu District. With "Commitment, Love, and Diligence" as its governing principles, GETCH is committed to providing a high level of education and professional training to students with disabilities. Students at GETCH not only gain knowledge and skills but also develop their self-confidence, change their mindset, form new outlooks on life, and participate in different social activities. GETCH facilities include dormitories, modern classrooms, a computer room, language lab, library, multimedia room, gym, recreation room, salon, and canteen. GETCH enrolls students from many parts of China to obtain degrees in English and Business English. The school also provides many kinds of scholarships, financial aid, work-study programs, and internship opportunities to support students completing their study. GETCH works closely with many employers, including Fortune 500 companies, foreign consulates, education institutions, and philanthropic organizations to overcome traditional barriers to employment for the disabled in China. GETCH graduates are recognized by their employers for their outsanding performance. The success of GETCH would not be possible without the support from the Guangzhou Municipal Government, the Government and CPC Haizhu District, Haizhu District Department of Education of, Disabled Persons' Federation, the Volunteers in Asia (VIA), numerous universities in Guangzhou, foreign consulates, employers and friends from the community.
