Apple CEO Tim Cook (L2) poses for a photo with student developers from Zhejiang University. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

Apple announced a 30-million-yuan ($4.13 million) donation to Zhejiang University on March 26, reinforcing its decade-long partnership with the Mobile Application Innovation Contest and expanding its commitment to student and developer education in China.

The donation will be used to create the Apple Mobile Application Incubation Fund, offering cutting-edge training in app development, product design, marketing, and business operations. Through workshops, internships, and mentorship programs, the initiative aims to connect student developers with industry leaders and investors, equipping them with the skills they need to thrive in the evolving iOS app economy.

Apple CEO Tim Cook emphasized the power of coding, stating, "We believe coding is a powerful tool for creativity, communication, and problem-solving. We're honored to deepen our partnership with Zhejiang University to empower the next generation of developers."

Since its launch in 2016, the Mobile Application Innovation Contest has grown from 161 universities to nearly 1,000 institutions, including those in underdeveloped regions like Gansu and Guizhou. Over 30,000 participants have benefited from the contest, with many becoming app engineers, entrepreneurs, and educators.

During his visit to Zhejiang University's Zijingang Campus, Cook explored past competition projects, including ArtfulSign, an app that teaches sign language, and Alchemist, an AR-powered chemistry experiment tool. Cook described the projects as "unbelievable".

Cook learns about ArtfulSign, an app for sign language learning. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]