(Yicai Global) Dec. 8 -- Employees of Alibaba’s online food takeaway platform Ele.me have become the first in China to receive vocational skills certificates that entitle them to a one-time government grant.

Twenty of the Hangzhou-based company’s delivery staff were awarded credentials for ‘deliverymen of online orders’ on Dec. 4, after completing training and tests at Alibaba Local Lifestyle Service University, Guangming Daily reported today.

The certification is equivalent to other professional qualifications and allows holders to receive a one-time payment of CNY1,000 (USD153) from the Hangzhou municipal government, the report said.

With the development of the Internet-based economy, the Chinese government has been focusing on related emerging professions. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security recognized 16 new professions last December, online delivery workers among them.

The rapid development of China’s digital economy has spawned many new occupations, said Yang Ningning, head of the certification center at Alibaba Local Lifestyle Service University. Alibaba, as an industry pioneer, has accumulated a wealth of skills and experience on these new professions, he added.

Under government guidance, the group has an obligation to promote the development of professional standards for new jobs such as ‘deliverymen of online orders’ and ‘internet marketers,’ Yang said.

Alibaba announced in March that it would set up the university, which will open schools for its affiliated businesses such as food delivery, logistics, and new retail. The university plans to enroll 10 million students over the next three years and offer 1,000 courses to help businesses upgrade and develop their digital capabilities.

Editor: Peter Thomas