On October 31, 2024, VNU University of Economics and Business (UEB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for strategic cooperation with the Pacific International Hotel Management School (PIHMS) of New Zealand, Hai Phong Tourism College, and Swiss-Belhotel International. This partnership marks a significant milestone, strengthening educational ties between the two countries and creating opportunities for students from all three institutions to study, intern, and advance their careers.

 

UEB leadership, including Assoc.Prof.Dr. Nguyen Truc Le -Secretary of the Party Committee, Chairman of the University, Assoc.Prof.Dr. Le Trung Thanh - Rector, and Assoc.Prof.Dr. Nguyen Anh Thu - Vice Rector , were present at the signing ceremony, along with faculty and department representatives. Joining them were partners Mr. James Cunningham, Deputy Rector and Deputy CEO of PIHMS; Ms. Nga Blanchard, Strategic Partner of PIHMS, CEO of NZiFOCUS, and Executive Board Member of the New Zealand – ASEAN Business Council; Mr. Edward Faul, Vice President of Swiss-Belhotel International; and Mr. Pham Van Long, Rector of Hai Phong Tourism College. Her Excellency Caroline Beresford, New Zealand Ambassador to Vietnam, also attended, along with representatives from the Hai Phong Department of Education and several Hanoi high schools.

Ambassador Caroline Beresford echoed the sentiment, highlighting the partnership's dual benefits: "This collaboration will not only enhance educational opportunities but also contribute to a skilled workforce for the hospitality sector in both our countries."

PIHMS, a premier hospitality management school, will offer Vietnamese students access to world-class training and practical skills, paving the way for successful careers in the global hospitality industry. The partnership also includes internship and mentoring opportunities at Swiss-Belhotel properties throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Mr. Cunningham underscored PIHMS's dedication to providing UEB and other Vietnamese students with top-tier hospitality education and practical skills. He highlighted the valuable internship and mentoring opportunities available through the Swiss-Belhotel network.

Assoc.Prof.Dr. Le Trung Thanh spoke about UEB's proactive approach to building international partnerships with universities and high schools, creating opportunities for high school students to learn from international faculty, engage in diverse extracurricular activities, and connect with students from around the world. These initiatives offer students a taste of advanced education and prepare them for future academic and professional success.

Mr. Pham Van Long Long, Rector of Hai Phong Tourism College, expressed his enthusiasm for broader international collaboration and the exciting prospects this MOU presents for students seeking high-quality hospitality training and career development.

Ms. Nga Blanchard highlighted the comprehensive student support offered through the partnership. From career guidance for high school students to internship placement and post-graduate support, NZiFOCUS and its partners are committed to helping students succeed.

UEB reiterated its commitment to fostering a globally connected and open educational environment, providing Vietnamese students with enriching and internationally relevant learning experiences.