HANOI – A workshop focused on building stronger partnerships between businesses and the Faculty of Development Economics was held at VNU University of Economics and Business (VNU-UEB) on March 21, 2025. This event signals an important advancement in VNU-UEB’s strategy to integrate academic theory with practical experience, particularly for students in the Faculty of Development Economics.

The workshop, organized by the Faculty of Development Economics, brought together Assoc.Prof.Dr. Hoang Khac Lich, Vice Rector of VNU-UEB; Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen An Thinh, Dean of the Faculty of Development Economics; members of the press; parent representatives; a large group of students; and distinguished guests from partner organizations. These included INCOM Group, Dat Viet Group, MISA Joint Stock Company, HCJ Education Investment and Development Joint Stock Company, HiNET Vietnam Technology Joint Stock Company, Shinec Joint Stock Company, and Sen Vang Real Estate Services Joint Stock Company.

Bridging Theory and Practice: A Hands-On Approach

The partnership model aims not only to provide students with specialized knowledge but also to cultivate practical skills. These include applying data technology to economics, understanding business management and the circular economy, developing critical thinking, and mastering problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios.

“Throughout its development, the University of Economics and Business has remained committed to training high-quality human resources ready for international integration," stated Associate Professor Dr. Hoang Khac Lich. “We equip students with a strong foundational knowledge and create opportunities for them to engage with practical applications through business partnerships. Today’s signing event is a clear demonstration of this strategy. With the support of leading businesses, students will have greater opportunities to grow and contribute to the prosperity of the Vietnamese economy.”

Memoranda of Understanding Solidify Partnerships

During the workshop, VNU-UEB formalized its commitment by signing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with several corporations and businesses, including IC Group, DKNEC Group, Dat Viet Group, MISA Joint Stock Company, HCJ Joint Stock Company, and HiNET Vietnam Technology Joint Stock Company.

These collaborations are designed to support training initiatives, internships, and recruitment efforts. They will give students access to real-world experience during their studies and ensure that training programs are aligned with the needs of the job market.

High-Quality, Globally-Oriented Training

VNU-UEB training programs are designed to be highly specialized, internationally-focused, and practical. Students benefit from a modern learning environment and have access to international exchange programs, developing the comprehensive skills needed to tackle global challenges.

For instance, the Development Economics program at VNU-UEB is built on a foundation of high-quality undergraduate programs, with international collaboration from the University of Sussex (United Kingdom). Students in the program complete 30% of their specialized coursework in English and have the opportunity to study abroad at 60 prestigious universities worldwide.

“We aim to create a model where students are not only learners but also active participants in the creative process and development alongside businesses," explained Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen An Thinh. “The university’s responsibility extends beyond teaching; we must also equip our students to thrive in the labor market after graduation.”

Sustainable, Long-Term, and Effective Business-University Collaboration

Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen An Thinh emphasized that, while collaboration between businesses and universities offers numerous opportunities, realizing the full potential of this model requires mutual agreement and commitment from both sides. Universities need to adapt training programs to meet the evolving needs of businesses, while businesses must actively support students with financial assistance and opportunities to learn from industry experts.

Building a sustainable, long-term cooperation framework is also essential. Businesses should participate not only in short-term training initiatives but also contribute to the development of long-term curriculum, providing students with in-depth insights into their chosen fields. This collaboration must be maintained consistently and systematically to ensure lasting impact.
 

Business representatives at the workshop expressed their strong desire to collaborate with VNU-UEB in training and developing high-quality human resources.

Mr. Dinh Van Hien, Chairman of the Board of Directors of DKNEC Group, highlighted that the collaboration between universities and businesses is crucial for adapting to the rapid changes in the global economic landscape. DKNEC is committed to providing students with access to cutting-edge technology and modern management practices through R&D projects and scholarship programs, thus preparing them to excel in the workplace.

Workshop speakers emphasized that the most important objective of the program is not just to solve the challenges of training, internships, and recruitment, but also to create a long-term collaborative ecosystem between businesses and the university.

At the workshop, nearly 200 scholarships were pledged to VNU-UEB students. DKNEC, Dat Viet, and Shinec each committed to sponsoring 30 scholarships, along with an R&D project. HCJ Company offered a total of 30 scholarships, including 10 specifically for students who had won prizes in the national environmental competition. MISA, HiNET Vietnam, and Sen Vang also made significant contributions by providing scholarship packages and research support.

A gallery of images from the workshop