University strengthens international partnership in Viet Nam

University of Gloucestershire has continued to grow its global presence, having recently extended its academic partnership with the Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance (UEF) in Viet Nam.

After working successfully in partnership for the past seven years, the University and UEF have strengthened their relationship by signing a 15-year collaborative agreement that will enhance the quality of international student learning experiences and improve graduate employability.

As well as the introduction of new University of Gloucestershire degree programmes at UEF, benefits for students are planned to include collaborative study opportunities, exchange visits, and scholarship opportunities in the UK for UEF’s top performing students.

The new programmes include BA (Hons) Communications and Media and BA (Hons) International Business Management, with more to be developed, including at Master’s level, over the next 12 months.

The partnership has already established programmes over the past seven years in BA (Hons) Business and Marketing Management, BA (Hons) English Language and Linguistics, and BA (Hons) International Hospitality and Tourism Management.

The agreement was signed as part of a visit to UEF by the UK Minister of State for the Indo-Pacific, Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP, for the 2023 Opening Ceremony to welcome and celebrate the latest intake of students on International Bachelor’s programmes.

Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP told the audience: “‘I am delighted to be here at the signing ceremony between University of Gloucestershire and Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance.

“This year is particularly special for the UK-Viet Nam relationship with 2023 making five decades of our diplomatic ties. I’m delighted that this signing ceremony will contribute to the growth and expansion of international education opportunities in Viet Nam, giving the young people who will drive Viet Nam’s bright future access to the skills they need to succeed.”

Start of an incredible journey

The new students were congratulated at the Opening Ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City by the University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Governance and Student Affairs, Dr Matthew Andrews, and UEF leaders, board members, and faculty staff.

Dr Andrews said: “It was a privilege to visit our partner, the University of Economics and Finance (UEF), and to be made so welcome at the opening ceremony for those students starting their degree studies in 2023. This is the start of an incredible journey for them, and it was an honour to play a part in it.

“UEF is a significant and strategic partner for University of Gloucestershire, and our plans to develop the relationship further will enhance student experience and graduate opportunities for our students in the UK and Vietnam. This extended partnership is testament to our commitment to meet that ambition.

“It was inspiring to spend some time with the students studying for University of Gloucestershire awards. Although they’re not on our campuses in Gloucestershire, they’re every bit our students. They showed such determination and passion for their studies. I was truly uplifted and reminded of the great value transnational education can bring.”

Dr Loc Do, UEF Vice-President, said: “At UEF, we have a mission to provide our students with international education that prepares them for their career success in a global workplace.

“In 2016, we started the first UK program with University of Gloucestershire. After only a short time launching these transnational educational programs, we have gained trust from students, parents and the community.

“We look forward to working together with University of Gloucestershire on a long-term strategic partnership for growth and development that takes our collaboration to the next level.”

Main image: left to right, Dr Bùi Xuân Lâm, Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors at UEF, and Dr Matthew Andrews, Pro Vice-Chancellor Governance and Student Affairs at University of Gloucestershire, after signing the new agreement