Orientation Week 2024: International Educational Collaboration and a Vision for the Future

On September 24, 2024, the International Education Institute (IEI) of Van Lang University hosted the Welcome Ceremony to celebrate the achievements of the past year. Orientation Week 2024, themed “IEI Global Gateway,” featured a series of special activities to welcome the new academic year for students in the International Programs at Van Lang University.

The event was honored to welcome Mr. William Lawrenson, Deputy Consul General and Head of the Trade and Investment Department of the British Consulate General; Dr. Azriey Mazlan, Education Consul at the Education Office of the Malaysian Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City; along with representatives from the IEI's partner organizations. The representatives engaged in discussions regarding development directions, expectations for growth, and the desire for further collaboration to enhance international experiences for students and improve the quality of teaching at the International Education Institute.

Speaking at the Welcome Ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thi My Dieu, President of Van Lang University, shared: “The university aims to nurture well-rounded individuals who excel not only academically but also in contributing value to the community through experiential learning. Van Lang is strongly committed to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge across diverse disciplines. Most importantly, we are dedicated to providing students with an international-standard education right here in Vietnam by partnering with prestigious institutions such as Liverpool John Moores University and Edge Hill University (UK), the University of Newcastle (Australia), and Angelo State University (USA). Through these strategic partnerships, our programs are specifically designed to unlock students' full potential, opening doors to bright and successful futures.”

The 50-year diplomatic relationship between the United Kingdom and Vietnam, along with 15 years of educational collaboration, has played a vital role in strengthening ties between the two countries. The UK remains a top destination for Vietnamese students, with approximately 14,000 currently studying there.

Speaking about the global education environment in Vietnam, Mr. Lawrenson remarked: “International education programs are paving the way for a new future for students. Today, you can access high-quality education without leaving Vietnam. Renowned universities such as Edge Hill and Liverpool John Moores are continuously expanding their programs internationally, collaborating with trusted partners like Van Lang University to offer courses that meet the highest standards, equivalent to those in the UK. You are the key factors and vital contributors to the future of the country, whether in Vietnam or anywhere else in the world.”

Dr. Azriey Mazlan, Education Consul of Malaysia in Ho Chi Minh City, enthusiastically shared: “It is truly an honor to visit Van Lang University. I greatly admire the university’s proud history and the vibrant, dynamic environment it has created for its students. This is a place where young minds can thrive. We fully support Van Lang University's efforts to strengthen ties within the ASEAN community and foster an inclusive, multicultural learning environment for students.”

At the ceremony, the International Education Institute recognized and awarded high-value scholarships to students with outstanding achievements in the previous academic year, as well as the Going Global Scholarships to talented new students. This event not only celebrated students' efforts but also served as motivation and encouragement for all students to continue striving in their academic journeys ahead.

It is hoped that the valuable insights shared by the university and the inspiring stories from senior students will empower and boost the confidence of IEI’s K30. Wishing all of you success as you embark on this new journey, achieving remarkable accomplishments along the way.

News: Trang Phuonng
Photos: Dien Khanh, Khanh Ho