Representatives of the University of Economics HCM City, Western Sydney University and Austrade launch the ASEAN HUB on Wednesday (July 20). Photo courtesy of UEH

HCM CITY — The University of Economics HCM City, Western Sydney University and the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) on Wednesday announced an initiative to forge business education, science and innovation partnerships between Australia and ASEAN.

The ASEAN Hub initiative encompasses five key strategic objectives: expansion of programme deliveries, research and higher degree research student training, student engagement and services, industry partnerships, and responsibility to the community.

“Through the establishment of the ASEAN Hub with Western Sydney University, we aim to increase our presence in the region to attract more international students to Việt Nam,” Prof Sử Đình Thành, president of the University of Economics HCM City, said. 

“Moreover, the ASEAN Hub [will help] improve research collaborations as well as industry engagement beyond the borders of Việt Nam," he said.

Rebecca Ball, senior trade and investment commissioner at Austrade Vietnam, said the strategy showcased important features of the relationship between Australia, Việt Nam and ASEAN.

"Quality education is vital to the future of our next generation and to continued economic growth. The ASEAN Hub Strategy is indeed an exciting opportunity for Vietnamese and ASEAN talents to advance their study with world class education institutions around the world and in Australia.

"On their completion of study in Australia, they will be equipped with the ability to lead and advance science and technology development in their countries.

“Our strong education ties with Việt Nam and ASEAN are demonstrated at both government and institutional levels."

In 2020 nearly 100,000 students from Southeast Asia enrolled to study in Australia, or nearly a fifth of Australia’s international students that year, she said.

There are currently more than 70,000 alumni of Australian schools in Việt Nam. —VNS