Young leaders take a group photo at the opening ceremony of 2023 Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) regional workshop on Tuesday. VNS Photo Khánh Linh

HÀ NỘI – The US Government will continue to support educational initiatives in ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste, especially fostering innovation in higher education, US Ambassador to Việt Nam Marc Knapper said.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2023 Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) regional workshop on innovating high education held on Tuesday, the Ambassador said education was a key priority for the US government and for many other governments around the region.

"The US Mission to Việt Nam takes pride in supporting this workshop to foster innovation in higher education by encouraging collaboration among higher education institutions to enhance regional integration," he said.

The workshop, jointly organised by the United States Embassy and the National Economics University, is scheduled to run until May 19.

Out of over 900 applicants from 10 ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste, 75 young leaders have been selected to participate in the workshop. These individuals, who currently work as educators, managers, policy planners, advisors, and young experts in higher education institutions, government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and other relevant organisations, will contribute their expertise and insights in the field of higher education.

The workshop aims to promote international cooperation as a tool for innovation in higher education institutions. The participants will discuss various topics, including resource sharing, best practices in curriculum design and accreditation, experiential learning, and inclusive education.

Throughout the four-day programme, participants will have the opportunity to connect and be inspired by guest speakers, mentors, advisors, and fellow participants through various activities. These activities will include plenary sessions, interactive group work, design thinking training, networking events, field trips, and a sponsored project competition.

The competition will provide participants with the opportunity to initiate projects that foster partnerships between higher education institutions in the region. Three selected project groups will receive seed funding of US$3,000 each.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Prof Phạm Hồng Chương, President of the National Economic University said the university was committed to promoting innovation and creativity in all areas of study, with a focus on cultivating students who are equipped with the skilled knowledge necessary to make a positive impact to the country's economy.

“We believe that education is a powerful tool for positive change. Therefore, we are expected to have a chance to collaborate with the US Embassy in Hà Nội to create new opportunity for learning and collaboration,” he said.

“The future of South Asia is bright, but it will require innovative and forward thinking leaders who are committed to making a positive impact. We are confident that you are all up to this challenge and we are delighted to work with you to build a brighter future for all of us.” – VNS