Academic exchange program between Ho Chi Minh City Open University and MARA University of Technology (UiTM)

Attendees pose for a commemorative photo.

Those attending the program included: Dr. Ho Huu Thuy – Head of the Accounting and Auditing Department, along with lecturers, staff, and students from Ho Chi Minh City Open University, and a delegation of lecturers and students from MARA University of Technology (UiTM).

Dr. Ho Huu Thuy – Head of the Accounting and Auditing Department – ​​gave a brief introduction to Ho Chi Minh City Open University and the Accounting and Auditing Department.

The program began with a lively academic exchange and cultural interaction, moderated by lecturers from Ho Chi Minh City Open University and MARA University of Technology. Students from both universities shared insights into the distinctive cultural identities of Vietnam and Malaysia. Diverse topics, ranging from geography, customs, history, and cuisine to the education systems and learning environments at Ho Chi Minh City Open University and MARA University of Technology, were presented in a vibrant manner.

In particular, the program included interesting dialogues comparing how young people from both countries view university education, the role of family, and the differences in accounting and auditing thinking linked to culture. The authentic presentations from students of MARA University of Technology and Ho Chi Minh City Open University highlighted cultural exchange in an open and respectful atmosphere. As a result, students not only acquired interdisciplinary knowledge but also developed an inclusive mindset, respect for multiculturalism, and global adaptability – essential skills in today’s era.

Representatives from MARA University of Technology also shared information about Malaysian culture and some of the academic programs offered at MARA University of Technology.

Students from both schools discussed and worked in groups during the program.

The highlight of the program was a workshop on the topic “Self-Leadership in the BANI Era,” led by speaker Duong Tran Minh Doan – a psychology expert. In the BANI era (Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, Incomprehensible), developing self-leadership skills is extremely important. Accordingly, the speaker shared methods to help students understand their emotions, thereby managing and adjusting their thinking to be ready to face new challenges with a “cool head and a warm heart.” These lessons will certainly help students become stronger in the face of the world’s changes, while encouraging a spirit of daring to think and act.

Students happily interact with the speaker.

MARA University of Technology (UiTM), established in 1996, is one of the leading public universities in Malaysia, ranked 587th on the QS World University Ranking 2025. UiTM currently has 31 faculties and multidisciplinary training centers, with over 500 international partners worldwide, including Ho Chi Minh City Open University. This collaboration not only facilitates academic exchange but also opens up opportunities for professional development in a globalized environment.

With “Integration” as one of its four core values, Ho Chi Minh City Open University will continue to expand its international exchange programs. This brings immediate academic value and contributes to building a comprehensive, humane, and globally connected educational ecosystem.