ACADEMIC EXCHANGE PROGRAM BETWEEN HO CHI MINH CITY OPEN UNIVERSITY AND UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA (UITM)

On June 9, 2025, at the Traditional Room of the 97 Vo Van Tan campus, the Faculty of Accounting and Auditing at Ho Chi Minh City Open University hosted a meeting and exchange session with lecturers and students from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia. This exchange program served not only as a platform for academic learning but also as an opportunity for students to connect and develop into global citizens. Every activity—ranging from cultural sharing to in-depth thematic discussions—offered students from both nations a chance to learn from one another and gain a better understanding of themselves in an ever-changing world.

Participants taking a commemorative photo

Attendees included Dr. Ho Huu Thuy – Dean of the Faculty of Accounting and Auditing, along with lecturers, staff, and students from Ho Chi Minh City Open University, and a delegation of lecturers and students from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM).

Dr. Ho Huu Thuy – Dean of the Faculty of Accounting and Auditing – introduces Ho Chi Minh City Open University and the Faculty of Accounting and Auditing

The program commenced with lively academic and cultural exchanges facilitated by lecturers from both Ho Chi Minh City Open University and Universiti Teknologi MARA. Students from both institutions shared insights into the unique cultural identities of Vietnam and Malaysia. A wide range of topics—including geography, customs, history, and cuisine, as well as the respective education systems and learning environments at both universities—were presented in a vibrant and engaging manner.

Notably, the program featured fascinating dialogues comparing how young people in both countries view university education and the role of family, as well as discussing cultural influences on accounting and auditing mindsets. Authentic presentations by students from MARA University of Technology and Ho Chi Minh City Open University highlighted cultural exchange within an atmosphere of openness and mutual respect for differences. Through this experience, students not only gained interdisciplinary knowledge but also cultivated a global mindset, multicultural respect, and adaptability—essential competencies in today’s world.

Ms. Tran Do Thuy Linh, a lecturer from the Faculty of Accounting and Auditing at Ho Chi Minh City Open University, shared insights into Vietnamese culture.

Representatives from MARA University of Technology also shared information about Malaysian culture and various academic programs offered at their university.

Students from both universities engaged in discussions and group work during the program.

A highlight of the program was the workshop titled “Self-Leadership in the BANI Era,” led by speaker Duong Tran Minh Doan, a psychology expert. In the BANI era (characterized by Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, and Incomprehensible conditions), developing self-leadership skills is crucial. The speaker shared methods to help students understand their emotions and manage their thoughts, enabling them to face new challenges with “a cool head and a warm heart.” These lessons will undoubtedly empower students to remain resilient amidst global volatility while fostering a spirit of boldness and initiative. Speaker Duong Minh Doan sharing insights at the workshop


Students interacting enthusiastically with the speakerUniversiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), established in 1996, is one of Malaysia’s leading public universities, ranked 587th in the QS World University Rankings 2025. UiTM currently comprises 31 faculties and multidisciplinary centers and maintains partnerships with over 500 international institutions worldwide, including Ho Chi Minh City Open University. This collaboration not only facilitates academic exchange but also creates opportunities for professional development within a globalized environment.

With “Integration” established as one of its four core values, Ho Chi Minh City Open University remains committed to expanding international exchange programs. These initiatives deliver immediate academic value and contribute to building a comprehensive, humanistic, and globally connected educational ecosystem.

Students from Universiti Teknologi MARA touring the Ho Chi Minh City Open University campus

Representatives from both universities posing for a commemorative photo