Welsh universities lead the way in supporting reforms in Vietnamese higher education

Wales’ two successful projects accounted for 25% of all grants awarded by the programme, underlining the sector’s experience, commitment, and dedication to working on international partnerships and collaboration. Thanks to the funding, five of Wales’ eight universities are now involved in projects with partners in Vietnam – one of the fastest growing economies in the world.

The two funded projects – one headed by Global Wales and the other by Cardiff Metropolitan University – will focus on assisting Vietnamese higher education to develop its leadership and governance practice in a manner which is inclusive and focused on gender equality, as well as Transnational Education (TNE) and quality assurance.

The programme balances the interests of all participants as it allows Vietnamese higher education institutions to develop their practice in key priority areas as identified by both the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) and the World Bank.

Gwen Williams, Head of International at Universities Wales, commented:

"The fact that Wales’ universities have performed so well in this funding round is testament to the strong relationships that have been developed between our institutions and governments in recent years. These long-standing and mutually beneficial partnerships have paved the way for this success.

"The projects will allow universities in Wales to work with Vietnamese partners to share and develop leadership and governance practice whilst providing a platform for future collaboration. It demonstrates Wales’ enthusiasm for, and commitment to, long-term partnership with Vietnam."

The Global Wales project will follow a capacity building model with the four Welsh universities (Aberystwyth, Cardiff, Swansea and the University of South Wales) paired to Vietnamese partners over the next two years to share, develop and foster leadership and governance practice and policy.

Global Wales looks forward to sharing more updates and outcomes from the programme as it develops.

For more information: contact Bill Burson