HCMC – In the context of the Covid-19 pandemic disrupting the education sector, Australian and Vietnamese higher education sector experts discussed the rapid shift to online learning and the consequent innovations developed during an Online and Digitally Enhanced Learning Policy Roundtable held late last week.
It was attended by leaders of the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training, the Australian Government, RMIT University, Australia’s Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency, the Victorian Government and universities from across Vietnam.
Held ahead of the new school year in Vietnam, the event was aimed at stimulating the exchange of knowledge and experience around digitally enhanced learning.
Vietnamese Minister of Education and Training Phung Xuan Nha noted that the shifting landscape of global education was a challenge that would require collaboration across the sector.
“The Australian education sector is highly regarded globally, and we are pleased to have this expertise in Vietnam to showcase the future of online and digitally-enhanced learning,” he said.
Academic leaders from RMIT University, Hanoi Open University and British University Vietnam offered in-depth insights into their universities’ own experiences in transitioning to online and blended learning.
RMIT Vietnam Chairman Professor Coloe stressed the importance of providing flexible and accessible study options for students in the new normal.
“In an increasingly digital and connected world, online learning ensures education is made available to many more of Vietnam’s future leaders, wherever they are located,” Professor Coloe stated.
Minister Phung Xuan Nha said he was looking forward to more dialogues to connect higher education with online learning and teaching.
“Over the years, the education sector has benefited greatly from foreign investment, especially higher education. I strongly believe that international universities will continue to play a major role in improving the quality of general and higher education in Vietnam, helping produce new generations of skilled, global citizens,” he said.
Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Robyn Mudie regarded the policy roundtable initiative as “a prime example” of the Australia-Vietnam cooperation in achieving the key priorities of socio-economic development.
“Australia and Vietnam will continue to work together to expand bilateral cooperation in education, skills development and employment. Despite the Covid-19 impact on both Australia and Vietnam, we are not losing sight of the development priorities that will keep our societies and economies moving forward. It is particularly during these taxing times that collaborations and knowledge exchange will help us come up with innovative solutions for mutual benefit,” Ambassador Mudie said.
