Online university education serves as a vital tool for working professionals to adapt and thrive in the AI era, offering structured learning, skill enhancement, and expanded career paths. This central message resonated at the 2026-2027 academic year opening ceremony of the Online Training Institute, Hoa Sen University, held on 17/10 in Ho Chi Minh City. Unlike traditional students who enter university immediately after high school, most participants in this online program are already part of the workforce. Many hold specialized or management positions, or carry significant family responsibilities. Their decision to pursue further education demands careful consideration of time, work, and personal development goals.

Associate Professor Doctor Nguyen Tuan Duc, Vice President of Hoa Sen University. *Photo: Hoa Sen University*

Addressing the new cohort, Associate Professor Doctor Nguyen Tuan Duc, Vice President of Hoa Sen University, encouraged students to pursue self-transformation rather than merely completing their studies. He urged learners to proactively engage, approach each task seriously, and persistently work towards their objectives. The university commits to supporting students through its robust technology platform, comprehensive learning resources, and opportunities for practical skill development.

Speakers at the workshop. *Photo: Hoa Sen University*

For working professionals, the university learning process helps systematize accumulated experience, supplement specialized knowledge, and access new working methods. The online format offers flexibility, allowing students to arrange study schedules around their personal lives. Beyond academic content, the university prioritizes connecting with industry experts and businesses, integrating real-world labor market issues directly into the curriculum.

Recognizing the evolving human resources landscape, the event included a workshop on "talent positioning and career acceleration with AI". Nguyen Tan Phong, Vice President of the Vietnam E-commerce Association (VECOM), provided insights into changing recruitment demands and current human resource development trends. This market data equips learners to assess their existing capabilities and identify suitable directions for skill enhancement.

Lecturers, new students, and guests at the 2026-2027 academic year opening ceremony. *Photo: Hoa Sen University*

From a business perspective, An Dang, Strategic Planning Director at Omega Media, outlined new requirements for employees. He emphasized the importance of soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability. As businesses increasingly adopt AI, human value extends beyond task completion to encompass critical thinking, information evaluation, and tangible contributions to the organization.

Pham Cong Thuan, a lecturer from Starttrain, demonstrated practical applications of AI for information processing and workflow optimization. He advised that employees still require strong specialized knowledge, the ability to frame problems, and critical thinking to verify AI-generated outcomes. "AI not only presents challenges but also opens opportunities to enhance productivity, allowing individuals more time for creative and decision-making tasks," Mr. Thuan noted.

A subsequent discussion, led by a representative from the university's Admissions and Communications Center, further connected these insights, preparing learners for career development in a rapidly changing technological environment. During the event, corporate partners like Starttrain and Ielts Mentor awarded scholarships to new students, fostering a spirit of lifelong learning and improving foreign language skills. These companies highlighted that while a university degree marks a significant achievement for working professionals, the true value of returning to school lies in practical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and expanded career opportunities.

Thanh Thu