This investment of over 430 billion VND was announced during the recent visit of Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC. In an interview with VnExpress, Professor Scott Thompson-Whiteside, President of RMIT University Vietnam, said this step reaffirms the university's commitment to future-focused education and the Vietnam-Australia relationship.

RMIT University Vietnam President Professor Scott Thompson-Whiteside, Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC, and RMIT University Chancellor Peggy O’Neal AO (from left to right). Photo: RMIT

RMIT University Vietnam President Professor Scott Thompson-Whiteside, Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC, and RMIT University Chancellor Peggy O’Neal AO (from left to right). Photo: RMIT

In response to a question about the significance of this investment for Vietnamese education, Thompson-Whiteside explained that with this investment, RMIT will significantly expand its doctoral program and offer more scholarships to help doctoral candidates earn globally recognized degrees in Vietnam. The model aims to strengthen Vietnam's research capacity and promote collaboration with Australian experts, creating a vibrant knowledge-sharing ecosystem. This supports the implementation of Resolution 57 of the Politburo on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation.

This announcement coincides with RMIT's 25th anniversary in Vietnam. Since its inception, the university has grown to a community of over 12,000 students, 1,300 faculty and staff, and over 25,000 alumni. These numbers demonstrate the university's scale, but the real impact lies in the lives changed and communities empowered through education.

The 2025 graduation ceremony at RMIT University Vietnam. Photo: RMIT

The 2025 graduation ceremony at RMIT University Vietnam. Photo: RMIT

Thompson-Whiteside shared his perspective on Vietnam's current development context, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for education. He spent his first months at RMIT Vietnam listening to students, faculty, government partners, and business leaders. He observed that Vietnam is at a pivotal moment in its development. Rapid urbanization, constant technological change, shifting demographics, and the global climate crisis are simultaneously raising urgent questions about how we live, learn, manage, and grow.

In this context, education is no longer simply about preparing students for the job market, but about equipping them to shape the future. This is why RMIT's approach is built on innovation, inclusivity, and community engagement. RMIT is present to serve the community, students, and businesses.

Vietnam's young, dynamic population and strong growth momentum create favorable conditions for rethinking education for the future. Vietnam has made significant strides in internationalizing its higher education system, with over 400 joint training programs and a growing number of international students. Transnational education is now not just a part of Vietnam's higher education landscape but a strategic asset.

Professor Scott Thompson-Whiteside - President of RMIT University Vietnam. Photo: RMIT

Professor Scott Thompson-Whiteside - President of RMIT University Vietnam. Photo: RMIT

When asked about RMIT's role in promoting innovation, sustainable development, and transnational education cooperation in Vietnam, Thompson-Whiteside stated that RMIT Vietnam exemplifies the transformation of Vietnamese education. It offers Australian-accredited programs while meeting local industry needs and aligning with the local cultural context. The university's research collaborations increasingly focus on areas vital to Vietnam's future: sustainable development, digital innovation, healthcare, and social equity.

Looking ahead, RMIT envisions transnational education becoming more deeply integrated into Vietnam's development strategy. This includes expanding access, modernizing the legal framework, and promoting sustainable practices such as training in the circular economy and collaboration in green industries.

RMIT's international-standard learning space. Photo: RMIT

RMIT's international-standard learning space. Photo: RMIT

On RMIT's future direction in Vietnam, Thompson-Whiteside emphasized the university's foundational principle: education can improve lives and drive positive community change. This idea has guided RMIT for the past 25 years and continues to inspire it today. As RMIT celebrates this milestone, it looks to the future with optimism, aspiration, and a deep sense of responsibility.

The 25 million AUD investment is not just a financial commitment; it's a statement of vision. It expresses RMIT's belief in Vietnam's potential, its trust in the Vietnamese people, and its willingness to work together to create an inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future.

Education and research are crucial pillars in the Australia-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. RMIT Vietnam's next chapter will be shaped by deeper collaboration, greater inclusivity, and an unwavering commitment to creating practical value. Together with students, faculty, alumni, partners, and the community, RMIT will continue to build the future, contributing to Vietnam's development and global integration.

Nhat Le