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Vietnam’s education system has come a long way, witnessing remarkable developments in recent years that have given birth to innovative and dynamic institutions like Fulbright University Vietnam. In a podcast episode of Vietnam Innovators, host Hao Tran engaged in a conversation with Thomas Vallely, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Fulbright University Vietnam. They discussed the institution’s inspiring journey, challenges, and bright future, including the upcoming first commencement ceremony.
As the podcast unfolded, Thomas Vallely shared his deep reflections on Vietnam, a country that never failed to surprise him with its immense potential. He emphasized that Vietnam was full of surprises and should never be underestimated. This sentiment resonated well with the mission of Fulbright University Vietnam, which aimed to create a dynamic and innovative educational hub. Rather than solely imparting academic knowledge, the institution strove to instill a profound interest in the world and a lifelong thirst for learning among its graduates.
Thomas Vallely’s vision for Fulbright University Vietnam was ambitious yet grounded. He envisioned the institution as the apex university in Vietnam, ranking alongside prestigious global institutions like MIT or Berkeley. To achieve this, he emphasized the importance of tailoring educational models to suit Vietnam’s unique cultural context and specific needs instead of blindly replicating foreign systems.
A key aspect that Thomas Vallely stressed was the significance of openness in Vietnam, especially concerning education and technology. He believed that fostering openness would propel Vietnam forward and enable it to thrive in the ever-changing modern world. This included encouraging collaboration and innovation in various fields, such as AI, computer science, and medicine, to effectively address the challenges of the 21st century.
Thomas Vallely also expressed a keen interest in learning more about the Vietnam War and the decisions made during that tumultuous period. He encouraged accessible educational content, such as the Ken Burns film, to provide a deeper understanding of the war’s origins and profound impact on the country.
In conclusion, the podcast showcased a positive outlook on the bilateral relationship between the US and Vietnam, with education playing a pivotal role in strengthening these ties. Thomas Vallely’s dedication to Fulbright University Vietnam and his inspiring vision for its future demonstrated the potential for positive change and innovation in Vietnam’s ever-evolving education landscape. As Vietnam’s education system continued to progress, institutions like Fulbright University Vietnam would undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s bright future and empowering the next generation of learners and leaders.
Watch the full episode here: