Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Anh Tuan believes that this relationship will contribute to the creation of an effective collaborative environment that will benefit both universities and students.

It can be said that universities would collaborate to provide high-quality human resources to suit businesses’ demands. But, why is this cooperation still a challenge, sir?

The partnership between universities and businesses helps all three parties involved: universities, businesses, and students. However, this collaborative approach is frequently difficult. One of the key causes is that the parties' aims and interests differ. Universities frequently emphasize developing theoretical knowledge and soft skills in students, but employers need those who can work quickly and satisfy the job's requirements. This disparity might lead to disagreements on the goals of cooperation.

Financial capacity and resources are also crucial factors in university-business collaboration. Some universities have faced financial and resource limit s, making it difficult to invest in cooperation initiatives or develop long-term connections. On the contrary, some businesses may be hesitant to engage in partnerships if they don't perceive immediate returns. The difference in technology and approach is also a barrier. Universities and businesses may utilize different technologies and working techniques, making it challenging to synchronize and integrate training courses.

Finally, the lack of long-term commitment is an issue that both parties must address. A long-term partnership requires both parties' commitment and support. To satisfy labor market demands, transparent cooperation structures, as well as training and skill development initiatives, are required. Long-term partnerships built on mutual trust and interest will help increase the efficacy of university-business cooperation.

In your opinion, what solutions do universities need to address these challenges?

Universities and businesses must execute a number of crucial and synchronized steps to foster their cooperation. First of all, they must establish a foundation for a long-term partnership based on mutual trust and commitment. They also must reach explicit agreements on each other's aims and interests, as well as develop realistic action plans to secure effective cooperation.

Second, universities must create adaptable training courses that are suited to the specific demands of businesses. At the Foreign Trade University, some company representatives accompanied us in delivering counterarguments for training programs until they were implemented, participating in co-teaching, and providing feedback to other enterprises. At the same time, businesses should be actively involved in the development and enhancement of training programs, including internships, tutoring, and teaching opportunities, to help students get the skills they need for practical jobs.

Third, we must invest in infrastructure and technology to facilitate university-business cooperation. Universities and businesses can establish collaborative laboratories, research and development centers where students and employees can work and conduct research. The use of modern technologies in training will increase the quality of learning and work while also fostering a more effective cooperative atmosphere.

Fourth, it is vital to provide frequent seminars, conferences, and interactive events to allow universities and students to connect, exchange ideas, and learn from one another. These activities not only deepen cooperation but also enable the exchange of fresh experiences, ideas, and prospects for collaboration.

Finally, support for university-business cooperation from the Government and related agencies is needed. The Government can develop rules that encourage and financially support school-business collaborations. Related agencies can also help to connect, advise, and support parties in the collaboration process.

What solutions has the Foreign Trade University deployed to meet businesses' demand for high-quality human resources?

With the desire to provide high-quality human resources as well as basic, open, flexible training programs that are consistent with practice, the Foreign Trade University has always identified cooperation with organizations and enterprises as both the goal and the driving force for its long-term development.

With the motto "Leading with distinction," we have collaborated with organizations and enterprises to build and develop many typical cooperation models in a variety of fields, including cooperation with UNESCO, UNDP, and WTO to develop many new training and research programs; engagement in the creation of creative ecosystems; and collaboration in developing and implementing training programs using a variety of new and unique methodologies.

Thank you very much!