In a significant step towards nurturing Vietnam’s digital talent, the Vietnam–Korea University of Information and Communication Technology (VKU) signed a cooperation agreement with the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME). This strategic collaboration is set to drive the development of a skilled software workforce by combining academic training with real-world industry engagement, particularly within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
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Under the agreement, VKU and KOSME will jointly design and implement a range of initiatives aimed at cultivating the next generation of software experts in Vietnam. These include seminars, mentorship programmes, job fairs and employment networking activities.
The objective is to bridge the gap between classroom learning and the dynamic demands of the software industry, ensuring that graduates are not only technically proficient but also industry-ready.
The Rector of VKU, Associate Professor Dr Huynh Cong Phap, emphasised the importance of the partnership, describing it as a pivotal milestone in reinforcing the strategic and sustainable relationship between VKU and KOSME. He noted that the collaboration builds on a foundation of shared commitment to workforce development, innovation and bilateral cooperation between Vietnam and the Republic of Korea (RoK).
VKU, a member institution of the University of Da Nang, has steadily positioned itself as a hub for information and communication technology education in the region. With strong support from both the Vietnamese and Korean Governments, the university has been instrumental in delivering high-quality training for students who aspire to work not only in Vietnam and Korea but also in the global technology landscape.
The university’s existing relationships with Korean companies have already yielded fruitful outcomes in terms of internships, employment opportunities and collaborative research. This new agreement with KOSME is expected to further strengthen these ties by offering students more direct access to the Korean innovation ecosystem, including mentorship from experienced professionals and exposure to cutting-edge technologies used by Korean SMEs.
For KOSME, the collaboration aligns with its mission to support Korean startups and SMEs by fostering international partnerships and securing access to global talent. By investing in the development of skilled professionals in Vietnam, KOSME is also enabling Korean companies to benefit from a growing pool of well-trained, tech-savvy workers who can contribute to their overseas operations or collaborative projects.
The partnership also reflects the broader Vietnam–RoK cooperation in science, technology and human resource development. Both countries have recognised the critical role of digital skills in driving economic transformation and initiatives such as this underscore their shared vision for inclusive and sustainable growth in the digital age.
Looking ahead, VKU and KOSME aim to continuously adapt the programme to meet the evolving needs of the industry. Through this cooperation, they are laying a strong foundation for a new generation of software professionals who will contribute to technological innovation and economic development in both countries and beyond.
As OpenGov Asia reported, Vietnam and South Korea are strengthening their partnership in AI and digital technologies, as highlighted at the 2024 Vietnam-South Korea Digital Cooperation Forum. The collaboration focuses on AI-driven innovation in sectors such as healthcare, education and transportation, with South Korea providing expertise in digital governance and technology development.
Initiatives include training programmes, policy consultations and platforms like “AI Space,” which offers startups access to essential tools, enhancing their potential to drive technological growth and innovation, fostering long-term industry relationships.
Vietnam, ranking second in Southeast Asia for AI startups, benefits from South Korea’s experience in building AI ecosystems and digital infrastructure. Such initiatives ares set to accelerate Vietnam’s digital transformation, fostering a collaborative environment that supports both nations’ growth and technological advancement, contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable digital economy, strengthening the global digital landscape and fostering cross-border innovation.