The Colombo Plan Staff College (CPSC) team headed by its Director General, Prof. (Dr.) Suresh Kumar Dhameja, conducts a virtual meeting with the representatives of HCMUTE to discuss the potential collaboration between the two organizations
To further solidify and reinforce the relationship between the organization and its member countries, the Colombo Plan Staff College (CPSC) recently conducted a virtual high-level meeting with the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Engineering (HCMUTE) on May 05, 2026. This engagement marks a significant step towards the revitalization of Vietnam’s engagement with the Staff College as we continue to strengthen regional cooperation and synergy in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
The Staff College was ably represented by its Director General, Prof. (Dr.) Suresh Kumar Dhameja, alongside the CPSC Faculty Specialist and Officers. The HCMUTE, on the other hand, was represented by Mr. Duong Pham, Director of the Office of International Affairs, and Mr. Nam Tran Phuong from the Center for Innovation, Startup and Technology Transfer (CISAT). During the first part of the discussion, the institutions each presented an overview of their respective mandates, services, and institutional profile to establish a common understanding of priorities and areas of expertise as foundation for a meaningful collaboration in advancing TVET initiatives in the region.
The central focus of the discourse was the reactivation of Vietnam’s membership in CPSC in which the latter was originally a charter member of the organization. Moreover, several key areas of cooperation were explored including the designation of a CPSC Focal Person and APACC Special Officer at HCMUTE, hosting a CPSC Regional Program and international conference in Vietnam, and the development of faculty participation in the CPSC regional programs, other capacity-building activities, and International Webinars.
Both institutions also discussed opportunities for deeper academic collaboration including joint research and publication initiatives, as well as the conduct of customized training programs and study visits. In addition, an innovative proposal for a one-year online Master’s program in TVET, jointly awarded by CPSC and HCMUTE, was also introduced for consideration by DG-CPSC.
Further discussions highlighted the possibility of faculty exchange and short-term deputation programs, subject to the re-engagement of Vietnam within the CPSC network. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between institutions was likewise raised as a strategic step towards formalizing cooperation and ensuring sustained collaboration.
The engagement concluded on a positive note with both parties expressing strong commitment to advancing shared goals in TVET development and reaffirming their interest in building a more dynamic and future-oriented partnership in the Asia-Pacific region.
