On 12 August 2026 in Vientiane, Lao PDR, a delegation from the National Economics University (NEU), led by Professor Tran Tho Dat, Chairman of NEU’s Science and Academic Council and former President of NEU, visited the National University of Laos (NUOL). The two universities discussed plans to relaunch their postgraduate education partnership and expand research collaboration in areas of shared interest, including digital transformation, climate change and the circular economy.

Overview of the Working Session

The NEU delegation was welcomed by Associate Professor Sinthavone Daravong, President of the National University of Laos, together with Associate Professor Vadsana Chanthanasinh, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business Management; Associate Professor Bounthone Soukavong, Director of the International Relations Office; Associate Professor Thanousorn Vongpraseuth; and representatives of relevant units

Also attending the meeting was Mr. Sakhone Phommalath, Deputy Head of the Commission for Information and Education of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee, who is currently pursuing his doctoral studies at NEU’s School of Economics and Public Management.

Joining Professor Tran Tho Dat from NEU was Dr. Pham Sy Long, Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Department.

Building on a Longstanding Academic Partnership
During the meeting, Professor Tran Tho Dat conveyed congratulations from Associate Professor Bui Duc Tho, President of NEU, to Associate Professor Sinthavone Daravong on his recent appointment as President of the National University of Laos.
On behalf of the NEU President, Professor Tran Tho Dat also extended an invitation to Associate Professor Sinthavone Daravong to attend NEU’s 70th Anniversary celebrations in November 2026.

In return, Associate Professor Sinthavone Daravong invited the NEU leadership to join NUOL’s 30th Anniversary celebrations, scheduled for early November.

As both universities mark significant institutional milestones in 2026, the meeting provided a timely opportunity to reaffirm their longstanding relationship and explore new directions for cooperation.

Prof. Tran Tho Dat, Chairman of the NEU’s Science and Academic Council, holds discussions with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sinthavone Daravong, President of the National University of Laos, during a working session.

Relaunching Postgraduate Education Cooperation
A key focus of the discussions was the proposed relaunch of the postgraduate education program under which NEU awards the degrees and the program is delivered at the National University of Laos.

The model builds on a successful history of cooperation between the two institutions, which has already produced four master’s cohorts and one doctoral cohort. Many alumni of these programmes have subsequently advanced their careers across both the public and business sectors in Laos.

For the next phase, the two universities discussed broadening access to the program to include the Vietnamese community in Laos, Vietnamese professionals working in the country, and Lao graduates who have completed university studies in Vietnam, particularly NEU alumni.

Depending on learner demand, programs could be delivered in Vietnamese or English, providing greater flexibility and accessibility for different groups of prospective students.

By revitalising a proven model of academic cooperation, NEU and NUOL aim to contribute further to the development of high-quality human resources while strengthening educational and professional connections between Vietnam and Laos.

Expanding Joint Research and International Projects
Beyond postgraduate education, the two universities agreed to strengthen joint research and participation in international research projects, with particular attention to emerging areas of mutual interest such as digital transformation, climate change and the circular economy.

This direction provides opportunities to deepen the partnership beyond its established strengths in education by connecting researchers from both universities, developing collaborative research initiatives and jointly pursuing international funding opportunities. Such cooperation is expected to support research addressing development challenges relevant not only to Vietnam and Laos, but also to the wider region, while strengthening the international dimension of research at both institutions.

Assoc. Prof. Sinthavone Daravong, President of the National University of Laos, presents the university’s new emblem to the NEU delegation

As one of Vietnam’s leading universities in economics, management and business administration, NEU places particular importance on its relationships with higher education institutions in Laos. Within this network, the National University of Laos has been a significant partner in postgraduate education and human resource development.

The meeting on 12 August reaffirmed the two universities’ shared commitment to building on the achievements of their longstanding partnership while developing new forms of cooperation responsive to emerging educational, research and development priorities.

Through renewed postgraduate education, collaborative research and participation in international projects, NEU and NUOL seek to create greater opportunities for students, academics and researchers from both institutions while contributing to the enduring great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos.

Article by Department of International Cooperation Department, NEU