On the morning of October 6, 2026, the National Economics University held the Opening Ceremony for the 6th Cohort of the Bachelor of Business (BBUS) Joint Training Program between the National Economics University and the University of Waikato (New Zealand).

Scene of the ceremony

Attending the Opening Ceremony, from the external delegates, were: Ms. Caroline Beresford – New Zealand Ambassador to Vietnam; Ms. Nguyen Lam Giang – Director of External Relations for Southeast Asia and East Asia – University of Waikato; Ms. Dianne Donald – Senior Program Operations Manager, University of Waikato.

From the National Economics University, there were: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Duc Tho – Party Secretary, Director of the University; Prof. Dr. To Trung Thanh – Deputy Director of the University; Prof. Dr. Ta Van Loi – Dean of the School of Business, Director of the Institute of Commerce & International Economics; along with representatives from various Schools, Departments, Faculties, Institutes, Centers; political-social organizations; staff and lecturers from both universities participating in the program, and especially the new students along with their families and relatives.

The Bachelor of Business program is jointly offered by the two universities with two majors: Supply Chain Management and Digital Business. These are fields of study aligned with the trends of digital transformation, international integration, and the workforce needs of the economy.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Duc Tho – Party Secretary, Director of the National Economics University speaking

In his welcome speech at the ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Duc Tho – Director of the National Economics University congratulated the 64 new students of the 6th cohort on officially beginning their academic journey in the program, while emphasizing the positive outcomes of the collaboration between the National Economics University and the University of Waikato, thereby expanding opportunities for students to access an international educational environment and high-quality educational programs.

According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Duc Tho, the University of Waikato and the National Economics University are both renowned for their excellent academic quality, innovative spirit, and international engagement. Digital Business and Supply Chain Management are the flagship academic programs of the two universities, and they are also leading fields in the labor market trends.

The collaboration between the two universities not only provides students with a globally recognized degree but also creates opportunities for new graduates to contribute to the increasing demand for skilled human resources in supply chain management and digital business in Vietnam.

Addressing the new students of the 6th cohort, the Director of the National Economics University affirmed the University’s commitment to providing a high-quality learning experience with dedicated support. The program is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing them to become leaders and experts in their chosen fields.

Ms. Caroline Beresford – New Zealand Ambassador to Vietnam speaking at

At the ceremony, Ms. Caroline Beresford – New Zealand Ambassador to Vietnam extended her congratulations to the new students of the 6th cohort, emphasizing that this is a period for students not only to accumulate knowledge but also to develop independent thinking, learn to ask questions, embrace new perspectives, and take responsibility for their own learning.

The New Zealand Ambassador to Vietnam acknowledged and praised the commitment of both institutions to a high-quality program with a future-oriented vision. The program combines the strengths of both educational institutions, allowing students to benefit from the education of the University of Waikato within the academic environment and community of the National Economics University.

According to Ms. Caroline Beresford, Vietnam is undergoing rapid economic and technological transformation, setting ambitious goals for the future. To realize these aspirations, a young generation with capabilities, international mindset, and adaptability is needed.

Combining Vietnam’s evolving needs for innovation, digitalization, and international business with New Zealand’s educational strengths in creativity, practical problem-solving, and independent thinking will equip students with the tools to succeed in the labor market and contribute to Vietnam’s future.

The New Zealand Ambassador also emphasized the significance of the program in the relationship between the two countries, especially as Vietnam and New Zealand have upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The program serves as a testament to the bond between the people of the two nations, connecting educational institutions, creating opportunities for young people, and building friendships that extend beyond the classroom.

Ms. Dianne Donald – Senior Program Operations Manager, University of Waikato speaking

At the Opening Ceremony, the National Economics University and the University of Waikato announced the list of admitted students, awarded commendations and scholarships to outstanding students; and organized a welcoming ceremony and interaction with 64 new students of the 6th cohort, marking the beginning of their academic journey in the program.

University leaders along with unit leaders presenting scholarships to the new students of the 6th cohort

Ms. Caroline Beresford presenting a scholarship to Do Ha Ngan, a new student of the 6th cohort

Representing the new graduates, Do Ha Ngan from class SCM6 expressed her honor in representing the new students of the international joint program with Waikato at the National Economics University (NEU).

According to Do Ha Ngan, after not being accepted into her dream choice, she was fortunate to learn about the international joint program at NEU, where she had the opportunity to study both Supply Chain Management and Digital Business, two fields with significant development potential not only in Vietnam but also in the international market.

Do Ha Ngan – student of class SCM6 speaking

To explore and decide to enroll in the program, Do Ha Ngan stated that she had only about a month before the registration deadline. She revised her essay multiple times, practiced interviews, and prepared for this new opportunity. These efforts helped Ngan secure a 50% scholarship from the program.

With this beginning, Ha Ngan expressed hope that during the years of studying in the joint bachelor’s program, it would not only provide a degree but also help herself and fellow students dare to step out of their comfort zones, ready to embark on a new chapter of life.

The opening ceremony marked the beginning of the academic journey for 64 new students of the 6th cohort, while also reaffirming the achievements in the collaboration between the National Economics University and the University of Waikato. On the increasingly strengthened foundation of cooperation, the program aims to provide students with an international learning environment, opportunities to develop knowledge, skills, and global thinking, equipping them to confidently adapt and thrive in the context of integration.

Some images from the ceremony:

Article and photos: Communications Department

Media coverage of the ceremony:

Hanoi Television: (the segment starts from 08:30).

Nhan Dan: Connecting Vietnam-New Zealand Education, Expanding Opportunities for Learners

People’s Deputies: NEU Organizes Opening Ceremony for Joint Bachelor’s Program with University of Waikato

Education & Time Newspaper: National Economics University Launches Joint Bachelor of Business Program