Ton Duc Thang University Promotes Strategic Partnerships at Macquarie University and Australian Catholic University, Australia

Sydney, May 19, 2025 – As part of its official visit to Australia to expand international relations and promote global collaboration, the delegation from Ton Duc Thang University (TDTU), led by Dr. Tran Trong Dao – President of TDTU had a productive working day with two prestigious universities in Sydney: Macquarie University and the Australian Catholic University (ACU).

The TDTU delegation included Dr. Tran Trong Dao – President; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dinh Hoang Bach, Director of the International Cooperation, Research and Training Institute; and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Minh Tung – Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering.

1. Visit to Macquarie University:

 At Macquarie University – one of Australia’s leading research institutions – the University leaders warmly welcomed the TDTU delegation. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on this occasion, marking an important milestone in their collaborative relationship.

The signing ceremony was honored by the presence of Mr. Nguyen Thanh Tung – Consul-General of Vietnam in Sydney, representing the diplomatic mission of Vietnam in Australia. In his congratulatory remarks, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Tung stated: “Ton Duc Thang University is among the most dynamic, innovative, and internationally-oriented higher education institutions in Vietnam. I am delighted to witness the collaboration between TDTU and Macquarie University – two universities that share a vision of quality, innovation, and sustainable development. Today’s signing holds substantial academic significance and serves as a testament to the deepening educational partnership between Vietnam and Australia.”

At Macquarie University, the TDTU delegation was welcomed by Ms. Lee-ann Norris – Pro Vice-Chancellor for Future Students; Mr. Tanveer Shaheed – Director, International Recruitment; along with leaders from various faculties. During the meeting, the two institutions discussed and agreed on several potential areas of collaboration, including:

• Developing joint study programs, particularly at the graduate level;
• Promoting student and lecturer exchange;
• Collaborating on research in key areas such as Business, Engineering, and Science;
• Organizing international conferences and short-term academic programs.

The TDTU delegation also had in-depth working sessions with the Macquarie Business School (MQBS) and the Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE). Representatives from Macquarie’s units expressed their strong impression of TDTU’s research capabilities and robust internationalization strategy, and affirmed their commitment to effectively implementing collaborative initiatives following the signing ceremony.

The program concluded with a tour of Macquarie University’s modern campus, guided by Vietnamese students currently studying at the university. The visit fostered a warm and friendly atmosphere, further strengthening the sense of community connection.

2. Visit to Australian Catholic University (ACU)

The program continued at the North Sydney campus of Australian Catholic University (ACU), where the TDTU delegation had a working session with senior leaders of ACU.

Welcoming and working with the TDTU delegation on behalf of ACU were Prof. Zlatko Skrbis – Vice-Chancellor and President; Prof. Phil Parker – Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Enterprise; Mr. Chris Riley – Pro Vice-Chancellor for Global and Education Pathways; along with leaders from international partnerships and admissions.

The two institutions engaged in both a roundtable discussion and a formal discussion, sharing their strategic visions for higher education, internationalization, and common values in their mission to serve the community through high-quality education. The discussions focused on several specific areas of potential collaboration, including:

• Developing joint international study programs;
• Collaborating on research and academic initiatives;
• Facilitating student and lecturer exchange programs;
• Partnering in international student recruitment and market development.

Affirming TDTU’s international position and commitment to global integration

The successful visit on May 19, 2025, to two prestigious Australian universities marked a significant milestone in Ton Duc Thang University’s strategy for internationalization and integration. Through high-level meetings, academic exchanges, and the signing of cooperation agreements, TDTU continues to affirm its position as a trusted academic partner within the global education network, committed to enhancing the quality of education, research, and community service.