BUV and Manchester Metropolitan University Advance Sustainability through International Mobility Programmes

With sustainability at the heart of both institutions, the recent visit of students from Manchester Metropolitan University to Vietnam further reinforced BUV’s dedication to advancing global mobility and sustainable development. 

As part of the Culture Immersion Programme of BUV designed to foster academic exchange and cross-cultural dialogue, BUV welcomed the first cohort of 20 students from Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) to Vietnam this summer.

During their 7-day journey, MMU students took part in a wide range of sustainability-focused activities, from engaging in thought-provoking discussions on sustainability with BUV students, to taking concrete action through tree planting at SOS Children’s Village in Hai Phong and BUV’s campus and participating in a trash picking activity in Ha Long Bay.  

“These experiences offered a well-rounded and immersive understanding of sustainability in the Vietnamese context. They not only deepened students’ cultural appreciation but also inspired a sense of global citizenship, equipping them with the awareness, empathy, and motivation to make a positive impact wherever their journeys may lead,” shared Mrs. Hien Nguyen, Head of International Mobility and Partnerships, BUV. 

Reflecting on the experience, Lynn Mulumba, a Law student from MMU, expressed her enthusiasm and appreciation: “I’m glad that my trip not only benefitted me but also the environment and future generations, making me more conscious of how my actions can affect others. Cleaning up Ha Long Bay was such a fun experience, the water was so blue and there were monkeys and butterflies everywhere! It really made me appreciate wildlife and the beauty found in nature. Overall, I left Vietnam with an appreciation for our planet and protecting it in every way possible.” 

MMU is widely recognised for its commitment to sustainability, having consistently ranked among the top five most sustainable universities in the UK’s People and Planet League for over a decade. BUV, meanwhile, is a trailblazer in Vietnam for its investment in sustainable governance, green education, and infrastructure. The university has been awarded the prestigious EDGE green building certification, a global standard of excellence for sustainable construction. 

Through this sustainability-infused Culture Immersion Programme, both institutions reaffirm their green visions and shared commitment to advancing sustainable development. It also highlights the critical role that educational institutions play as powerful catalysts for sustainable development. 

Students have the opportunity to engage with local communities, gain new perspectives, and take humble steps toward social impact. 

Beyond sustainability, the visit also provided an exceptional opportunity for international students to explore Vietnamese culture, business practices, and academic life.   

From exploring some of Vietnam’s most renowned cultural and historical landmarks like Bat Trang Ceramic Museum, Hoa Lo Prison, the Temple of Literature, to experiencing the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, students gained first-hand insights into the country’s rich heritage and cultural diversity.  

In addition to cultural exploration, the students engaged with Vietnam’s innovative business environment through a visit to the green campus of FPT Software where students learned how a leading Vietnamese tech enterprise is contributing to national economic growth and were introduced to potential internship opportunities in Vietnam. 

“This programme was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” shared Edvinas Gumuliauskas, a Business Technology student from MMU. “From experiencing the culture to learning new skills, it was the perfect balance between academia and free time. I would strongly urge anyone who can apply to give it a good shot!.” 

The BUV’s Culture Immersion Programme offers a perfect blend of culture, learning, and fun for international students. 

This Culture Immersion Programme is part of a broader partnership established between BUV and MMU since November 2024, which aims to expand academic exchange, research collaboration, and student mobility. This partnership was further strengthened through the signing of a Progression Agreement in May 2025, allowing students from nine BUV undergraduate programmes to pursue a master’s degree at MMU with a large tuition fee discount. 

Founded in 1824, MMU is a modern university with a proud history of education. It holds a Gold rating in the UK’s Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) and is recognised among the top modern universities for research quality, with 90% of its research rated as world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021). Its Business School ranks in the top 1% of business schools globally, maintaining triple accreditation since 2019. 

With internationalisation as a strategic pillar of BUV’s development, the successful visit of MMU students represents a meaningful highlight in the university’s international mobility efforts. Through growing partnerships with top-tier UK universities, BUV continues to enrich its educational offerings and empower students with the global competencies needed to thrive in an interconnected and rapidly changing world.