BUV Leads Educational Collaboration to Successful Digital Transformation in Vietnamese Universities

With key events recently held in Ho Chi Minh City, the SOARing Digital Transformation in Vietnamese Universities initiative, led by BUV in partnership with Bournemouth University and other Vietnamese institutions, has made significant progress in providing valuable insights into the tools and strategies driving digital transformation in universities. 

The “SOARing Digital Transformation in Vietnamese Universities” initiative (SOARing DX-VN Project) represents a collaborative effort between British University Vietnam (BUV), Bournemouth University in the UK, and other distinguished Vietnamese educational institutions, including the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) and Tra Vinh University (TVU). As the project leader, BUV is driving efforts to advance digital transformation in Vietnamese higher education, working closely with local and international partners to implement innovative strategies and tools. 

Recently, three major events took place in Ho Chi Minh City, marking key milestones in the project’s journey. The series of events served as a platform to highlight the initiative’s progress, share valuable insights, and foster a deeper understanding of the strategies and tools being implemented to support digital transformation in universities. As the project moves forward, it continues to play a pivotal role in driving institutional change, empowering universities to embrace technology and innovate for the future. 

Starting from 2023, the SOARing DX-VN Project is generously supported by the British Council through the Going Global Partnerships fund. By leveraging the SOAR (Strengths, Opportunities, Aspirations, Results) strategic planning approach, the initiative aims to act as a catalyst for digital transformation within Vietnamese higher education. This two-year project seeks to develop frameworks and tools, such as the Digital Maturity Self-Assessment Tool, to help institutions assess and improve their readiness for a future driven by technology and innovation.  

Through this collaboration, BUV and its partners aim to empower Vietnamese universities to embrace the digital age, fostering innovation and strengthening educational outcomes across the country. 

“Digital Transformation Compass for Vietnamese Higher Education: Tools, Pathways and Strategies” Symposium at UEH 

On March 27, 2025, the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) hosted the “Digital Transformation Compass for Vietnamese Higher Education: Tools, Pathways and Strategies” symposium, attracting over 50 participants from leading Vietnamese universities, including BUV. The event provided a platform for university leaders, experts, and educators to explore essential tools and strategies for successfully navigating the digital landscape.  

Assoc. Prof. Mike Perkins – Head of Centre for Research and Innovation at BUV shares insights on digital transformation progress and the application of the Digital Maturity Self-Assessment Tool at the symposium

Assoc. Prof. Milena Bobeva from Bournemouth University – a BUV’s partner – introduced the SOARing DX-VN Project, unveiling the Digital Maturity Self-Assessment Tool, designed to help Vietnamese universities assess and track their digital transformation progress. The tool aims to guide institutions in mapping their digital journeys and preparing for future challenges. The event also featured presentations by Mr. Duc Huynh from UEH, Dr. Thuy Tieu from Tra Vinh University, and Assoc. Prof. Mike Perkins, Head of Centre for Research and Innovation at BUV. Each speaker showcased how their respective universities have applied the Digital Maturity Self-Assessment Tool and demonstrated the progress made in implementing digital transformation strategies.  

Throughout the event, participants engaged in a series of mentoring sessions where they explored critical topics such as digital maturity, promoting digital culture, and the role of peer observation in enhancing digital teaching. The symposium concluded with a panel discussion on leadership in digital transformation, highlighting the importance of visionary leadership in driving change within academic institutions. 

UK- Southeast Asia Tech Week Workshop at Hilton Saigon 

The UK- Southeast Asia Tech Week is the UK’s flagship annual event focused on science, innovation, and technology in Southeast Asia. This year, the workshop, held at Hilton Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City, brought together UK tech companies, Vietnamese university leaders, and local tech innovators to foster productive dialogue on the challenges and opportunities of digital transformation in higher education. 

Experts and leaders gather at Hilton Saigon to explore strategies for digital transformation in education

BUV and Bournemouth University took this opportunity to showcase the progress and results of their SOARing DX-VN Project At UK- Southeast Asia Tech Week 2025, Assoc. Prof. Milena Bobeva and Assoc. Prof. Mike Perkins led an interactive session that explored the key challenges universities face when adopting digital transformation. They shared innovative solutions from both academic and industry perspectives, helping attendees navigate the complexities of digital change.  

The workshop received excellent feedback, highlighting its success in fostering stronger cross-border collaboration. This outcome further contributes to building a digitally resilient education future, bridging international expertise and creating new opportunities for innovation and growth in education technology.  

Assoc. Prof. Mike Perkins engaging with attendees, offering expert guidance on leveraging technology for a digitally resilient education system

Knowledge Sharing Sessions at Tra Vinh University 

Tra Vinh University (TVU) hosted two knowledge-sharing sessions focusing on the integration of AI in higher education: “Transforming Assessment Practices in Higher Education with the AI Assessment Scale (AIAS)” and “Strategies for Innovative Education Practices in the Era of AI”. By embracing AI, educators can not only modernise their methods but also create a more dynamic and interactive learning experience for students, equipping them with the digital skills needed for the future. 

As part of the event, Assoc. Prof. Mike Perkins presented the AI Assessment Scale (AIAS) during a session dedicated to transforming assessment practices in higher education. The AIAS is a practical tool specifically designed to help educators enable the integration of GenAI tools into tests and assessments, while providing direction for responsible AI usage in teaching and learning activities. By utilising this tool, educators can streamline the assessment process, ensuring it is more efficient, personalised, and aligned with the evolving educational landscape.   

Besides supporting educators in assessing the integration of AI into student assessments, the session “Strategies for Innovative Education Practices in the Era of AI”, led by Assoc. Prof. Gelareh Roushan from Bournemouth University also provided valuable insights into promoting responsible and ethical AI usage in both teaching practices and student engagement. This discussion aimed to help educators cultivate a mindset of ethical AI use while enhancing student learning experiences.

Assoc. Prof. Mike Perkins introducing the AI Assessment Scale (AIAS) during the session on transforming assessment practices in higher education

With its far-reaching impact, the SOARing DX-VN project continues to have a strong influence on the educational landscape in Vietnam. With the creation of the Digital Transformation Hub and a comprehensive strategic roadmap, BUV and its UK partners are equipping Vietnamese universities with the tools, resources, and frameworks needed to navigate the digital transformation journey. This initiative is not only enhancing the quality of education but also helping universities adapt to and thrive in the rapidly changing technological environment. As BUV leads this pioneering effort, it remains committed to providing customised solutions for the Vietnamese higher education sector, ensuring that institutions are well-prepared to succeed in the digital age.