Western Sydney University launches Australia-Vietnam Whitlam Scholarship program in celebration of 50 Years of diplomatic relations
Western Sydney University and University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the $2 million Australia-Vietnam Whitlam Scholarship program, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Vietnam.
The occasion was marked with a signing ceremony held on Sunday 4 June in Vietnam, and attended by special guests, the Prime Minister of Australia the Hon. Anthony Albanese MP, and Prime Minister of Vietnam, Mr Pham Minh Chinh.
Professor Barney Glover AO, Vice-Chancellor and President of Western Sydney University and Professor Su Dinh Thanh, President of the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) signed the agreement between the two universities to jointly launch the scholarship program, together with Western Sydney University Chancellor Professor Jennifer Westacott AO and the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) Chairman of the University Council Professor Nguyen Dong Phong.
The initiative will provide talented Vietnamese students with the opportunity to pursue university studies at Western Sydney University – both in Vietnam and Australia.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1973, Australia and Vietnam have fostered strong bilateral relationships across various sectors, including education. Western Sydney University has been a key contributor to education in Vietnam through its long-standing partnership with UEH University since 2008.
The Australian-Vietnam Whitlam Scholarship program reaffirms that commitment to higher education in Vietnam and celebrates 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
“The Australia-Vietnam Whitlam Scholarship program is a testament to Western Sydney University’s dedication to fostering education and academic exchange between Australia and Vietnam. By investing in the development of talented Vietnamese students, the University is helping strengthen ties between the two nations and contribute to their shared growth and prosperity,” said Professor Westacott.
"This agreement between UEH University and Western Sydney University marks another significant milestone between the two institutions, demonstrating their commitment to providing the highest quality education to Vietnamese students. Furthermore, the announced scholarships serve as a testament to the resolute dedication of both universities to offer educational support for the future development of Vietnam," said Professor Thanh.
The launch of the scholarship program follows the announcement that Western Sydney University has once again been ranked number one in the world for its social, economic and environmental impact in the 2023 Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings.
This is the second year in a row the University has placed first overall in the prestigious annual rankings – a first for an Australian university.
The Australia-Vietnam Whitlam Scholarship program comprises:
- Fifty offshore scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate programs to be undertaken in Vietnam. These scholarships will be available in various fields, including business and communications.
- Ten onshore scholarships for postgraduate and PhD programs to be pursued at Western Sydney University campuses in Sydney, Australia.
- The total value of the scholarship program is AUD $2 million.
The two universities encourage Vietnamese students who aspire to broaden their horizons and pursue their academic goals to apply for these scholarships. By taking part in this program, students will have access to a high-quality education, world-class facilities, and a supportive learning environment.
ENDS
5 June 2023
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