By AIT Public Affairs
13 September 2024: The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) and the Victoria Institute of Banking, Finance, and High Technology (BFT), part of Sovico Group, have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at advancing human resource development and fostering research innovations. Signed on 13 September 2024, the MoU underscores a commitment to collaboration in education, research, consultancy, and training programs, benefiting both institutions and their respective industries.
From L-R: Dr. Phung Van Dong, Prof. Pai-Chi Li, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ha Thanh Viet, and Mr. Tran Hoai Nam
The key objective of the MoU is to foster cooperation in postgraduate academic programs and research projects, particularly in areas such as digital technology, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Additionally, the MoU outlines efforts to develop specialized training programs for staff at Sovico Group, HDBank, and their strategic partners within the digital ecosystem.
Prof. Pai-Chi Li, President of AIT, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “This partnership is a great opportunity to merge AIT’s academic strengths with Victoria Institute’s industry leadership. Together, we will contribute to the region’s sustainable development through joint research on digital technology, ESG, and AI, along with collaborative training and faculty exchanges. This partnership will develop future leaders and ensure valuable outcomes for both institutions.”
Mr. Tran Hoai Nam, MSc, Deputy General Director of HDBank and AIT Alumnus, emphasized the potential of this partnership, stating, “Through this cooperation, AIT, Sovico Group, and Victoria Institute can drive advancements in AI, digital technologies, and other key areas. This collaboration will provide essential training opportunities, ensuring future leaders are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving technological landscape.”
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ha Thanh Viet, Director of the Victoria Institute, shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This MoU signifies the beginning of a long-term and fruitful partnership. The Victoria Institute aspires to lead the field in banking system research in Vietnam, and through this partnership, we will advance high-tech solutions in AI, foster innovation, and build a competitive workforce in the country.”
The MoU was signed by Prof. Li and Dr. Viet. The scope of collaboration outlined in the MoU includes joint research on emerging topics such as digital technology, ESG, and AI. Additionally, the partnership will focus on developing training programs for the staff of Sovico Group, HDBank, and strategic partners in the digital ecosystem. The exchange of staff between the Victoria Institute, Sovico Group, HDBank, and AIT for training and research purposes is another key feature of this agreement. Furthermore, the MoU encourages the exchange of experts and lecturers to enhance both teaching and collaborative research efforts.
This partnership, spearheaded by AIT’s Vietnam Center, marks a significant step forward in joint efforts to support the future development of the banking and digital technology sectors, reflecting a shared vision for sustainable progress.
“AIT, with its longstanding expertise in engineering, science, and technology, and the Victoria Institute, with its focus on banking and finance in the digital age, are well-positioned to create synergies that will benefit students, researchers, and industry professionals,” AIT Vietnam Executive Director Dr. Phung Van Dong said.
About Victoria Institute of Banking, Finance, and High Technology (BFT)
Founded in November 2022 with sponsorship from HDBank and support from Vietjet Air and other strategic partners in the digital ecosystem, the Victoria Institute of Banking, Finance, and High Technology (BFT) is part of Sovico Group. Established in 1990, Sovico is a prominent investor across various sectors, including finance, banking, aviation, real estate, energy, asset management, and investment. BFT operates as a smart university, combining theoretical and practical education to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge.
