TDTU Strengthens Educational and Research Cooperation with New Zealand’s Leading Universities

At the invitation of Massey University and the University of Waikato (New Zealand), a delegation from Ton Duc Thang University (TDTU), led by Dr. Tran Trong Dao, President of the University, paid a visit and held working sessions with the two partner universities on May 26 and 27, 2025. The visit aimed to strengthen strategic cooperation in the fields of education, research, and academic exchange.

1. Strengthening Comprehensive Cooperation with Massey University:

At Massey University (Auckland), both institutions have reviewed the results of the previous cooperations, with the highlight being the successful implementation of the dual-degree joint programs in Finance. TDTU and Massey University agreed to further expanding the joint program at Master’s and Doctoral levels.

Additionally, both institutions agreed to broaden cooperation in other key areas such as Engineering and Technology, Information Technology, Construction Management, and Food Technology. Research collaboration was also a key focus, with the goal of participating in international projects, exchanging experts and connecting interdisciplinary research groups.

The visit, furthermore, opened up a variety of opportunities for lecturer and student exchanges, as well as organization of joint academic programs.

2. Reviving and Expanding Cooperation with the University of Waikato:

Following the successful visit to Massey University, the TDTU delegation proceeded to the University of Waikato (Hamilton) – a partner that signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with TDTU in 2019 – for another working session. Although previous cooperation was limited, both institutions expressed their strong determination to revive and enhance cooperation in the upcoming phase.

The focus of cooperation centers on Business Administration, Marketing, and Information Technology. The two universities also agreed to develop the joint training programs, co-organize the international scientific conferences, and facilitate the opportunities for lectures and researchers from both sides to participate in academic networks, particularly the network of adjunct professors.

The discussions highlighted the significant potential of academic exchanges, joint research development and enhancement of the international outlook of training programs.

Affirming TDTU’s Position and Internationalization Strategy:

This working visit to New Zealand is part of TDTU’s strategy to expand international relations and foster global academic development. With a vision of becoming an elite research university in the region and globally, TDTU will continue to strengthen its partnerships with prestigious universities to provide an international-standard learning and research environment for both lecturers and students.

Information about the partner university:

MASSEY UNIVERSITY

• Established in 1927, Massey University is one of the three largest universities in New Zealand, known for its applied research focus.
• The university has over 27,000 students, with approximately 27% being international students from more than 100 countries.
• It operates three campuses located in Palmerston North (Manawatū), Auckland (Albany), and Wellington.
• Rankings: #239 globally in QS Rankings 2025 and placed in the 501–600 band in THE Rankings 2025.

THE UNIVERSITY OF WAIKATO

• Established in 1964, the University of Waikato is one of New Zealand's well-regarded universities, known for its strengths in research and internationalization.
• The university has over 10,000 students, with approximately 27% being international students from more than 80 countries.
• It has two main campuses located in Hamilton and Tauranga.
• Rankings: #235 globally in QS Rankings 2025 and placed in the 401–500 band in THE Rankings 2025.