Vietnam participates in Asia-Pacific university network collaboration project
The Russian-Asian Faculty (RAF), a new initiative connecting top universities across the Asia-Pacific region, has been launched by the Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU). This project is part of Russia's "Priority 2030" program under the national project "Youth and Children".
The RAF initiative originated from successful partnerships with Chinese institutions, according to FEFU Rector Boris Korobets. The aim of the RAF is to establish joint research institutes, launch double-degree programs, and build specialised skills for working in both the Russian and Asian markets.
The RAF consolidates joint academic programs with universities from China, India, Vietnam, Thailand, and other Asia-Pacific nations. Future technical and technological programmes have been agreed upon with Tezpur University of India, while agreements on international business and project management have been made with Thailand's National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA).
Participants exchanged memoranda of understanding, including agreements on joint programs on international relations with East China Normal University and the University of Foreign Languages under Vietnam's University of Da Nang. The University of Da Nang plans to launch a program for its students in the 2026-2027 academic year, where students will study the first two years in Vietnam and the following two years at participating RAF institutions, graduating with dual degrees.
The training areas covered by the RAF include the humanities, economics, engineering, and technology. The memoranda also envisage exploring further academic and scientific projects, as well as exchange programs and joint events in the future.
Associate Professor Dr Nguyen Van Long, Rector of the University of Foreign Language Studies under the University of Da Nang, represented Vietnam at the signing ceremony. Cooperation with leading Asia-Pacific universities, according to NIDA Rector Tippavan Lorsuvannarat, will allow RAF participants to integrate advanced international experience into education and management.
FEFU aims to integrate at least 20 joint programs with Asia-Pacific universities across all its schools and faculties by 2027. The meeting took place following the launch of the Russian-Asian Faculty (RAF) by FEFU.
Southeast Asian nations are showing dynamic post-pandemic economic recovery, creating favorable conditions for new educational initiatives and academic mobility, as stated by NIDA Rector Tippavan Lorsuvannarat. Students participating in the RAF will study under a linked model, spending some semesters at FEFU and others at partner universities across the region.
The RAF is expected to contribute significantly to the academic and professional development of students, fostering a better understanding of the diverse cultures and economies in the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative underscores the commitment of participating universities to fostering global collaboration and mutual growth.
