Federation University establishes Vietnam training partnerships
Federation University Australia has strengthened its commitment to international education and workforce development in Southeast Asia, signing two new agreements with leading Vietnamese technical and vocational institutions at the Vietnam–Australia TechConnect Forum 2026 in Sydney.
Federation University signed two Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) agreements with LILAMA 2 International Technology College and Bac Ninh College of Industry (BCI) during the forum, strengthening education and training links between Australia and Vietnam.
The agreements build on the growing education relationship between Australia and Vietnam, one of Australia's fastest-growing education and skills partners. These mark a significant step in Federation University's expanding engagement with Vietnam, supporting greater cooperation in vocational education, industry engagement and workforce development across the Asia-Pacific region.
The forum was hosted by Vietnam's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Science and Technology, and Ministry of Education and Training, and co-organised by the Vietnam–Australia Scholars & Experts Association (VASEA) and Becamex Group.
The agreements provide a framework for collaboration in technical and vocational education and training, focusing on skills development, digital capability, professional development for teachers and trainers, student employability and stronger links between education, industry and government.
Federation and the two colleges will explore opportunities including curriculum sharing, staff and trainer exchanges, recognition of skills and qualifications, and potential pathways for Vietnamese students into further study or training in Australia, subject to regulatory approval and separate agreements for specific activities.
The partnerships reflect Federation's ongoing commitment to building international relationships that support educational innovation, workforce readiness and stronger connections between industry and training providers.
The ceremony formed part of the Forum's Cooperation Documents and Partnership Announcements session, held before an audience of about 500 delegates from government, industry, universities, research institutions and investors from both countries.
Quotes attributable to Federation University Chief Operating Officer Paul Oppenheimer
"These agreements reflect Federation University's commitment to building strong international partnerships that create opportunities for students, educators and industry.
"By working together, we can explore new pathways for students and create valuable opportunities for staff, trainers and industry partners in both countries."
Quotes attributable to Pro Vice-Chancellor VET and Pathways and Chief Executive TAFE Darren Gray
"Vietnam is an important partner for Australia, and we're pleased to be working with LILAMA 2 and Bac Ninh College of Industry to share knowledge, strengthen vocational education and training, skills development and to support future workforce needs.”
Quotes attributable to Mr Nguyen Khanh Cuong, Rector, LILAMA 2 International Technology College
“International collaboration is a key driver of quality and relevance in technical and vocational education. Our partnership with Federation University Australia reflects a shared commitment to innovation, institutional excellence, and industry-connected learning.
“Together, we aim to equip our students with the future-focused knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven and globally connected economy.”
Quotes attributable to Mr Vu Quang Khue, Rector, Bac Ninh College of Industry
"As a leading vocational education institution located in one of Vietnam’s most dynamic industrial provinces, Bac Ninh College of Industry is committed to developing a highly skilled workforce that meets international standards.
“Our partnership with Federation University Australia marks an important step in strengthening education quality, expanding industry engagement, and enhancing graduate employability, while ensuring our programmes continue to meet the evolving needs of industry and the global workforce."
About LILAMA 2 International Technology College
LILAMA 2 International College of Technology is one of Vietnam's leading Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, recognised for its strong industry partnerships and practice-oriented approach to education. The College delivers high-quality training across key engineering and technical disciplines, supporting the development of a skilled workforce for Vietnam's industrial transformation. The College specialises in engineering, advanced manufacturing, industrial automation, mechatronics, welding, electrical engineering, and other technical disciplines that support Vietnam's industrial development. Through close collaboration with government agencies, industry partners and international institutions, LILAMA 2 is committed to advancing education quality, innovation, digital transformation and workforce development. The College continues to expand its international partnerships to provide globally relevant education and enhance graduate employability in an increasingly interconnected economy.
About Bac Ninh College of Industry
Bac Ninh College of Industry (BCI) is a leading public vocational education institution in Vietnam, dedicated to preparing a highly skilled workforce for advanced manufacturing and high-tech industries. Situated in Bac Ninh Province, home to many global manufacturers and industrial parks, the College maintains strong partnerships with industry to ensure its training programmes remain relevant to evolving workforce needs. The College offers training in engineering, industrial electronics, automation, mechatronics, information technology and other technical disciplines that support key industries. BCI combines modern teaching facilities with close partnerships with domestic and international enterprises to provide students with practical, work-integrated learning experiences. Through continued investment in modern facilities, applied learning and international collaboration, BCI is expanding opportunities for students and staff while contributing to Vietnam's economic development and global competitiveness.