1.3.3. Low-income student support
Over 1,000 UEH Students Earn Certifications in Free Soft Skills and English Proficiency Programs
In its efforts to support students, particularly those facing financial challenges, the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) has successfully launched a series of supplementary programs aimed at enhancing soft skills and English proficiency. With 25 free soft skills classes and 12 language forums, these programs awarded certificates to over 1,000 students in 2023, equipping them to further develop their skills and expand future academic and career opportunities.
Building Soft Skills – Essential Preparation for Students
Soft skills are crucial in the era of Industry 4.0. The Department of Student Affairs organized 25 classes covering skills such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork—essential capabilities for adapting to a professional work environment. These classes not only boosted students' communication confidence but also helped them manage emotions, build critical thinking, and work efficiently. The programs included the participation of industry professionals, providing students with a practical perspective on employer expectations.
In 2023, certificates were awarded to 1,043 students who completed these courses, providing them with a significant advantage in building impressive personal profiles for employers.
Promoting English Proficiency through Language Forums
Recognizing English as a vital tool for Vietnamese students to access international opportunities, UEH organized 12 language forums as part of the UEH English Zone initiative. These sessions, led by experienced faculty and language experts, offered students practical engagement in English, improving their communication skills and sharing effective language-learning techniques.
With both online and in-person formats, these forums encouraged confidence in speaking English and highlighted the language's importance in today’s globalized world. Organized in collaboration with UEH School of Foreign Languages and the Department of Student Affairs (DSA), these free English forums provide valuable opportunities for students to confidently engage with the world.
Building on these results, UEH remains committed to broadening its support for students, not only through soft skills and language programs but by creating access to a wider range of resources. Moving forward, UEH aims to enhance student support by expanding the scale of soft skills courses and language seminars. Additionally, UEH plans to collaborate with various organizations and businesses to introduce new topics and programs, providing students with diverse opportunities for personal and academic growth.
Diverse Support for Students in Need
In addition to free courses, UEH issued 2,295 loan certificates through its online portal for students seeking loans from the Social Policy Bank and provided dormitory housing for students facing financial hardships. In 2023, 56 students from disadvantaged backgrounds were supported with dormitory accommodations, and an additional 300,000 VND per month was discounted for policy-recognized students. The UEH Shuttle Bus service, with a discounted fare of 5,000 VND per ride, has served 53,526 rides in 2023.
Through its comprehensive financial aid policies, UEH aims to help students complete their studies successfully, preparing them to become global citizens.
News and photos: Department of Student Affairs, Department of Research, Development and Global Engagement
