With the aim of strengthening university–industry collaboration and further enhancing the quality of its Automotive Engineering Technology program, a delegation from The University of Danang – University of Technology and Education (UD-UTE) visited several leading automotive enterprises in Da Nang on January 26 and 27, 2026, to extend New Year greetings and discuss future cooperation at the beginning of the Lunar New Year.
The delegation was led by Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Le Hung, Rector of the University, and included Dr. Nguyen Minh Tien, Acting Deputy Head of the Department of Science Management and International Cooperation; Dr. Nguyen Le Chau Thanh, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering; Dr. Bui Van Hung, Head of the Division of Automotive Engineering Technology, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering; and lecturers from the Division of Automotive Engineering Technology, namely Dr. Phung Minh Tung, Dr. Nguyen Hoai, and Mr. Do Phu Nguu, M.A.
The working trip commenced on January 26 with visits to several major automotive enterprises in Da Nang, including VinFast Da Nang, Geely Da Nang, and Howo Da Nang.
At VinFast Da Nang, discussions focused on the rapid development of electric vehicles (EVs), a sector creating significant demand for highly qualified engineering professionals. Based on the company's recruitment needs for engineers with strong expertise in electrical and electronic systems, as well as diagnostic and analytical skills for modern EV technologies, both sides explored the possibility of jointly organizing short-term training courses on electric vehicle technologies. Such initiatives are expected to provide students with early exposure to industry practices while enhancing their professional competencies.
Delegation visits and works with VinFast Da Nang
The delegation then visited Geely Da Nang, where company representatives introduced their modern management model and internationally standardized technical processes. They also shared insights into the company's working environment and recruitment criteria. Both parties agreed to explore the development of short-term professional training programs that would familiarize students with globally recognized technical standards, enabling them to better prepare for future careers and improve their adaptability to the evolving labor market.
Delegation visits and works with Geely Da Nang
At Howo Da Nang, discussions centered on the company's workforce demands in the commercial vehicle sector. Company representatives highlighted the current shortage of engineers with specialized expertise in heavy-duty engines and hydraulic systems. They also expressed their expectation that the University would consider incorporating supplementary training modules or developing customized programs tailored to industry needs, thereby narrowing the gap between education and employment while better addressing market demands.
Delegation visits and works with Howo Da Nang
On January 27, the delegation continued its working visit to Toyota Okayama Da Nang. The company highly appreciated the academic potential, learning attitude, and adaptability of UD-UTE students and introduced various internship and employment opportunities for 2026. Discussions also emphasized the growing importance of hybrid vehicle technology and customer service competencies in the modern automotive industry, identifying these areas as promising topics for future short-term training programs designed for final-year students.
Delegation visits and works with Toyota Okayama Da Nang
Later that day, the delegation visited Mitsubishi Savico Da Nang. In a friendly and open atmosphere, the company introduced several of its newly launched strategic vehicle models and shared its regular recruitment plans for technical personnel. Both sides recognized the importance of organizing technology update courses on new vehicle models, including the Mitsubishi Xforce and Triton, to help students stay abreast of technological advancements and enhance their confidence when entering the automotive workforce.
Delegation visits and works with Mitsubishi Savico Da Nang
During each visit, the University leadership extended Lunar New Year greetings to the management and staff of the partner companies while engaging in open discussions on future cooperation in developing high-quality engineering talent capable of meeting the practical needs of industry and society.
Representatives from the Division of Automotive Engineering Technology and the participating enterprises also discussed a number of specialized collaborative initiatives. These included incorporating the latest automotive technologies into the curriculum, expanding internship and industry placement opportunities, and enabling students to gain early exposure to professional working environments. Such initiatives are expected to narrow the gap between academic learning and industrial practice, improve the quality of education, and help students develop practical skills throughout their university studies.
The working trip concluded successfully, opening up numerous practical opportunities for collaboration in 2026 and reaffirming UD-UTE's commitment to strengthening partnerships with industry while enhancing its role and reputation in training high-quality engineering professionals and serving the community.