Viet Nam – New Zealand Education Forum in Waikato

This was the first such high-level delegation to visit New Zealand since the pandemic and follows the successful visit to Viet Nam by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in November, where both governments reaffirmed their commitment to working together as strategic partners. The delegation was led by H.E. Vương Đình Huệ, President of Viet Nam’s National Assembly. 

Universities New Zealand, University of Waikato, and Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) hosted the event, which was attended by representatives from all eight New Zealand universities. New Zealand’s former Governor-General and current Chancellor of the University of Waikato Sir Anand Satyanand addressed the forum, along with ENZ Chief Executive Grant McPherson and The University of Waikato's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Neil Quigley, who launched a New Zealand – Viet Nam Friendship Association at the forum. 

ENZ Chief Executive Grant McPherson spoke about his recent visit to Viet Nam, and our long history of education collaboration together. 

“It’s nothing short of outstanding to see New Zealand and Viet Nam’s strong education ties that span the last 60 years. Educational cooperation has always been at the heart of our partnership.” 

The forum proved to be a valuable opportunity to strengthen institution-to-institution relationships and further develop the education relationship between New Zealand and Viet Nam. Ten MoUs were signed between New Zealand and Vietnamese tertiary institutions, paving the way for further collaboration.