Strengthening cooperation with CIT (Ireland)

Within the VIBE I project, to promote the start-up activities of Vietnamese youth sponsored by the Irish Government, a delegation from the University of Economics - University of Danang visited and worked in the CIT Technology Institute in Cork, Ireland. Since 2015 , the two institutions have successfully exchanged and cooperated in terms of start-up activities and organization of the Danang Startup Runway contest for all young people who are passionate about entrepreneurship in Da Nang city. Winners are sent to CIT's Rubicon Center for guidance on the implementation of their projects.

The delegation had the opportunity to meet, work and congratulate the new Rector of the Cork Academy - Dr. Barry O'Connor and Dr Orla Flynn - Vice Rector of the Academy. The Board of Trustees of the Academy also affirmed that the University of Economics - University of Da Nang is an important partner of the School in Asia, which is clearly stated in the Development Strategy with CIT stakeholders. . As a leading university in  start-up, applied research and the PhD training, CIT has always expanded and welcomed the students of the University of Economics from many different sectors: Business management, international business, marketing, management information system ... According to the leaders of CIT, students of the University of Economics demonstrate the ability to integrate very well within the Robinson Center training in the first round (2016) and the second round (2017). The delegation also met with organizations participating in CIT Initiative Ecosystems such as Enterprise Ireland, Cork Trade Promotion Center, Hincks Innovation Center, STEM Business Connectivity Center. Here, start-up ideas are welcomed and supported by the CIT Institute in a standardized process: screening ideas, technical assistance, registration and trade support procedures. The success rate after one year of starting a business at CIT is quite high, about 65% (Robicon, CIT, 2017).

The delegation also worked and spoke directly with the Heads of Business Administration (Dr. Brian McGrath), Dean of Business (Dr. Gerald O 'Donavan), Dean of Marketing and International Business. Mr. Pio Fenton) on the possibility of expanding cooperation in the 2 + 2 program for International Business, Business Administration and General Business Administration. This will be a great opportunity for students and faculty members to gain access to advanced knowledge and training in Ireland and Europe.