DUE’s Women of Distinction: A Female Academic’s Perspective on Collaboration and Opportunities for Growth in Higher Education

“I have always believed that what matters in a team is not only how far each individual can go, but also how far we can go together".

For me, this is more than a reflection on work; it is a lesson shaped by years of working in higher education. When I took on the role of Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Economics, The University of Danang, in April 2021, I understood that, beyond my professional duties, I had also assumed responsibility for the team, my colleagues’ development and the shared goals of the faculty.

My professional journey began with a passion for knowledge and a decision to pursue a career in law. In 1998, I graduated with a degree in Economic Law from Hanoi Law University; in 2004, I completed my master’s degree; and in 2012, I successfully defended my doctoral dissertation. Each stage demanded perseverance and a serious commitment to learning. The deeper I ventured into the profession, the more I realised that knowledge was not an end in itself, but a foundation for continued learning and for improving my work every day.

In 2012, I was honoured to receive a Certificate of Merit from the Vietnam Association of Female Intellectuals. My years of recognition as an outstanding emulation achiever at the grassroots level and at the provincial level, along with a Certificate of Merit from the Minister of Education and Training in 2015, are distinctions I deeply value. Yet, for me, each recognition is also a reminder not to rest on past achievements, but to continue striving and contributing more to our collective endeavours.

In higher education, I have found that academic work and management involve different demands, but both require dedication and a strong sense of responsibility. I believe perseverance is one of women's strengths, enabling us to pursue our goals and remain resilient in the face of challenges. At the same time, I recognise that a team cannot develop through the efforts of its leader or a handful of individuals alone. What matters is creating an environment in which everyone has the opportunity to realise their potential, have their contributions recognised and grow in their own way.

To me, the role of women in higher education extends beyond imparting knowledge and fulfilling professional responsibilities. It also involves building connections, sharing experiences and nurturing a positive collective spirit. Through the work I do every day, I hope to help foster an environment where everyone can find opportunities for growth and work together towards common goals.