Educators from ASEAN countries are sitting down at a regional seminar in Hanoi to exchange experiences and discuss co-operation to develop the region’s education to international standards.

The two-day seminar, jointly held by the National Education Council, the Ministry of Education and Training, and the Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute (ASLI), opened on November 22.

It saw the presence of leaders from ASEAN countries’ Education Ministries, rectors from 120 local universities and colleges and 20 foreign universities, and representatives of Embassies of ASEAN countries, China , Japan , the Republic of Korea , Germany , and international organisations.

Addressing the seminar, Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Thien Nhan spoke of challenges for both Vietnam and other ASEAN countries in developing high-skilled and low-cost labour resources and ensuring education quality despite an investment shortage.

He emphasised training in accordance with the society’s demands as a strategic solution to improve education quality and efficiency. He detailed Vietnam’s measures, including encouraging businesses to participate in and assist the training, and setting up training establishments at businesses.

Topics for discussion include globalisation and its effects on education in East Asia, the private sector’s role in tertiary education development in Southeast Asia , and the co-operation between universities in the region.

On November 23, the delegates are expected to approve a joint statement named “The Thang Long Statement” on ASEAN education co-operation and integration. (VNA)