Foreign Trade University - Faculty of International Education

Dear generations of staff, lecturers, students, and all individuals and organizations who have accompanied us,

30 years ago, when I first stepped into Foreign Trade University at the age of 18, I felt that this was the place where I could truly be myself, freely pursuing my passions, expressing my individuality, and sharing my emotions, whether I am happy, sad, angry, or hurt. FTU gave me the confidence and desire to explore the world in search of brilliant rays of sunshine and to devote myself wholeheartedly to my dreams. That is why, for me, FTU has always felt like home - a place to return to.

30 years later, in my new role as the President of Foreign Trade University, I carry with me the aspiration to accompany the university’s academic board in implementing a development strategy to position FTU among the top universities in Asia - a place that values academic freedom, encourages creative research, and promotes educational models that nurture critical thinking and the capacity to navigate ever-changing contexts. We strive to overcome stereotypes in education, to foster dreams and ambitions, and to contribute to positive impact and sustainable development.

I truly have been moved by the stories shared by our students about how they no longer feel inferior of their backgrounds, about the experiences they never thought they could have, about the confidence they’ve gained in pursuing their dreams, and about their desire to help the vulnerable after joining FTU. Over time, through the simple joys shared by colleagues after class, the fulfillment of meaningful research and community programs, and the immense pride us lecturers feel as students grow and succeed, I’ve come to better understand the educational ideals I aspire to pursue at FTU.

Igniting excellence, fostering innovative thinking, cultivating resilience and responsibility, embracing diversity, and enhancing harmony - these are the core values that FTU has built over its 65 years of development. At FTU, we challenge ourselves every day to confront our limitations, to share openly, and to work together toward meaningful solutions. For this reason, no matter who you are or where you come from, once you arrive at FTU, you will feel a strong sense of connection, openness, and inclusiveness and that you are a part of FTU.

As the first autonomous university in Vietnam’s higher education system, having faced many challenges and endured considerable hardship, we’ve learned to surpass ourselves and take bold steps forward. Therefore, the mindset of “nothing is impossible” and the motto “dare to be different to lead” have been deeply embedded in our development strategy, action plans, and educational approach. We take pride in our extensive domestic and international partnerships and remain committed to effectively implementing our cooperative programs, believing that every resource comes to us brings value. Our goal is to work with all stakeholders in the global education ecosystem to overcome unprecedented challenges and seize breakthrough innovations in a world shaped by rapid technological change and unpredictable disruptions.

With profound pride in FTU’s unique values and a strong desire to share and embrace bold ideas, forward-thinking mindsets, and breakthrough solutions, I warmly welcome generations of staff, lecturers, students, beloved parents, scientists, experts, partners, and all those who care to join us at Foreign Trade University in co-creating lasting value for our community and society.

Sincerely,

Pham Thu Huong

President of Foreign Trade University

Source: FTU Times