Vietnam; the intersection of growth, technology and culture

From 18 to 23 January 2026, participants of Nyenrode Business University’s Impact MBA took part in the Global Immersion Program in Vietnam, hosted by VinUniversity in Hanoi. The week-long program combined academic reflection, company visits and cultural immersion, offering students first-hand insight into one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and fast-growing economies.

Exploring Vietnam’s economic transformation

Vietnam proved to be a powerful learning environment for Impact MBA participants. Throughout the Global Immersion Program, students explored how geopolitical developments, digital transformation and sustainability considerations shape business decisions in an emerging market. The program began with a company visit to VinaTech, a technology firm specializing in eco-friendly energy solutions such as supercapacitors and fuel cell materials. Through an in-depth presentation and factory tour, students gained insight into how innovation and sustainability are embedded in Vietnam’s industrial landscape.

Later that day, participants visited VinUniversity, where senior leadership introduced the broader context of Vietnam, Vingroup and VinUni. This academic partnership laid the foundation for a week of exchange, reflection and collaboration between Dutch and Vietnamese faculty and MBA students. During the week, the group was also welcomed at the private residence of the Dutch Ambassador to Vietnam, Kees van Baar, for an evening dinner. The visit provided students with valuable insights into diplomacy, international cooperation and the evolving relationship between the Netherlands and Vietnam, placing their business learning within a broader geopolitical context.

From geopolitics to artificial intelligence

Across the week, Impact MBA participants attended a series of lectures that connected academic theory to real-world challenges. Key sessions focused on:

• The geopolitical landscape of Vietnam and related business opportunities
• Digital transformation and artificial intelligence, highlighting the growing impact of technology on Vietnam’s organizations and society
• Vietnamese culture and history, providing essential context for leadership and decision-making in Southeast Asia

Daily reflection moments, facilitated by Nyenrode faculty, allowed students to translate observations into leadership insights and intercultural perspectives, strengthening their understanding of how business operates across different cultural and economic contexts.

Inside global value chains

A central element of the Global Immersion Program was exposure to large-scale international operations. During a visit to the VinFast Manufacturing Factory in Hai Phong, students experienced firsthand how Vietnam is positioning itself in the global electric vehicle industry. With high levels of automation and a strong sustainability ambition, VinFast illustrated how innovation and scalability come together in modern manufacturing. Additional visits to the Deep C Industrial Zone and Damen Song Cam Shipyard offered further insight into Vietnam’s role within global supply chains, port-oriented industrial development and international joint ventures. These experiences deepened students’ understanding of foreign investment, operational excellence and cross-cultural collaboration.

Leadership, hospitality and experience design

Beyond industry and technology, the program also emphasized leadership and experiential learning. At VinUniversity, students took part in a hands-on cooking class followed by a shared lunch, reinforcing the importance of collaboration, culture and learning through experience. A company visit to the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi provided a different perspective on leadership within the hospitality industry. Students were welcomed by General Manager George Koumendakos, who shared insights into managing one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic luxury hotels. The visit also included a private tour of the historic bunker beneath the hotel, offering a glimpse into the building’s role during the Vietnam War and highlighting how history, culture and hospitality intersect in this landmark location.

Learning for impact

The Global Immersion Program concluded with student presentations and a closing ceremony, bringing together insights from academia, industry and culture. For the Impact MBA participants, the week in Vietnam proved to be far more than an international study trip. It became a meaningful learning journey that strengthened global awareness, leadership reflection and impact-driven thinking. Beyond the academic and professional insights, the week also created lasting personal connections. Through shared experiences - from company visits and lectures to cultural activities and conversations over dinner - friendships deepened, bonds were strengthened and memories were made that will stay with the group long after the program ended. By immersing themselves in Vietnam’s fast-evolving economy and vibrant culture, students returned to the Netherlands with fresh perspectives, expanded international networks and a deeper understanding of how business can contribute to responsible and sustainable transformation worldwide.