18-08-2026
The University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT) launched its 2026 training program on “Communication Skills in Higher Education” on the morning of August 4. The program aims to strengthen lecturers’ communication, counseling, and student support skills, contributing to a positive, supportive, and learner-centered higher education environment.The training program attracted strong participation from UIT lecturersSpeaking at the opening session, Assoc. Prof. Vu Duc Lung, Vice Rector of UIT, emphasized the important role of communication skills in both teaching and student support. As higher education continues to evolve, lecturers are expected not only to impart knowledge, skills, professional attitudes, and practical competencies, but also to accompany students throughout their academic journey.At times, a simple conversation, genuine listening, timely advice, or words of encouragement can help students navigate difficulties in their studies and personal lives. Such support can provide the motivation they need to move forward, positively influencing both their academic progress and personal development at UIT.Assoc. Prof. Vu Duc Lung emphasizes the importance of communication skills in teaching and student supportThe training was facilitated by Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Van Tuong, Deputy Director of the Institute for Social Sciences and Humanities Research and Head of the Educational Psychology Program at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City. Drawing on his expertise, the program provided UIT lecturers with specialized knowledge and practical communication skills relevant to the higher education environment.During the training, Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Van Tuong focused on equipping lecturers with the ability to identify early signs that students may require psychological support, based on changes in academic performance, emotions, behavior, and social relationships. The program also introduced a risk-level classification approach to help lecturers determine when initial support may be appropriate and when coordination with relevant professional units is necessary to ensure student safety and well-being.Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Van Tuong delivers a session on “Communication Skills in Higher Education”One of the program’s key components was developing safe and effective communication skills through the 5T model — Thấy (Recognize), Tiếp cận (Approach), Thấu hiểu (Understand), Thẩm định (Assess), and Tiếp nối (Follow Up). Lecturers were guided on how to initiate conversations with genuine concern, listen before offering advice, and maintain appropriate professional boundaries.The program also devoted significant time to scenario-based practice. Participants worked through situations involving students experiencing psychological difficulties, complaints regarding grades, communication with parents, and coordination among university units using the SBAR framework. These practical exercises were designed to help lecturers apply the skills directly to their teaching and student support responsibilities.Through the training program, UIT continues to demonstrate its commitment to the comprehensive professional development of its academic staff, ensuring that lecturers are equipped not only with strong disciplinary expertise but also with the communication, counseling, and interpersonal skills needed to effectively support students throughout their university experience.The initiative also forms part of UIT’s broader efforts to foster a safe, supportive, and student-centered educational environment, strengthen connections between lecturers and students, and enhance the quality of education as the University responds to the evolving demands of higher education.