On July 31, 2024, International University (VNU-HCM) organized a training course on “Design Thinking” and provided practical guidance on “Designing and building a green, clean, and sustainable International University” for over 50 staff. The training session was conducted by Mr. Michael Lee, the Founder and CEO of CreBiz Factory Enterprise (Korea).
The training course aims to facilitate the promotion of cohesion in social and environmental responsibility activities, fostering innovative and feasible ideas to collaborate towards a green, clean, and sustainable International University. Through this training program, staff are equipped with extensive knowledge about design thinking and tools to enhance their problem-solving abilities in education and research. The program garnered the participation of over 50 leaders and experts from various departments and centers, along with lecturers and researchers from faculties and departments within the university who seek to enhance their understanding and proficiency in design thinking.
Speaking at the opening of the course, Associate Professor Dr. Dinh Duc Anh Vu, Vice President of IU, shared: “We have to consider the university where we work as our own home. Our connection and the endeavor to build a green school not only contribute to the university’s development but also aid in our sustainable development and the creation of a better working environment. The Board of Rectors hopes that every day, we will cherish this shared home more, as this is also a crucial step towards achieving the comprehensive and sustainable development of IU.”
During the training program, staff was introduced to the fundamental concepts of “Bibimbap Design Thinking” developed by Mr. Michael Lee, which involves analyzing and empathizing with beneficiaries and generating innovative ideas. The sessions were conducted in a lively and engaging atmosphere, characterized by Mr. Michael Lee’s enthusiastic and humorous insights and the learners’ intriguing questions.
Continuing the training, the learners were further divided into discussion groups focusing on six key areas in establishing a “green, clean, and sustainable” International University: Energy Efficiency, Water Conservation, Waste Management, Green Spaces, Sustainable Transportation, and Education & Engagement. Staff engaged in problem identification exercises using the Point of View tool, constructing problem identification sentences comprising three main components: User, Need, and Insight. The groups had the opportunity to deliberate, craft samples, and receive feedback and corrections from the facilitators. Furthermore, they analyzed and surveyed existing solutions to propose their own innovative ideas. By the end of the activity, the participants gained a deeper understanding of the supportive tools in the problem analysis process and fostered team spirit among themselves.
This training program is tailored to align with the 2024 Mass Mobilization Work Plan of the Party Committee of the International University, focusing on environmental initiatives. Moreover, it is viewed as a significant contribution to the realization of the UNESCO Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Roadmap to 2030. Connecting professional endeavors with social and environmental responsibility forms a pivotal aspect of the International University’s mission. The university consistently fosters opportunities to cultivate innovative and practical ideas among its staff and students, fostering collaboration to transform International University into a green, clean, and sustainable institution.