25 years of RMIT Vietnam: A legacy shaped by its people

From its beginnings in 2000 as Vietnam’s first fully foreign university, RMIT Vietnam has grown into a vibrant, multi-campus institution with over 1,300 staff and 12,000 students. But behind every achievement, innovation, and student success story are the individuals who have made it all possible.

“From our earliest days, we have believed that investing in our staff through meaningful work, professional development, and a supportive culture is key to creating lasting impact,” said Professor Scott Thompson-Whiteside, Pro Vice-Chancellor and General Director of RMIT Vietnam.

That belief has translated into a workplace culture built on care, collaboration, and purpose. Staff across all departments – from academic teams to student services, HR to facilities – have contributed not only to the University’s growth, but to its soul.

In the recent ‘Your Stories, Our Legacy’ project marking the University’s 25^th anniversary, Dr Nguyen Ngoc Quynh Anh, Program Manager for Psychology, reflected on her time at RMIT as a journey of human connection.

“At RMIT, I’ve learnt that the most profound transformations often begin with the smallest gestures,” she shared. “A conversation that runs longer than scheduled because someone finally feels safe enough to share. An email sent at just the right moment with just the right words. A piece of candy quietly slipped into my hand during a hectic day – these moments create waves of hope.”

For Ms Huynh Thi Tuyet Trinh from the Talent Acquisition team, the connection between staff and student success is clear.

“Every candidate we help bring on board contributes to shaping a student’s journey,” she said. “We look for people who work with empathy, care, and a student-centred mindset. The staff do things more than just deliver services. They inspire confidence, resilience, and ambition in our students. That’s a legacy to be proud of.”

That legacy was recognised earlier this year when RMIT Vietnam was named one of Asia’s Best Companies to Work for by HR Asia — its fourth win since 2020. The University received high scores in areas such as culture and ethics, wellbeing, and active initiatives, reflecting the strength of its people-first approach.

One of the most meaningful initiatives introduced this year is Volunteer Leave, a new staff benefit that empowers employees to participate in community service activities. It offers up to two paid days per year for staff to participate in RMIT-organised or sponsored community service activities without using their annual leave.

To launch the initiative, RMIT Vietnam hosted its first Week of Service, where staff helped renovate a public playground in Hanoi, and donated books and set up libraries for orphanages in Ho Chi Minh City. These projects were designed with accessibility, creativity, and cultural enrichment in mind – from modular bookshelves assembled by volunteers to sensory-friendly playground features inspired by Vietnamese heritage.

Volunteer Leave is not confined to the Week of Service but available year-round. Whether it is environmental clean-ups or educational outreach, the initiative helps turn values into action together.

“Through continuous enhancements, we are elevating our total rewards package to remain ahead of regional benchmarks. Strengthening staff benefits is key to recognising the incredible efforts of our people and reflecting our commitment to their wellbeing,” said Mr Darren McKenzie, Associate Director, Rewards, Talent and Organisational Development at RMIT Vietnam.

RMIT Vietnam’s commitment to its people is also reflected in its evolving workplace policies and benefits. These include flexible working arrangements such as “Less Meeting Fridays” and co-working space support for remote working, professional development programs, and inclusive celebrations like Pride Week and Staff Recognition Awards.

As RMIT Vietnam looks to the future, it does so with deep appreciation for the people who have built its past and with confidence in the community that will carry it forward.

“At RMIT Vietnam, we have built more than just a workplace – we have built a warm and welcoming community,” said Mr McKenzie. “It’s a place where people feel they belong, where they are empowered to do meaningful work, and where collaboration leads to real impact.”

Story: Ngoc Hoang