RMIT contributed insights on the future of education at IECEE 2026

The International Conference on Education Cooperation in the Digital Era and the Education & EdTech Exhibition (IECEE 2026) on 8 and 9 October 2026 attracted delegates from over 40 countries and territories, alongside representatives from educational institutions, international organisations and leading technology companies.

Through presentations and exhibition activities, RMIT University leaders shared international perspectives on education cooperation, workforce development and the application of technology in teaching and learning.

In addition, the event provided an opportunity for the University to showcase the initiatives it has implemented in Vietnam to support educators, learners and the broader education ecosystem amid ongoing digital transformation.

IECEE delegates also witnessed a memorandum of understanding exchange ceremony between RMIT Vietnam and the Ministry of Education and Training. The memorandum sets out areas for collaboration in education internationalisation and capacity building. It also provides a framework for RMIT to support the implementation of the national project on making English as a second language (ESL) across all schools in Vietnam.

At the conference, Professor Scott Thompson-Whiteside, Pro Vice-Chancellor and General Director of RMIT Vietnam, presented on the evolution of internationalisation in Australian higher education and the trends shaping the next phase of global education. He highlighted the growing importance of international partnerships in education, research and innovation.

 “To create lasting impact, universities need to build deeper partnerships in education, research and innovation that deliver shared benefits for learners and society”, he said.

According to Professor Thompson-Whiteside, leading universities around the world are moving beyond a predominantly recruitment-driven model towards a more diversified, reciprocal and strategically integrated approach to global engagement. This shift creates new opportunities to strengthen research capability, develop talent and promote knowledge exchange across borders.

Meanwhile, Ms Mish Eastman, Interim Chief Operating Officer and Vice-President of RMIT University, focused on future skills and Vietnam’s competitiveness in the global economy.

Ms Eastman noted that rapid technological change is reshaping workforce requirements across almost every sector. As a result, closer collaboration between government, industry and education providers is needed to ensure learners develop skills that meet evolving workforce demands.

She said: “Developing the workforce of the future is a shared responsibility. Collaboration between government, industry and academia will help learners navigate change and contribute to long-term economic growth.”

At the exhibition, RMIT showcased a range of initiatives in education and educational technology. These included research and AI applications designed to enhance teaching and learning, as well as activities that strengthen connections between the University, industry and the broader community.

One example is the collaboration between RMIT and Vietnam’s Ministry of Education and Training since 2025 to empower educators and education administrators nationwide with AI. The program focuses on integrating AI into teaching, assessment, learning resource development and educational leadership.

After more than 25 years in Vietnam, RMIT continues to expand its contribution across education, research and workforce development. Alongside delivering internationally recognised education, the University is strengthening its focus on applied research, educational technology and partnerships with organisations in Vietnam and around the world.

Through its participation at IECEE 2026, RMIT contributed to discussions on the future of education, workforce capability and innovation. The University also reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside government agencies, businesses and education partners to support Vietnam’s development.

Story: Ngoc Hoang