INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY HOSTS TRAINING WORKSHOP ON “DESIGN THINKING”
On July 31, 2024, the International University (VNU-HCM) held a training workshop on “Design Thinking” and provided practical guidance on “Designing a Green, Clean, and Sustainable International University” for over 50 staff members. The workshop was led by Mr. Michael Lee – Founder and CEO of CreBiz Factory, a South Korean enterprise.
The training workshop aimed to strengthen engagement in social and environmental responsibility activities while fostering innovative, practical ideas towards a green, clean, and sustainable International University. Through the program, staff members were equipped with knowledge on design thinking and tools to enhance their ability to tackle challenges in education and research. The event attracted over 50 participants, including leaders and specialists from various departments and centers, as well as lecturers and researchers from different faculties, who are all eager to learn and improve their understanding of design thinking.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Đinh Đức Anh Vũ, Vice President of International University, presented a thank-you letter and a gift to Mr. Michael Lee, the keynote speaker of the training workshop.
In his opening remarks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Đinh Đức Anh Vũ, Vice President of International University, shared: “Let’s consider this university, where we work, as our own home. Our commitment to building a green campus not only contributes to the university’s development but also helps us grow sustainably while creating a better working environment. The Board of Management hopes that every day, you will grow more fond of this shared home, as this is a crucial step toward achieving comprehensive and sustainable development for International University.”
Mr. Michael Lee shared his knowledge about Design Thinking with the university staff.
During the workshop, university staff were introduced to the fundamentals of “Bibimbap Design Thinking,” a concept designed by Mr. Michael Lee, focusing on user analysis, empathy, and the process of developing creative ideas. The session was lively and engaging, with Mr. Lee’s enthusiastic and humorous delivery, complemented by intriguing questions from the participants.
University staff engaged in discussions with the speaker.
Participants were divided into groups to discuss six key areas in building a “green, clean, and sustainable” International University: Energy Efficiency, Water Conservation, Waste Management, Green Spaces, Sustainable Transportation, and Education & Engagement. The staff practiced problem identification using the Point of View tool and crafted problem statements consisting of three main components: User, Need, and Insight. Each group had time for discussion, drafting, and received feedback from the speaker. In addition, the groups analyzed and reviewed existing solutions before proposing their own. Following the activity, participants gained a deeper understanding of problem analysis tools and strengthened their teamwork skills.
Group discussed Sustainable Transportation.
Group discussed Waste Management.
This training workshop is specifically aimed at implementing the 2024 Plan for Community Engagement by the Party Committee of International University, focusing on activities for the environment. Additionally, it is viewed as a contribution to UNESCO’s roadmap for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) by 2030. Integrating professional activities with social and environmental responsibility is a crucial part of the mission of International University. The institution continually creates opportunities to promote innovative and feasible ideas from staff and students to collaboratively develop International University into a green, clean, and sustainable campus.