The University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) consistently prioritizes gender equality and the creation of equitable opportunities for women in education and professional development. To ensure that staff, employees, and students from all backgrounds, particularly those from marginalised or underrepresented groups, receive equal support and fair treatment, UEH has implemented the Policy on Anti-Discrimination, Anti-Harassment, and Support for Underrepresented Groups. This policy strictly prohibits any form of gender discrimination, harassment, or exploitation in accordance with the Law on Gender Equality and the Labour Code of Vietnam. It establishes a diverse, inclusive, and respectful academic community, upholding the principles of non-discrimination and zero tolerance for harassment under the UEH Code of Conduct.

The Department of Student Affairs (DSA) serves as the specialized unit responsible for implementing the UEH Counseling and Support System on Sexual Harassment. DSA plays a central role in providing personalized mentoring and psychological support, particularly for female students at higher risk of gender-based violence, sexual harassment, or emotional distress. Through individual consultations, legal education, and skill-building sessions, DSA equips students with knowledge of human rights and gender equality, effective communication skills, and the ability to recognize and protect themselves from potential risks. These efforts empower female students to maintain dignity, confidence, and resilience in both academic and social contexts.

In addition, through mentoring programs, scholarships, skill-based educational events, and various empowerment activities, UEH has built a safe, inclusive academic environment that encourages female students to unlock their potential.

Regarding mentoring and counseling, UEH has organized numerous workshops and communication series to equip female students with essential knowledge and coping skills, enabling them to enhance self-protection and personal development. In 2024, the Department of Student Affairs (DSA) provided counseling and support to 01 female student who was forced to withdraw and faced disciplinary risks; offered psychological counseling for four serious cases involving stress, anxiety disorders caused by relationship difficulties, threats, and other mental health issues; and provided reintegration counseling for one isolated female student.

In terms of scholarships, UEH implements various policies to support scholarships for female students in difficult circumstances and disadvantaged groups (details available in internal records). These programs aim to reduce financial inequality and create learning opportunities for underprivileged female students. In 2024, UEH awarded 3,066 scholarships to female students, accounting for 70% of more than 4,300 total scholarships granted to UEH students.

As for other activities, UEH organized 08 workshops, implemented a communication campaign with 06 articles on gender equality, and held 03 related competitions. In addition, UEH hosted an art exhibition featuring female artists, an Ao Dai Week, and gatherings to celebrate International Women’s Day and Vietnamese Women’s Day. These initiatives help spread the spirit of gender equality, honor the role of women, and inspire female students and staff to confidently assert themselves. The programs attracted thousands of students, of whom more than 50% were female, with clear evidence such as Equal Voice 2024, which gathered over 2,000 participants – most of them women.

These activities not only targeted female students but also directly supported female lecturers, staff, and employees at UEH, thereby spreading messages and promoting gender equality within both the academic community and society at large.

Activity Form Target Group Description Results / Impact

Mentoring programs, scholarships and other activities and events to advise and support female students at UEH
Scholarship Policy Supporting Female Students (2024) Scholarship All UEH students Every year, UEH allocates and distributes VND 70 billion for various scholarship programs available to all students. The selection criteria for each scholarship are based on financial conditions, academic performance, conduct, and difficult circumstances, with priority given to disadvantaged groups to ensure continued learning until graduation.

Scholarship categories in 2024 include:

• The Study Support Scholarship for Full-time and Part-time Undergraduate Students (two rounds per year)

• The Emergency Support Scholarship for Yagi Typhoon victims

• Companion Sponsorship Scholarships from businesses and sponsoring partners

• Merit-based and Admission Scholarships (two rounds per year)

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 In 2024, 3,066 scholarships were awarded to female students, accounting for 70% of more than 4,300 total scholarships granted to UEH students. Distribution of female students receiving scholarships in 2024: 

• The Study Support Scholarships: 684 female students

• The Study Support Scholarships for Part-time Program: 22 female students

• The Emergency Support Scholarship (Yagi Typhoon): 14 female students

• Companion Sponsorship Scholarship from businesses and sponsoring partners: 339 female recipients with a total value of VND 4,841,896,316

• Merit-based and Admission Scholarships: 2,007 female recipients with a total value of VND 32,754,397,332
UEH Mentoring Mentoring UEH students  UEH Mentoring is an annual program organized to help students gain a proper understanding of their future career paths, listen to practical experiences from mentors, and acquire essential knowledge and skills for personal development. Mentees also receive guidance and support in various aspects of life, including emotional issues, family relationships, mental well-being, and job searching.

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Students participate in activities under the UEH Mentoring program

 In 2024, the program engaged a large number of mentees, of which 50% were female students.

• Helped students resolve difficulties in both personal life and career orientation.

• Enabled participants to develop professional communication skills and build meaningful social and professional connections for future careers.
Awareness communication series to enhance gender equality knowledge, provide information channels, and support students facing risks in study and university life (with focus on female students) Mentoring (Counseling/Support)

Other (Preventive Education)

 All UEH learners across different levels and study programs (including both female and male students who may experience sexual harassment) Article: “Run Ahead of the Darkness: Learning How to Protect Yourself from Sexual Harassment” — offering legal knowledge and self-protection skills, while introducing UEH’s process for receiving and supporting students who experience harassment.
  • Helping students understand their rights and the laws related to sexual harassment, identify risks, and know how to report incidents to protect themselves.
  • Students can contact the UEH Department of Student Affairs (DSA) for counseling and support to overcome psychological distress.
Article: “Gender Equality in Sports: A Fair Playground for All?” — addressing stereotypes in sports and honoring the achievements of female athletes, encouraging participation and confidence.
  • Students gain a more accurate perspective on gender in sports.
  • Promoting and advancing gender equality in the field of sports.
Article: “Do You Really Understand Feminism?” — providing insights into feminism, gender rights, and equality under the law.
  • Providing knowledge about women’s rights and gender equality in society.
  • Fostering an equitable, safe, and respectful learning and working environment for everyone.
  • Providing an information channel for students whenever they need counseling and support in urgent situations.
Others (Support for Financial, Communication Awareness) Article: “Pink Tax – The Hidden Cost for Women” – raising awareness of the unfair price disparity in gendered products and suggesting practical ways to reduce financial burdens for women.
  • Empowered UEHers to proactively manage spending and reduce unnecessary “pink tax” expenses.
  • Increased community awareness of gender-based price disparities and promoted gender equality in consumer behavior.
Talk with Gen Z: Tips for Future Orientation Journey Mentoring (Life skills, study, and personal development counseling) UEH students UEH organized a series of mentoring talk shows connecting lecturers, career counselors, and outstanding female students. The program provided participants with tools and skills to set academic goals, choose suitable majors, and manage school-related emotions. Female mentors shared their personal development journeys and how they balanced study and life.

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Participants listened attentively to the speakers’ sharing
  • Nearly 300 students attended in person, of which more than 50% were female students.
  • The program enhanced awareness of career orientation and mental health among students.
Talkshow: “Gen Z: Live Joyfully, Study Smart.” Mentoring (Life skills, study, and personal development counseling) UEH students The mentoring sessions guided students (including female students) to explore themselves, build confidence and self-esteem, and maintain a positive lifestyle (LIVE JOYFULLY). The program also provided smart learning techniques and career guidance for sustainable personal growth.

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 The activity attracted more than 300 students, promoted self-confidence and gender equality, and offered support and counseling for students in both study and daily life.
Equal Voice 2024 competition – Promoting Gender Equality  Mentoring (Counseling/Support)

Others (Awareness education, Communication, Awards)

 UEH students  The competition was organized by the UEH Board of Dormitory Management, UEH Student Union, and UEH Committee for the Advancement of Women. It aimed to promote legal education and raise awareness of gender equality, while empowering women and girls. The contest included various activities such as the workshop “GenZ – GenderFree” and other communication projects. Students also received psychological counseling and support from experts during and after the program.

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Workshop: “GenZ – GenderFree”

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Equal Voice 2024 competition – Promoting Gender Equality

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EqualVoice 2024 Competition Champion
  • Attracting more than 2,016 student participants, of which over 60% were female.
  • Spreading the values of gender equality, helping students overcome gender stereotypes in both academic environment and daily life.
  • Students were provided with psychological counseling and assistance from experts throughout the program.
Celebration Program for Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20): “Mua Dien Vy” (Iris Season) Others (Appreciation, Recognition, Spreading love) Women in general (being honored and appreciated) Organized by the UEH Youth Union – Banking Faculty, the program aimed to honor women’s achievements and acknowledge their significant contributions. Activities included a visit to the Southern Women’s Museum and a community appreciation journey, where students presented gifts and warm wishes to women working quietly behind the scenes such as janitors and local shopkeepers.

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  • 40 students participated in the activity.
  • The program inspired motivation and encouragement, supporting continuous efforts toward gender equality. It also spread a heartfelt message of gratitude and respect for women’s role in life. 
Talkshow: “Sexual Harassment – Stay Silent or Speak Up?” Mentoring (Psychological Counseling/Support)

Others (Preventive Education)

 UEH students (particularly supporting victims, with women being the most vulnerable group)  This in-depth talkshow discussed sexual harassment, related laws, and the concept of consent. The program equipped students with practical knowledge and skills for preventing sexual harassment. Participants were encouraged to speak up as a way of self-protection, and had the chance to share personal stories and receive counseling from experts.

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  • Attracted nearly 300 student participants, including 120 female students (40%).
  • UEH is recognized as a pioneering university in providing excellent care and support for students, with clear procedures, strict disciplinary measures, and protection mechanisms for victims of sexual harassment.
  • The program provided consultation and psychological support services, helping students address issues they may encounter during their studies.
Gender Equality Training Program: “Where is the ‘Gender’ Line?” Others (Awareness Education, Breaking Stereotypes) UEH students  The program featured a Master’s degree holder in Development Studies specializing in Gender as the keynote speaker. Students had the opportunity to update their knowledge on gender, gender equality, and related issues in academic, workplace, and cultural environments, helping them recognize existing gender stereotypes.

Throughout the session, students openly shared personal experiences of gender discrimination, receiving direct consultation and support from both the speaker and the organizing committee.

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  • Promoted critical thinking and a progressive understanding of gender equality.
  • Helped students understand correctly and act appropriately, providing them with knowledge to identify and address gender inequality.
  • The speaker offered personalized advice and continuous support, assisting students in finding effective solutions to their issues.
Talkshow: “Gen Z – Do What You LOVE or LOVE What You Do” Mentoring / Other Provision UEH students The activity was organized by the Department of Student Affairs (DSA) through social media platforms, aiming to promote proactivity and sustainable future orientation among students. Female mentors, UEH alumni, and lecturers participated in online mentoring sessions, sharing their experiences in choosing majors, studying effectively, and developing career paths.

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  • Attracted over 300 student participants, with more than 30% female students.
  • The workshop helped students gain a clearer understanding of their passions, interests, and strengths, thereby orienting their future careers more effectively.
Programs, activities, and events for female lecturers, staff, and employees at UEH
Commemorative Meeting for Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20) Other (Recognition, Health Care) & Mentoring (Thematic Report) Female officials and employees of UEH The program honored and expressed gratitude for women’s contributions to the university. UEH’s Director emphasized that UEH highly values equality, especially gender equality. Dr. Bui Thi Hong Nhu delivered a seminar “Modern Women: Living Joyfully, Healthily, and Happily”, sharing practical knowledge about physical and mental health care and maintaining a balanced lifestyle between work and personal life.

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  • Nearly 200 female officials and employees attended the event.
  • The activity affirmed the significant role and position of women in socio-economic development.
Series of Research Studies, Community Training, and Policy Recommendations on Gender/Women Academic Research, Knowledge-Sharing Podcast Senior managers, female CEOs, board members, and policymakers [Podcast] “Business Innovation in ASEAN Countries: Examining the Impact of Managerial Experience, Practices, and the Role of Female CEOs” – conducted by UEH University. The study analyzed how managerial experience and leadership practices influence corporate innovation in 07 ASEAN economies, emphasizing the positive impact of female CEOs.
  • The research suggests policy implications that encourage appointing female CEOs, even in science and technology sectors, and ensure equal pay, bonuses, and benefits between male and female executives.
  • The findings help break stereotypes about women’s ability to succeed in innovation-driven industries. 
Community Training / Participatory Discussion Method Local authorities, social organizations, and residents of Cu Lao Dung District, Soc Trang Province GS4 Infra Research Project: Community capacity building training session in Cu Lao Dung district, Soc Trang Province: Organizing a training session entitled “Empowering Cu Lao Dung: GEDSI-Driven Infrastructure & Community Resilience.”  Participants joined group discussions, taking on roles of vulnerable and marginalized groups (especially women and children) to identify barriers in accessing public infrastructure.

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Groups of local officials and residents discuss together

 Participants gained a deeper understanding of the importance of irrigation infrastructure, community engagement, and gender inclusion. The activity empowered locals to contribute ideas for improving local infrastructure plans.
Policy and Education/Training Recommendations Women in Ho Chi Minh City, Party and government bodies, and mass organizations (especially the Women’s Union) [Podcast] “Promoting the Role of Women in Building a Cultural Family in Ho Chi Minh City – According to Ho Chi Minh’s Ideology (Episode 1)”. The research proposed several policy and educational solutions to enhance women’s roles in society, including:

  • Improving women’s educational and professional qualifications.
  • Diversifying training and capacity-building programs through various formats.
  • Opening vocational training courses for female workers.
  • Protecting and promoting gender equality and women’s rights.

The study also recommended that the Women’s Union organize mutual economic support programs among women and expand cooperation with banks and employment-support funds to strengthen women’s economic empowerment. 

 Women account for 51.3% of Ho Chi Minh City’s population. Their active participation in economic and production activities has reduced dependence on men and enhanced their social and familial status.
Seminar “Modern Women: Live Happily, Live Healthily, Live Joyfully” Thematic Talk, sharing experiences, and providing physical and mental health counseling. Female officials and employees of UEH Organized by the UEH Committee for the Advancement of Women and the UEH Union, the event aimed to honor and affirm the value and position of women. Dr. Bui Thi Hong Nhu (Tu Du Hospital) presented a talk on physical and mental health care and maintaining work–life balance.

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Seminar “Modern Women: Living Joyfully, Healthily, and Happily”
  • Nearly 200 female officials and staff attended the October 20, 2024 Commemoration Ceremony.
  • The activity empowered women, promoted self-care and confidence, and spread the message of harmony between career and personal life.
Vinh Long Experience Activity – Celebrating International Women’s Day March 8 Other (Appreciation, Motivation, Networking, Community Support) Female staff, employees, and their families at UEH – Vĩnh Long Campus The event featured team-building activities, gift exchanges, and appreciation moments, recognizing and encouraging the continuous efforts and contributions of female staff.

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 Strengthened solidarity and connection, brought joy and motivation, and encouraged women to excel in their work and family roles.

 
“Ao Dai Week” 2024 – Promoting Vietnamese Cultural Heritage Staff and employees of UEH Vinh Long donated traditional Ao Dai to the community, preserving and sharing Vietnamese heritage.

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 The initiative carried practical meaning, contributing to community support while promoting the beauty of Vietnamese traditional culture. It also fostered pride and responsibility among women in preserving and celebrating Vietnam’s cultural identity.

In 2024, UEH’s activities demonstrated a remarkable increase in both quantity and quality in implementing programs to support female students. With a large number of participants, UEH affirmed that the total number of female students receiving mentoring, personal counseling, or participating in gender equality education programs reached or exceeded 10% of the university’s total female student population. This reflects UEH’s strong commitment to ensuring equal learning opportunities and developing leadership capacity for female students in particular, and all students in general.

While in 2023 UEH mainly focused on awareness-raising events about gender equality, the year 2024 marked a significant expansion toward mentoring, inspiration, and empowerment programs for female students. These initiatives not only created a space for career guidance and mentoring but also encouraged holistic development of intellectual and mental well-being. Furthermore, UEH diversified its implementation methods by combining in-person mentoring with digital communication platforms, thereby reaching thousands of female students both within and beyond the university.

Notably, 2024 marked a turning point as UEH began measuring impact through specific indicators such as participation rates, online engagement, and positive feedback from learners — moving beyond the descriptive reporting used in 2023. The scope of participants also expanded to include female students, lecturers, staff, and administrators at UEH.

Overall, 2024 represented a transformative year for UEH: shifting from general awareness-raising to building a systematic, practical, and scalable support network for women. This progress highlights UEH’s sustained efforts to foster a fair, safe, and respectful learning and working environment for everyone.

Open related links: 

1. December 4, 2024 – Anti-discrimination policy – https://future.ueh.edu.vn/en/uncategorized-vi/10-6-4-chinh-sach-chong-phan-biet-doi-xu/ 

2. UEH Culture – https://ueh.edu.vn/en/about-us/ueh-culture 

3. Department of Student Affairs – UEH Counseling and Support System – https://nhaphoc.ueh.edu.vn/dinh-huong-sau-nhap-hoc/ho-tro-va-cham-soc/tu-van/ 

4. August 15, 2024 – UEH’s Comprehensive Scholarship Policy: 70 Billion VND Scholarships for Students of All Modes of Training – https://ueh.edu.vn/en/news/uehs-comprehensive-scholarship-policy-70-billion-vnd-scholarships-for-students-of-all-modes-of-training-72290 

5. September 13, 2024 – UEH Implementing Financial Aid Programs for Students in Northern Provinces Affected by Storm No. 3 (YAGI) in 2024 – https://future.ueh.edu.vn/en/uncategorized/ueh-implementing-financial-aid-programs-for-students-in-northern-provinces-affected-by-storm-no-3-yagi-in-2024/ 

6. February 07, 2025 – Looking back on a year of accompanying learners at UEH: A journey of comprehensive care and support, towards Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion   – https://ueh.edu.vn/en/news/looking-back-on-a-year-of-accompanying-learners-at-ueh-a-journey-of-comprehensive-care-and-support-towards-diversity-equity-and-inclusion-73361 

7. September 18, 2024 – UEH Mentoring: Invitation to become a mentor – https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=537744615310636&id=100072253053629&set=a.213786314373136

8. July 15, 2024 – Article: “Run Ahead of the Darkness: Learning How to Protect Yourself from Sexual Harassment” – https://ueh.edu.vn/cuoc-song-ueh/tin-tuc/chay-len-truoc-bong-toi-hoc-cach-bao-ve-ban-than-truoc-quay-roi-tinh-duc-72106 

9. February 28, 2024 – Gender equity in sport: A fair playground for all? – https://ueh.edu.vn/en/news/gender-equity-in-sport-a-fair-playground-for-all-71450 

10. March 07, 2024 – Article: “Do You Really Understand Feminism?” – https://ueh.edu.vn/cuoc-song-ueh/tin-tuc/ban-da-hieu-dung-ve-nu-quyen-71486 

11. April 17, 2024 – Pink tax – an additional expense for women – https://ueh.edu.vn/en/news/pink-tax-an-additional-expense-for-women-71696 

12. October 29, 2024 – Talk with Gen Z: Tips for Future Orientation Journey – https://ueh.edu.vn/tuyen-sinh/tro-chuyen-cung-gen-z-bi-kip-cho-hanh-trinh-dinh-huong-tuong-lai-72729 

13. September 24, 2024 – Talkshow: “Gen Z: Live Joyfully, Study Smart.” – https://www.ueh.edu.vn/cuoc-song-ueh/tin-tuc/gen-z-song-joy-hoc-gioi-72526 

14. August 26, 2024 – Equal Voice 2024 competition – Promoting Gender Equality – https://ueh.edu.vn/cuoc-song-ueh/tin-tuc/cuoc-thi-equalvoice-2024-promoting-gender-equality-xoa-bo-rao-can-xay-dung-the-gioi-cong-bang-va-co-hoi-deu-danh-cho-moi-gioi-tinh-72323 

15. November 27, 2024 – Celebration Program for Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20): “Mua Dien Vy” (Iris Season) – https://youth.ueh.edu.vn/tin-tuc/chuong-trinh-chao-mung-ngay-phu-nu-viet-nam-20-10-khoa-ngan-hang-2024-mua-dien-vy/ 

16. November 26, 2024 – Talkshow: “Sexual Harassment – Stay Silent or Speak Up?” – https://ueh.edu.vn/cuoc-song-ueh/tin-tuc/quay-roi-tinh-duc-im-lang-hay-len-tieng-72998

17. March 20, 2025 – Exploring “boundaries” – What do UEH students say about gender equality? – https://dsa.ueh.edu.vn/tin-tuc/kham-pha-gioi-han-sinh-vien-ueh-noi-gi-ve-binh-dang-gioi/ 

18. October 31, 2024 – Talkshow: “Gen Z – Do What You LOVE or LOVE What You Do” – https://www.facebook.com/UEH.DSADSA/posts/pfbid07Bk9MELV3fKentVX6DzWqGJVUeHKPpK3JHzDH76wyCtTfgwBaN8pLfvB6Kh8TKzgl?locale=vi_VN  

19. October 19, 2024 – Meeting to celebrate the 94th anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam Women’s Union – https://future.ueh.edu.vn/tin-tuc-su-kien/tin-tuc/hop-mat-ky-niem-94-nam-ngay-thanh-lap-hoi-lien-hiep-phu-nu-viet-nam/ 

20. November 27, 2024 – [Podcast] “Business Innovation in ASEAN Countries: Examining the Impact of Managerial Experience, Practices, and the Role of Female CEOs” – conducted by UEH University – https://future.ueh.edu.vn/chi-tiet-knowlege/podcast-hoat-dong-doi-moi-cua-doanh-nghiep-tai-cac-nuoc-asean-xem-xet-tac-dong-cua-kinh-nghiem-quan-ly-thuc-tien-quan-ly-va-vai-tro-dieu-hanh-cua-nu-ceo/ 

21. December 04, 2024 – GS4 Infra Research Project: Community capacity building training session in Cu Lao Dung district – https://ueh.edu.vn/en/news/gs4-infra-research-project-community-capacity-building-training-session-in-cu-lao-dung-district-on-december-2-2024-73134 

22. October 27, 2024 – [Podcast] “Promoting the Role of Women in Building a Cultural Family in Ho Chi Minh City – According to Ho Chi Minh’s Ideology (Episode 1)” – https://future.ueh.edu.vn/chi-tiet-knowlege/podcast-phat-huy-vai-tro-cua-phu-nu-o-thanh-pho-ho-chi-minh-trong-xay-dung-gia-dinh-van-hoa-theo-tu-tuong-ho-chi-minh-ky-1/ 

23. January 22, 2025 – 8 outstanding activities of UEH Union in 2024 – https://congdoan.ueh.edu.vn/8-hoat-dong-noi-bat-cua-cong-doan-ueh-trong-nam-2024/ 

24. March 11, 2024 – UEH Vinh Long organized a series of activities to celebrate the 114th anniversary of International Women’s Day (March 8, 1910 – March 8, 2024) and respond to “Ao Dai Week” in 2024 – https://www.ueh.edu.vn/ueh-mekong/cuoc-song-ueh-mekong/ueh-phan-hieu-vinh-long-to-chuc-chuoi-hoat-dong-ky-niem-114-nam-ngay-quoc-te-phu-nu-08-3-1910-08-3-2024-va-huong-ung-tuan-le-ao-dai-nam-2024-71522 

25. January 28, 2025 – UEH Labor Union: Fostering Community Bonds and Promoting Sustainable Values – https://ueh.edu.vn/en/news/ueh-labor-union-fostering-community-bonds-and-promoting-sustainable-values-73362