OVERVIEW
On the morning of February 17, 2025, the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the transfer program between Saigon Business School (SBS) and Arts University Bournemouth (AUB), UK, was solemnly held at the SBS campus. This milestone marks the beginning of an extensive collaboration between the two institutions in education, training, and the development of high-quality human resources in the creative industries.
ATTENDEES
From Saigon Business School (SBS):
The ceremony was honored by the presence of:
- Mr. Hoang Van Cuong – Executive Director
- Ms. Nguyen Thi Truc Dao – Deputy Director of Training
- SBS faculty members and students
In his speech, Mr. Hoang Van Cuong emphasized that this partnership with AUB will unlock significant opportunities for students passionate about design, creativity, and the arts. He highlighted that the transfer program to the UK will not only broaden career prospects but also provide students with access to world-class education.
From Arts University Bournemouth (AUB):
SBS was privileged to welcome:
- Ms. Claire McIntyre – Director of International Development
- Ms. Dan Meyer – Head of International Development
- Professor Xavier Pick – In-Country Global Academic Representative for Asia
During her speech, Ms. Claire McIntyre expressed her pride in AUB’s dynamic learning environment, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and pioneering programs in design, arts, filmmaking, and media. With over 4,100 students currently enrolled, AUB is among the UK’s leading art universities, offering Vietnamese students unparalleled opportunities for global academic and professional growth.
From Our Partner Organization:
The event was also graced by:
- Ms. Oanh Doan – Deputy Director of Duc Anh A&T Study Abroad Consultancy
With over 24 years of experience in study abroad consultancy, Duc Anh A&T is committed to supporting SBS students in visa applications and study abroad procedures, ensuring a seamless transition to AUB.
ABOUT ARTS UNIVERSITY BOURNEMOUTH (AUB)
Founded in 1883, AUB is located in Poole, one of the most picturesque natural destinations in the UK, renowned for its stunning gardens, scenic beaches, lush forests, and the Jurassic Coast—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, Bournemouth is also one of Europe’s fastest-growing hubs for creative and digital industries, generating over 7,500 jobs and contributing more than £340 million to the UK economy.
AUB has earned prestigious educational rankings:
- Awarded Silver and Gold ratings in the Teaching Excellence Framework (2017).
- Rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted since 2018.
- Ranked in the Top 10 of the Complete University Guide UK 2025.
At AUB, students are immersed in a vibrant creative environment from day one, surrounded by a dynamic artistic community that fosters innovation and limitless creativity.
CREATIVE THINKING WORKSHOP WITH PROFESSOR XAVIER PICK
A highlight of the event was the Creative Thinking Workshop led by Professor Xavier Pick. Through his renowned Sketchbook methodology, which he carries everywhere, he demonstrated how to find inspiration in everyday life and transform ordinary materials into extraordinary creative ideas.
SBS students were particularly captivated by the fascinating story behind the Starbucks logo design, an exemplary case of intelligent and distinctive brand identity creation. Professor Pick emphasized the importance of Sketchbooks as a tool for conceptual development, personal storytelling, and capturing everyday moments that could evolve into future creative projects or business ideas.
CONCLUSION
The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding between SBS and AUB marks a significant step in expanding international study opportunities for the SBS student community, including Vietnamese and international students from over 10 countries. It also underscores the strong commitment of both institutions to nurturing high-quality talent in the creative industries.
With the support of esteemed partners like AUB and Duc Anh A&T, SBS students can confidently embark on their academic journey and career development in the UK’s advanced educational landscape. This partnership also paves the way for any aspiring student seeking a transformative learning experience in the UK, with boundless career opportunities on a global scale.
