Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – August 4, 2026 – As the construction industry continues to evolve amid rapid technological advancement, innovation, and the growing demand for sustainable development, stronger collaboration between industry and academia has become increasingly important in preparing the next generation of highly skilled professionals.
With this shared vision, Pebsteel and the Ho Chi Minh City University of Architecture (UAH) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the 2026–2030 period, marking a new chapter in their partnership to advance education, applied research, and talent development for Vietnam’s construction industry.
Marking a new milestone in the partnership between Pebsteel and UAH, strengthening the link between academia and industry while fostering high-quality talent for the construction sector.
Strengthening Industry – Academia Collaboration
Under the agreement, Pebsteel and UAH will jointly implement a wide range of initiatives, including technical seminars, industrial internship programs, factory visits, applied research projects, knowledge-sharing activities, and career development programs. Through these initiatives, students will gain valuable industry exposure, strengthen their practical skills, and better prepare for the evolving demands of the construction sector.
Dr. Hoang Bac An, Vice Rector of the University of Architecture Ho Chi Minh City, and Mr. Sami Kteily, Executive Chairman, represent the two parties at the partnership signing ceremony.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Hoang Bac An, Vice Rector of the Ho Chi Minh City University of Architecture, emphasized that the partnership with Pebsteel would strengthen the connection between academia and industry while creating more opportunities for students to learn, gain practical experience, and develop their careers. He noted that the collaboration would also help ensure academic programs remain closely aligned with the industry’s changing needs.
Dr. Hoang Bac An shared:
“This marks the first comprehensive partnership between Pebsteel and the Ho Chi Minh City University of Architecture. With Pebsteel’s extensive experience and international reputation, we are confident this collaboration will create significant value for both the University and our students. By combining our respective strengths, we aim to bridge academic learning with industry practice while fostering innovation in design, research, and engineering.”
Dr. Hoang Bac An, Vice Rector of the University of Architecture Ho Chi Minh City, delivers remarks at the signing ceremony.
Representing Pebsteel, Mr. Sami Kteily, Executive Chairman, reaffirmed that investing in education has always been one of the company’s long-term strategic priorities. He highlighted Vietnam’s strong talent pool, particularly in engineering and technical disciplines, and reaffirmed Pebsteel’s commitment to providing students with opportunities to experience a professional working environment, gain practical knowledge, and develop their capabilities before entering the workforce.
Reflecting on his own journey, Mr. Sami Kteily shared his personal belief in the transformative power of education:
“I have always believed in education. Vietnamese students are exceptionally talented and have every opportunity to succeed on the global stage. Today’s signing is not simply a continuation of our relationship—it marks the beginning of a stronger, long-term partnership. Together with UAH, we hope to create greater opportunities for students while making meaningful contributions to Vietnam’s industrial and economic development.”
Mr. Sami Kteily, Executive Chairman, affirmed that investing in education has always been one of Pebsteel’s long-term development priorities.
Expanding Collaboration in Education and Applied Research
Beyond internship and training programs, both parties agreed to expand cooperation in applied research, curriculum development, and professional capacity building.
During the meeting, representatives from UAH emphasized the increasingly important role of industry participation in higher education. They noted that closer collaboration with leading companies such as Pebsteel will help ensure academic programs remain relevant to industry needs while creating new opportunities for applied research, knowledge exchange, and innovation.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Truong Quang Thanh, Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering at the University of Architecture Ho Chi Minh City, discusses the role of businesses in connecting education with industry practice, advancing applied research, and developing high-quality talent.
Dr. Tran Van Phuc, Head of the Academic Affairs Office at the University of Architecture Ho Chi Minh City, expressed his expectation that the partnership with Pebsteel will expand learning and career development opportunities for students.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Huu Anh Tuan, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering at UAH, shared practical collaboration initiatives to further strengthen the partnership between academia and industry.
The two organizations also discussed future collaboration in specialized training programs, technical seminars, industrial visits, internship opportunities, applied research initiatives, and professional development activities for both lecturers and students. Together, these initiatives will strengthen the connection between academia, industry, and future professionals, contributing to the development of a highly skilled workforce for the construction sector.
Partnering for Community Impact and Sustainable Development
In addition to academic cooperation, Pebsteel and UAH also explored opportunities to expand collaboration in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. University representatives introduced several impactful community projects led by faculty members and students, including the restoration of historical portraits of fallen heroes, mural painting projects at schools, and various volunteer activities. Both parties expressed their shared aspiration to work together on future community initiatives that create lasting social value while promoting education and sustainable development.
Beyond academic initiatives, Pebsteel and UAH agreed to expand their collaboration through corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, working together to create sustainable value for the community.
For Pebsteel, developing human capital remains one of the core pillars of its sustainability strategy. The company believes that close collaboration between industry and educational institutions is essential to nurturing future engineers, architects, and construction professionals equipped with technical expertise, innovative thinking, and the adaptability required to thrive in an increasingly dynamic industry.
The signing of the 2026–2030 Memorandum of Understanding represents more than a new milestone in the partnership between Pebsteel and the Ho Chi Minh City University of Architecture. It reflects a shared commitment to connecting education with industry, developing future talent, and building a stronger foundation for a more innovative, sustainable, and globally competitive construction industry.
View the full event gallery here: Pebsteel & the University of Architecture Ho Chi Minh City Partnership Signing Ceremony
