On December 31, 2025, in a solemn and dignified atmosphere, the University of the Pacific Ocean (UPO) ceremoniously held the Celebration of its 17th Anniversary (December 31, 2008 – December 31, 2025). The event was not only an opportunity to reflect on a proud development journey, but also an important occasion for the University to announce breakthrough strategies for its next stage of growth.
The ceremony was honored by the presence of People’s Teacher, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ho Thanh Phong – President of the University; the Board of Rectors; former generations of University leaders; representatives of partner agencies and enterprises; leaders of faculties and departments; along with all faculty members, staff, representatives of students, and alumni from different generations.
Speaking at the ceremony, People’s Teacher, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ho Thanh Phong emotionally recalled the history of the University’s formation and development. From its first campus on Nguyen Xien Street (formerly Vinh Phuong Commune) in 2008, through systematic investment by ACB Bank in 2013, and a strong development milestone upon joining Sovico Group in 2022, the University of the Pacific Ocean has gradually achieved the modern and well-equipped appearance it has today.
Reflecting on the journey so far, the President emphasized: “Seventeen years may not be a long period in a person’s life, but for the University, it represents an entire journey of dedication – more than 6,200 days of continuous effort to overcome challenges and pursue development by generations of faculty members, staff, and students.”
From offering only five academic programs in 2009, the University of the Pacific Ocean has now expanded to 16 undergraduate programs, including fields in which the University has strong advantages such as Artificial Intelligence, Logistics, Marketing, Law, and language studies. The human resources of the University have also grown steadily, with dedicated lecturers who consistently fulfill the mission of “teaching, scientific research, and community service.”
Vision 2030: Toward AUN and ABET International Standards
A key highlight of the anniversary celebration was the announcement of the University’s strategic development orientation for the 2025 – 2030 period. In response to the requirements for fundamental and comprehensive reform in higher education, the University of the Pacific Ocean has set its goal to become one of Vietnam’s leading universities with international standing.
Sharing this aspiration, People’s Teacher, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ho Thanh Phong affirmed the collective determination of the University: “I dream that by 2030, the University will have many programs accredited by AUN, standing on par with universities in the region… I further aspire that by 2035, the University will have its first program accredited by ABET and begin to be recognized in international rankings.”
To realize this vision, the University will focus on building an excellent faculty, modern facilities, and advanced university governance. A clear demonstration of its international integration efforts is the University’s plan to officially host the International Conference on Logistics and Supply Chain Management (ICLS 2026) in July 2026, expected to gather more than 300 leading scholars from the Asia – Pacific region.
Connecting Generations – Spreading Humanistic Values
Within the framework of the ceremony, the University officially announced the Decision on the establishment of the Provisional Executive Committee of the University of the Pacific Ocean Alumni Association. This meaningful milestone marks a stronger connection among generations of learners, fostering a united and mutually supportive community from the lecture halls to professional careers.
Sending a message to students across generations, the President quoted the renowned artist Pablo Picasso: “I am always doing what I cannot do yet, in order to learn how to do it,” thereby encouraging a spirit of commitment, creativity, and lifelong learning among young people.
The 17th Anniversary Celebration concluded with an emotional candle-blowing ceremony, symbolizing the unity and shared commitment of the University’s academic community. With a solid foundation built over the past 17 years, a clear development strategy, and a strong aspiration, the University of the Pacific Ocean is confidently stepping into its 18th year – ready to “stretch its wings” and become a vast ocean of knowledge, making meaningful contributions to Vietnam’s education sector.
As confidently affirmed by People’s Teacher, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ho Thanh Phong: “I believe that by standing united, we will unleash our collective strength like the power of the ocean and bring the very best values to society.”