Finnish education promotes the training of a generation of intelligent technology experts.

As traditional IT reveals its limitations in keeping pace with the technological changes of the 4.0 era, smart IT – with its applications of AI, big data, IoT, computer networks, and cybersecurity – becomes an inevitable trend, demanding a workforce that is creative and adaptable. To meet this urgent need, the University of Metropolitan (Finland) and FPT University are collaborating on the Finland Metropolia Vietnam international joint program, training intelligent IT professionals to apply new technologies and solve practical problems.

Báo Tiền Phong•15/12/2025

Finnish educational philosophy – a foundation for innovative thinking and application.

In the context of globalization, higher education should not only focus on imparting knowledge but also promote innovation, technology application, and the development of practical skills for learners. Finland has realized this philosophy, rising to become the world's second-highest ranked education system in terms of quality (Legatum 2023). The country is also a leading model for technology and innovation, ranking 7th in the Global Innovation Index (GII 2024) and 3rd in the EU Digital Integration Index (EU DESI).

Metropolia University – Finland's largest University of Applied Sciences – emphasizes the role of innovation and sustainable development for people as central to its strategy until 2030.

Metropolia University - Finland's largest University of Applied Sciences (Karamalmi Campus - IT and Industrial Management)

That strategy has prompted Metropolia University to expand international cooperation to share its applied training model, including with Vietnam. The Finland Metropolia Vietnam program is an international undergraduate training collaboration in smart IT between Metropolia University (Finland) and FPT University/FPT Group, aiming to train human resources for advanced digital solutions.

The program combines academic learning and practical application, encouraging students to develop independent thinking, creativity, and the ability to apply technology to solve real-world problems.

Ms. Maija Seppälä, Chargé d'affaires ad interim and Counsellor of the Finnish Embassy in Vietnam, emphasized: “With this program, Vietnamese students will have access to advanced education that prioritizes innovation and is learner-centered – especially in fields such as smart IT and digitalization. This is an important foundation for developing high-quality human resources for Vietnam, Finland, and the world.”

Finland Metropolia Vietnam - a smart IT workforce training solution for the digital age.

The Smart IT program at Finland Metropolia Vietnam aims to develop high-quality human resources in key areas of digital transformation, including AI, big data, IoT, computer networks, and cybersecurity.

From their first year, students learn using a Project-Based Learning model, with each semester consisting of a real-world project supported directly by the FPT ecosystem and international partners of Metropolia University (Finland). This helps students develop creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and early access to new technologies, while also providing guidance for in-depth internships at major technology companies, enhancing their job prospects upon graduation.

Practical learning activities for students in the Finland Metropolia Vietnam Smart Information Technology program.

During their studies, students undertake practical and socially responsible projects, guided by three strategic themes of the University of Metropolia, Finland, based on the application of smart IT: Clean and Sustainable Solutions, Smart and Innovative Cities, and Future Health & Well-being. These themes are linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 carbon neutrality target.

Juha Lappalainen, Director of Innovation at Metropolia University in Finland, stated: “Metropolia students have brought fresh ideas and perspectives to the challenge we posed. We ourselves had never come up with such innovative solutions and interpretations.”

Finland's innovation platform provides Vietnamese students with opportunities to work in Vietnam and globally.

Students at Finland Metropolia Vietnam are equipped with the skills to master cutting-edge core technologies. Simultaneously, the curriculum integrates foundational knowledge from leading international technology certifications such as AWS, CCNA, and CEH, enabling students not only to obtain internationally recognized qualifications but also to possess practical skills according to global standards. This creates an environment where technology serves humanity and learners are empowered to innovate.

Students learn in an environment that values creativity, equality, and sustainability; they are trained to become global citizens, adapting to multicultural ecosystems and the rapid pace of technological change. Upon completion of the program, students receive an internationally recognized degree awarded by the University of Metropolitan, accepted globally.

sinh-vien-find-land-metropolia-vietnam-hoc-tap-trong-moi-truong-doi-moi-sang-tao.jpg — Students at Finland Metropolia Vietnam study and develop in an environment that is creative, equitable, and values ideas for practical application.

Mr. Tran Huu Cong – Deputy Director of Global Product Technical Services at FPT Software, commented: “This model seamlessly combines theory, practice, internships, and application right in the classroom, while also supporting students in gaining practical experience at businesses. Furthermore, the collaboration between businesses and schools helps students readily apply their knowledge, bridging the gap between training and practical needs.”

According to Mr. Cong, this training model is a suitable choice in the context of Vietnam's efforts to promote digital transformation and its need for high-quality human resources ready to take on high-value positions in the technology ecosystem.

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