Improving the Quality of Human Resources at Private Universities in the Mekong Delta – Vietnam
Abstract
The quality of human resources at private universities in the Mekong Delta is pivotal to the region’s socio-economic development and the success of its higher education system. Despite notable growth, these institutions face underqualified faculty, limited professional development, and insufficient industry partnerships, which hinder their ability to meet the demands of a competitive job market. This paper adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research techniques to explore the key issues affecting human resource quality at private universities. Through surveys and interviews with faculty members, administrators, and industry stakeholders, the study gathers insights into current challenges and potential areas for improvement. Additionally, the research analyzes secondary data from policy documents, institutional reports, and case studies of successful models from other regions and countries. The findings emphasize the necessity of comprehensive faculty development programs, including ongoing professional training, research opportunities, and competitive compensation to attract and retain qualified educators. The study also underscores the importance of aligning academic programs with industry needs through enhanced collaboration between universities and businesses. Furthermore, government support in the form of policy reforms, funding, and quality assurance measures is deemed essential to create parity between public and private institutions. Moreover, the research highlights the need for digital transformation at private universities to address the rising demand for online and hybrid learning models. By leveraging a robust methodological framework, this research provides actionable strategies for private universities in the Mekong Delta to strengthen their human resource capabilities and produce a skilled workforce that supports regional and national development.