In its pursuit of excellence in training, scientific research, and international integration, Dong Nai Technology University (DNTU) continues to reach new milestones by partnering with prestigious global scholars.

Most recently, Prof. Charl de Villiers—a world-renowned scholar in the field of Accounting and academic research - officially accepted his role of Honorary Dean of the Faculty of Economics at DNTU.

This appointment is not only a significant milestone for the Faculty of Economics but also a clear testament to DNTU’s commitment to building an international-standard university environment, emphasizing scientific research and global academic connectivity.

A Global Leader Joins DNTU Leadership

Prof. Charl de Villiers currently serves as a Professor at the University of Auckland (New Zealand) and is one of the most influential figures in international accounting research. His academic profile is exceptional:

• Top 2% of the world’s most cited scientists (according to Stanford University).

• Top 100 global Accounting scholars.

• Over 500 international research works, including more than 120 Q1 journal articles.

• Over 20,000 scientific citations with an H-index of 66.

• Inductee of the APIRA and CSEAR Hall of Fame.

The collaboration with such a high-profile scholar highlights DNTU’s growing reputation and attractiveness within the international academic community.

Prof. Charl de Villiers

“Vietnam: A Land of Research Potential”

Sharing his reasons for joining DNTU, Prof. de Villiers praised the ambition and dynamic potential of Vietnamese researchers, particularly the faculty members at DNTU.

"I want to help my colleagues find the motivation to improve their research skills and international publication records, so that knowledge can bring broader benefits to society. Vietnam is a nation of dynamic people; they only need the right guidance to unlock their research potential on the international stage."

For Prof. de Villiers, this role is more than an honorary title; it is an opportunity to mentor, consult, and expand academic networks for DNTU’s faculty and Ph.D. candidates. He emphasized that for a university to elevate its global standing, scientific research—specifically publication in reputable peer-reviewed international journals—is key.

He also highlighted the importance of integrating into the global academic community through:

• Scientific conferences

• Global research networks

• Transnational academic collaborations

• Co-authorship with international researchers

Accelerating Internationalization Strategy

In a competitive higher education landscape, attracting world-class scholars is more than a matter of prestige; it reflects a university’s vision and long-term development capacity.

Prof. de Villiers noted: "Publishing in prestigious peer-reviewed international journals is the most important factor in achieving global recognition." In his capacity as Honorary Dean, he will focus on:

• Promoting rigorous, high-impact academic research.

• Integrating DNTU into the global research community.

• Enhancing international publication quality and frequency.

• Providing direct feedback and research methodology workshops for faculty.

Redefining Research Quality at DNTU

Addressing the difference between a "good" and an "average" research paper, Prof. de Villiers emphasized the value of the research question:

"A strong study must ask a question that is important to society but has no clear answer yet. Furthermore, the analysis must be rigorous, and the presentation—especially the introduction—must be persuasive."

DNTU is evolving beyond traditional teaching toward an applied-research-integration university model. The university has consistently invested in high-quality faculty, modern learning environments, and international projects such as GREENSEA (funded by the European Commission via ERASMUS+).

A Message to DNTU Faculty and Students

Professor de Villiers concluded with an inspiring message: High-quality research is achievable if built on a solid foundation and a serious, methodical approach.

"It is not just about the idea; it is about understanding academic standards and persevering through a professional methodology. When these factors are maintained consistently, positive results and sustainable academic value will follow naturally."

This partnership serves as a powerful catalyst, driving DNTU toward regional and global academic standards in this new era of development.

COMMUNICATIONS & EVENTS DEPARTMENT