Newsletter FSPPM Summer 2021

Dear cherished friends,

Since day one of FETP project (the predecessor of FSPPM), we decided that our curriculum must be grounded on Vietnam's real context and learning is not bounded within classroom walls. In early April, MPP 2022 cohort (in both concentrations LM and PA) jointly went on their first fieldtrip outside the campus to the central coast of Vietnam. We understand good public policies should be embedded in local understanding and the trip offered great opportunities for future leaders and policy makers to validate their presumptions relating to the growth dynamics of central provinces (i.e., Hue and Chu Lai).

Through conversations with government and business leaders in the localities, MPP students understood the outcomes of one policy can be affected to certain extent by its implementation settings and for a policy to bring out desired effects, concerted efforts among various stakeholders are required. On the other hand, during these conversations, local governments can tap into the pool of innovative capabilities of MPP students for cutting-edge solutions to address problems facing their provinces.

Amidst the grave conditions of Covid-19 pandemic in HCMC, our faculty once again pushed forward the physical boundaries of classrooms by moving policy seminars to virtual platforms through which knowledge can reach broader audience more safely. The flagship panel discussion on Covid-19 vaccination strategies hosted by FSPPM senior lecturers and a public health expert, Dr. Nguyen Thu Anh, set the ground for insightful discussion concerning immunization measures to protect community well- being. Other virtual seminars on Mekong Delta development and digital expo initiatives have been well received by audience for aspiring policy research.

Starting from early May, MPP 2023 admission cycles has begun and there have been online coaching sessions and demo classes in which candidates can explore the program and receive customized advice from admission team. Stay tuned for more exciting events for a successful application to become a Fulbrighter!

We wish you great health and strength in this challenging time!

Sincerely,

Editorial Board

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