Innovate EIU: Driving Growth through Design Thinking

After more than a month of implementation, the internal training course themed “Design Thinking for Professionals – Innovate EIU: Driving Growth through Design Thinking”, jointly organized by the Office of Administration and the Office of Community Engagement, officially concluded today (January 9). The program reflects the strong spirit of learning and innovation at Eastern International University (EIU).

The course attracted enthusiastic participation from lecturers, specialists, and staff across various departments and centers within the university. The training program was structured into two key components: a Workshop and a Project Presentation, offering participants a rich and practical learning experience.

Dr. Ngo Minh Duc, President of EIU, delivers remarks during the Project Presentation session.

Earlier, in the Workshop session, Mr. Barnabas Chiang – Enterprise Engagement Officer from the Office of Community Engagement shared essential knowledge on the topic of Design Thinking. His session covered an overview of Design Thinking, its meaning, and practical applications in problem-solving; guidance on creatively approaching real-life scenarios; and the stages of the Design Thinking process.

Throughout the training, participants engaged in interactive and practical activities that enhanced their understanding of the Design Thinking model. Through illustrative examples and group exercises, they developed problem solving skills by analyzing the actual needs of their departments and proposing creative and effective solutions.

Today (January 9), during the Project Presentation session, various departments and centers across the university took turns presenting their projects to the University’s Executive Board. These projects were based on unresolved real-life issues within each unit and proposed solutions using the Design Thinking approach. The presentations not only demonstrated a deep understanding of the root causes but also showcased creative and flexible applications of each Design Thinking phase Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test.

Units present their projects during the training session

On this occasion, the training organizers awarded certificates, commemorative medals, and prizes to outstanding teams. Specifically, the “Best Presentation” award was given to the Library, the Office of Communications, and the Office of Academic Affairs. The “Most Popular Display Product” award was presented to the Office of Financial Accounting.

Dr. Ngo Minh Duc (far left), President of EIU, presents awards to the winning teams

Units showcase their projects during the presentation session

The success of this training program underscores EIU’s strong commitment to investing in human resource development and fostering a positive learning and working environment. By organizing internal training on Design Thinking, EIU not only equips its faculty, specialists, and staff with practical tools but also contributes to cultivating a culture of creativity and adaptability throughout the university. This, in turn, enhances work efficiency and builds a dynamic, innovation-driven workplace paving the way for EIU’s sustainable growth in the years to come./.