In the context of Vietnam’s increasingly deep integration into the global economy, logistics has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sectors, playing a pivotal role in global supply chains. At Van Hien University, Logistics students are equipped not only with professional knowledge but also with practical skills to prepare them for the highly competitive labor market. What, then, are the essential skills that enable students to succeed in this field?
1. Systems Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Logistics comprises a series of closely interconnected activities, ranging from raw material procurement, transportation, and warehousing to the distribution of products to end consumers. Therefore, logistics professionals need systems thinking and the ability to view the entire supply chain as an integrated whole rather than focusing solely on individual components.
At Van Hien University, students develop these skills through courses involving real-world simulations, group assignments analyzing corporate supply chains, and case-study discussions. When facing challenges such as delivery delays or supply disruptions, students are trained to identify root causes and develop optimal solutions that balance cost, time, and service quality.
2. Technology and Specialized Software Skills
Modern logistics is closely associated with digital transformation. Businesses are increasingly adopting technologies such as Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, and data analytics tools to optimize their operations.
Logistics students at Van Hien University are introduced to supply chain management simulation software during their studies, enabling them to become familiar with real-world working environments before graduation. Proficiency in technology not only enhances work efficiency but also provides a significant competitive advantage when applying to large corporations and international logistics companies.
3. Foreign Language Skills
Logistics is a highly internationalized field, particularly in import-export operations and international freight forwarding. Proficiency in English, along with an additional foreign language such as Chinese or Japanese, enables students to read and understand commercial documents, communicate effectively with international partners, and stay informed about international customs regulations.
The training program at Van Hien University places emphasis on integrating English courses for logistics into the curriculum, allowing students to become familiar with specialized terminology such as Incoterms, bill of lading, and freight forwarding. This provides an essential foundation for students to confidently work in multinational environments after graduation.
4. Time Management and Ability to Work Under Pressure
In logistics, time is a critical factor. A delayed shipment can result in significant financial losses and damage to a company’s reputation. Therefore, the ability to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and remain calm when handling unexpected situations is indispensable.
Van Hien University students are regularly assigned tasks with tight deadlines that simulate the pressures of real-world logistics operations. These learning experiences help students develop resilience, improve their ability to work under pressure, and handle tasks efficiently while still at university.
5. Communication and Teamwork Skills
Logistics requires close coordination among multiple departments, including warehousing, transportation, sales, and customer service. Effective communication and teamwork therefore play a crucial role in ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
Through group projects, presentations, and extracurricular activities, Logistics students at Van Hien University have opportunities to develop their ability to communicate information clearly, listen actively, and collaborate effectively with team members. These are key factors in building high-performing teams in future corporate environments.
6. Practical Experience and Industry Connections
One of Van Hien University’s strengths is its close collaboration with businesses in the logistics, port, and import-export sectors. Students have opportunities to undertake internships, participate in corporate visits, and gain direct exposure to real-world working environments from their early years of study.
These practical experiences enable students to apply the knowledge they have acquired to specific professional tasks while simultaneously developing the soft skills mentioned above in a natural and effective manner.
Conclusion
To succeed in the dynamic yet challenging logistics industry, students need to develop not only a solid foundation of professional knowledge but also essential skills such as systems thinking, technological proficiency, foreign language competence, time management, communication, and negotiation.
With a training program that emphasizes practical learning and strong industry engagement, Van Hien University provides favorable conditions for Logistics students to develop comprehensively and become well-prepared to meet the increasingly demanding requirements of both domestic and international labor markets.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vu Ngoc Bich, Van Hien University
Nguyen Thi Thu Thao, Van Hien University