Following the success of the 2024 Toyota’s International lecture on Digital Transformation, which attracted a large number of students, the University of Economics and Law, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UEL), was once again honored to welcome Toyota Motor Corporation from Japan, for a series of international lectures held on March 13 and 14, 2025.

With the goal of expanding the project’s impact to the ASEAN region, UEL continued our collaboration with “Japanese automotive giant” in organizing the 2025 seminar in Vietnam. Responding to the enthusiastic reception and expectations from UEL students in the previous year, this year’s program was extended into a two-day series of international lectures, focusing on the application of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the automotive industry.

The keynote speakers, Mr. Shunji Miyahara, Project Manger, and Mr. Toshi Kaneko, Project Coordinator, both shared practical insights into leveraging technology and data processing to optimize business operations, enhance customer experience, and build sustainable competitive advantages.

Left to right: Mr. Shunji Miyahara (Left) and Mr. Toshi Kaneko (Right)

Beyond theoretical presentations, the lecture featured a dynamic experiential area right on campus, showcasing Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies. Especially noteworthy was Toyota’s display of their latest car models, equipped with cutting-edge technologies, offering UEL students hands-on opportunities to explore the convergence of innovation and product development.

Virtual Reality Technology (VR)

Augmented Reality Technology (AR)

“In this digital era, we believe the younger generation will become the main users of our products. That’s why I want to bring this project closer to Gen Z - to lead trends and adapt our technologies in ways that best suit the next generation. That is exactly the goal of this seminar,” shared Mr. Miyahara.

UEL students exploring integrated automotive technology

At the tech experience area, students had the chance to interact with advanced devices such as VR headsets, eye-tracking systems, DEEM facial recognition technology for customer demographic analysis, and even a priority-based content ranking system for e-magazines. Each experience offered a unique perspective on how technology is transforming modern business models.

“Last year, I heard about the lecture from the Department of Cooperation and Development but couldn’t register in time as it was fully booked. This year, I was determined to grab a spot, and to my surprise, not only did I attend, but I also won the giveaway!” shared Nguyễn Diệp Thế Bảo, Batch 23’s student with excitement.

More than just a bridge between students and enterprises, the seminar also reflects UEL’s commitment to practical, experience-based education—where knowledge connects with technology, creativity, and global integration. UEL aspires to continue organizing more internationally oriented programs in the near future, empowering students to stay ahead of global trends and thrive in the era of digital transformation.