British University Vietnam (BUV) is expanding its EcoPark campus in the second phase, providing young people with more opportunities to access a prestigious British education in a world-class environment in Vietnam.
The construction of the BUV campus Phase 2 at EcoPark in Hung Yen province began in August, with an investment of $33 million, and construction is expected to be completed in early 2025.
It has invested in building a new canteen on a total floor area of 4,096 sq m, a sports complex, including basketball and badminton courts, and a new academic building. The indoor and outdoor spaces are arranged in harmony in an open, green landscape. The iconic minimalist and liberal architectural style indicative of Industry 4.0 reflects the educational approach at BUV.
In talking about the expansion, Professor Raymond Gordon, Vice-Chancellor and President of BUV, said its mission is to educate graduates who are capable of thriving in a new era of scientific, social, and technological advancement. The design of phase 2 is inextricably linked to its mission as it provides a world-class study environment for both Vietnamese and visiting international students.
It also contributes to the continued efforts of BUV to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in operational activities, such as using water and plants for interior and exterior decoration and taking advantage of natural breezes for fresh air circulation in corridor areas to minimize the use of air conditioning, etc.
“In support of the UK’s ‘A Green Future’ plan and BUV’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) plan, the design of phase 2 will contribute to our aspiration to have the first carbon-neutral university campus in Vietnam,” said Professor Gordon.
Inaugurated in 2018, the first phase of the BUV campus included multi-functional classrooms, large lecture halls, and a modern library. BUV’s educational approach focuses on creating excellent conditions for students to study and practice by investing in experiential learning spaces, including a Training Restaurant Room, a Learning Kitchen, a Computer Lab, a Motion Capture Studio, and a Photo Studio, etc., all fully equipped with modern facilities and advanced technology. Students are encouraged to discuss, explore, and make the most of the space for a better study and research experience.
One of BUV’s priorities is to create comfortable spaces for students’ self-study and leisure needs, so a large part of the campus area is devoted to group discussion rooms, self-study, and 24/7 classrooms. After study hours, BUV students can also access multiple recreational services such as the cafeteria, sports courts, and fitness center, etc.
Revolving around three distinctive elements - Water, Forest and Gathering Space, which respectively represent Knowledge, Student Growth, and Community Spirit - architecturally-distinct buildings are strategically positioned around the campus perimeter, with the central fountain area as the University square for socializing and communal activities. The overall campus architecture promotes and encourages learning, discovery and creativity, personal development, and network building.