EQuest raises $120mln from KKR

The EQuest Education Corporation has announced the successful mobilization of $120 million, including loans and equity from existing investor KKR, sourced from the Global Impact Fund. The funds will be used to invest in and upgrade the Canada International School System (CISS) in Ho Chi Minh City and expand the College and University system, particularly the campus areas of the Broward Vietnam School System in Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City.

“This investment will make CIS the financially strongest international K-12 school system in Vietnam,” said Ms. Tham My Linh, CEO of the CIS System. “With a stable long-term financial source, CIS will not have to compromise the highest educational standards for short-term benefits. This will instill confidence in parents seeking a comprehensive international education environment for their children.”

The new funding will be used to upgrade facilities, recruit leading sports coaches, and attract excellent teachers to the CIS system. It will also go to establishing campuses for Broward Vietnam’s four-year Bachelor’s program in Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City.

On this occasion, the EQuest Education Corporation also announced the appointment of Ms. Dam Bich Thuy, Founding Chairwoman of Fulbright University Vietnam, as a member of the independent Board of Directors, effective from May 15. Ms. Thuy has held numerous senior management positions in the fields of finance, banking, and education.

In addition to her role as a member of the Board of Directors, she also brings years of rich experience to EQuest in building high-quality universities.