KLU expands Southeast Asian presence with focus on sustainable logistics in Vietnam

The Kühne Logistics University (KLU), a leading institution in logistics and supply chain management based in Hamburg, Germany, is expanding its reach in Southeast Asia, with a strong emphasis on Vietnam. Known for its forward-thinking approach to education, KLU is not only focused on offering high-quality programs but also on advancing sustainable development in the region. Its efforts align with the global push towards greener economies, making Vietnam an ideal location for its Southeast Asia campus.

Prominent role at GEFE 2024

At the Green Economy Forum & Exhibition (GEFE) 2024, KLU took center stage as the main educational partner. GEFE is a critical platform that encourages collaboration between European and Vietnamese businesses, government entities, and international organizations, all working towards sustainable economic solutions. Professor Andreas Kaplan, President of KLU, shared how GEFE allowed the University to showcase its research and teaching expertise in sustainability while building stronger ties with the Vietnamese business and academic communities.

He noted that GEFE also provided KLU with the opportunity to engage with leaders and stakeholders in Vietnam’s growing green economy. The University’s participation reinforced its leadership in sustainable logistics education and opened the door to future collaboration. He emphasized that KLU’s involvement is not only about expanding its network but also contributing to the country’s efforts to combat climate change and create sustainable economic policies.

Commitment to Vietnam’s future

KLU’s decision to establish a campus in Vietnam is part of a broader strategy to support the country’s rapid economic growth and its pivotal role in global logistics. Vietnam’s booming logistics sector, driven by its increasing integration into global supply chains, makes it an ideal location for KLU’s Southeast Asia operations. Professor Kaplan highlighted that the University’s mission is to contribute to local capacity building rather than extracting talent for Europe or Germany. This local focus ensures that the knowledge and skills developed through KLU’s programs directly benefit Vietnam and its neighboring countries.

In line with this, KLU is launching a Master’s program in Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management in Vietnam. One of the most highly-regarded in Germany, this program will give Vietnamese students access to a world-class education without having to leave Vietnam. The goal is to equip students with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to thrive in the logistics sector, while also earning an internationally-recognized degree that opens the door to global

Capitalizing on solid business relationships

One of KLU’s unique strengths lies in its strong relationships with major global corporations in the logistics sector, including Kühne + Nagel, Hapag Lloyd, and Lufthansa. These partnerships provide students with valuable industry connections, internships, and job opportunities, ensuring they gain practical experience alongside their academic studies. KLU integrates these relationships into its programs through guest lectures, seminars, and collaborative research projects, offering students exposure to real-world challenges in logistics and supply chain management.

This hands-on approach is central to KLU’s educational philosophy. By blending theory with practical experience, the University ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complex logistics landscape. Frequent interactions with industry professionals help students develop critical thinking skills and practical capabilities, making them highly-competitive in the job market.

Pioneering sustainability in logistics education

Sustainability is a core focus for KLU, and the University has been a leader in this area since the 1980s, when one of its professors pioneered the field of green logistics. KLU has continued to build on this legacy, integrating sustainability into all aspects of its curriculum. The University’s programs not only cover traditional logistics topics but also explore how businesses can adapt their supply chains to meet net-zero goals and reduce their environmental impact.

At GEFE 2024, KLU participated in discussions on the role of businesses and governments in addressing climate change, particularly in relation to COP25 commitments. Professor Arne Heinold, Assistant Professor of Transportation at KLU, highlighted the challenges and opportunities that Vietnam faces as it seeks to modernize its logistics sector while adopting green technologies. He pointed out that while developed countries like Germany offer valuable lessons, Vietnam has the advantage of being able to innovate and create new systems from scratch, avoiding some of the pitfalls faced by more established

Developing green skills for the future

A key theme at GEFE 2024 was the development of “green skills”, which are essential for building sustainable supply chains. Professor Heinold explained that green skills are not entirely distinct from the skills needed for efficient supply chain management. Both require analytical thinking, scenario planning, and data-driven decision-making. For example, carbon accounting, which tracks the emissions associated with a product or service, is closely related to cost accounting. By mastering these skills, students not only contribute to a more sustainable future but also enhance their overall business acumen.

He also stressed the importance of educating students and business leaders about the long-term benefits of sustainable practices. While green technologies and processes may appear more expensive at first, they often lead to greater profitability and efficiency over time. He emphasized that part of KLU’s mission in Vietnam is to demonstrate the value of these sustainable solutions to decision-makers, showing them that investing in green logistics is both environmentally and economically advantageous.

Vision for Vietnam and Southeast Asia

KLU’s Southeast Asia campus, set to be established in Ho Chi Minh City, is a key part of its strategy for sustainable development in the region. Dr. Trinh Viet Dung, Director of KLU’s Southeast Asia campus, highlighted the University’s commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering leadership skills in young professionals. Dr. Dung explained that KLU’s approach is centered on building local capacity by providing students with a solid foundation in logistics and supply chain management while also cultivating strategic thinking and leadership abilities.

One of the University’s flagship initiatives is its Student Day program, where students are tested with real-world business challenges under the mentorship of industry professionals. This practical approach helps develop both management skills and creativity, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the green economy. Dr. Dung also highlighted the summer course in Hamburg, which offers students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in KLU’s operational environment and gain deeper insights into sustainable supply chain management.

KLU’s long-term vision for Vietnam includes not only the launch of its Master’s program but also its plans to introduce English-language Bachelor’s programs in the near future. The University is also committed to collaborating on local research projects and training human resources for the region, ensuring that Vietnam and Southeast Asia are well-equipped to lead in the global logistics and supply chain sectors.