GIS speaks the language of excellence

Do you think it is an adventurous decision to invest in a new facility during the economic downturn?

We have a long term view of the educational development in Vietnam and would not be discouraged by temporary challenging global macroeconomic environments. We believe that this country, with its hardworking people who show such eagerness in learning, will have a great and prosperous future which will also attract sustainable foreign investment.

The decision to invest in these new spacious premises and facilities is part of our development plan towards a large and attractive international school.

We need to have a reasonable basis to meet the teaching and learning needs of both the teachers and students of the school. This will take place in accordance with international standards, as well as contribute to the development and integration of Vietnamese education.

Our new facility includes a campus in Thao Dien area, District 2 – home to a large community of foreigners working and living in Ho Chi Minh City, and it is within convenient reach of other districts. The campus consists of three buildings, designed on the idea of harmony between the natural environment and an educational village, with each building having different functions.

How do you assess the potential of educational investment in Vietnam?

We have found that investment in education is certainly not just about infrastructure, but also a matter of our people, and the concept of greatest value is sustainable development. Moreover, investment in education helps us share with others the good relationships of the people who are able to support each other in work and in life.

Personally, based on an experience of having lived in Vietnam for the last 15 years, I see Vietnam  as a country with great potential and a bright future. Vietnam seems to be a country on the move with its people eager to learn and progress, and that is why we plan to expand our school operations in Vietnam, also beyond Ho Chi Minh City.

GIS very much values its good cooperation with the relevant authorities, and will continue to work towards making GIS, and future schools attractive for Vietnamese families also. The German language along with English will open further opportunities to study at German and Swiss universities, without giving up the option to study at universities around the world where instruction is in English.

What differentiates GIS’ education models with other international schools in operations in the second city?

This is the fourth year of operation for GIS and we are still a relatively new international school here in Vietnam. We are able to draw on the expertise from our partner ‘Nobel Education Networks’ and are advised by Prof. Guenter Boos, who has successfully developed the German European School in Singapore (where the German – English bi-lingual curriculum is regarded very highly).

We are inspired by the motto “Give the children roots and wings”, as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe once said. Children should recognise their national and cultural roots, whilst at the same time be prepared to spread their wings in today’s and tomorrow’s international world, thus becoming truly global citizens.