DEVELOPING RESILIENT HUMAN CAPITAL THROUGH ENGLISH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES (ESP): A STUDY ON THE CAREER ORIENTATION OF ENGLISH MAJORS IN VIETNAM’S LOGISTICS SECTOR
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62985/j.huit_ojs.vol26.no3E.586Từ khóa:
Human capital, social inclusion, English for logistics, career orientation, English for specific purposes (ESP).Tóm tắt
As Vietnam is becoming more integrated into the global supply chain, the demand for high-quality human capital in the logistics sector has become critical. Projections suggest that by 2030, Vietnam will require approximately 200,000 highly qualified workers; however, only an estimated 4% of the current workforce demonstrates proficiency in professional English. The primary purpose of this study is to explore the role of specialised education in promoting social inclusion, particularly by enabling English language students, traditionally regarded as “non-technical” candidates, to transition into the promising and dynamic logistics industry. A mixed-methods approach is employed, utilising survey data from Business English students at the Vietnam Aviation Academy (VAA) who completed an “English for Logistics” course. Both quantitative and open-ended qualitative responses indicate a significant change in student perceptions: initially, many perceived logistics as a “dry and technical” discipline; through the lens of English for Specific Purposes (ESP), however, they redefined it as a “dynamic and essential” field. Key findings indicate that mastery of industry-specific terminology, such as Incoterms and international shipping documentation, substantially increases students' confidence and their readiness for a career in logistics. Respondents identified explicit professional pathways, including positions such as freight forwarders, logistics coordinators, and documentation staff. The study finds that specialised ESP curricula are fundamental to developing a resilient workforce, ensuring that graduates acquire the linguistic and professional competencies needed for efficient integration into global value chains in the digital era.
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