Phung Ngoc Hiep, a student majoring in Financial Technology and Digital Business at International School – Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU-IS), is the only student from VNU-IS to qualify for the Finals of the International Olympiad on Financial Security (IOFS 2026), held in Krasnoyarsk, Russian Federation.
This marks the third consecutive year that VNU-IS students have been selected by VNU to participate in, advance to the Finals of, and win awards at this prestigious, world-class academic competition.
Phung Ngoc Hiep, the sole representative of VNU-IS advancing to the Finals of the International Olympiad on Financial Security (IOFS 2026).
The International Olympiad on Financial Security is an annual academic competition organised by the Russian Federation, aimed at advancing science and technology in the field of financial security. The competition provides a platform for students, researchers, and international experts to exchange experiences and demonstrate their professional competence in a global setting.
This year’s competition brought together 700 contestants from more than 45 countries. VNU sent a delegation of 10 students, among whom Phung Ngoc Hiep was the sole representative of VNU-IS to compete and advance to the Finals.
Reflecting on his journey in Krasnoyarsk, Ngoc Hiep said the competition enabled students to gain practical knowledge of financial security, fraud prevention, and anti-money laundering, while deepening their understanding of the challenges facing financial systems today.

The delegation representing Vietnam National University, Hanoi at the prestigious global competition in Krasnoyarsk, Russian Federation.
Beyond the main competition, Ngoc Hiep took part in a range of academic and networking activities held as part of the event. He had the opportunity to meet the Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, attend panel discussions led by professors and experts from various countries on artificial intelligence (AI) and financial security, and participate in workshops offering information on study and scholarship opportunities in Russia.
During the competition, Ngoc Hiep also had the chance to connect with students from over 40 countries, learn about different cultures, and experience international teamwork and communication. According to Ngoc Hiep, the trip also left a lasting impression of national solidarity, as the Vietnamese delegation members consistently supported one another and worked together to bring the image of Vietnam closer to the international community.

Moments of international exchange, teamwork, and cultural connection during IOFS 2026.
“This was truly an invaluable experience that broadened my knowledge and perspectives, boosted my confidence, brought me many new friends, and gave me greater motivation to continue learning and developing myself in the future,”
The fact that VNU-IS students have participated in and reached the Finals of the International Olympiad on Financial Security for multiple years reflects the strong commitment of VNU-IS students to engaging in international academic competitions. For its part, VNU-IS has consistently supported such activities, creating opportunities for students to gain experience, learn, and prove their abilities in a global environment.



