In a university's development journey, connecting with internationally influential scholars is not only a milestone in academic cooperation but also a powerful driving force for the development of scientific research, postgraduate training, and international publication.

Dong Nai Technology University (DNTU) conferring the title of Professor Charl Johannes de Villiers upon Honorary Professor is an important step in the internationalization strategy, while also opening up many opportunities for lecturers, graduate students, and PhD candidates to access world research standards.

A Leading Scholar in Accounting and Sustainable Development

Professor Charl Johannes de Villiers is currently a Professor of Accounting at the University of Auckland (New Zealand). He also holds several academic positions at major universities and is known as one of the influential experts in the fields of Sustainability Accounting, Integrated Reporting, corporate governance, and management accounting.

Over more than four decades of academic work, Professor de Villiers has published hundreds of research works, served as an editor for many prestigious international journals, and supervised and examined numerous PhD candidates at universities around the world. According to academic statistics, he is among the world's top 2% most influential scientists in his field of expertise.

In 2026, he was also awarded the title of Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) by the Government of New Zealand, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to accounting and his promotion of transparency and accountability through scientific research.

A Scientist's Value Does Not Lie in Publication Count Alone

What defines Professor Charl de Villiers is not only his research achievements but also the academic philosophy he pursues.

For many years, his research has focused on the question of how accounting and corporate reporting systems can help create a more transparent, more sustainable economy that benefits society. His work has helped advance the development of sustainability reporting and corporate governance standards in many countries.

This is also the trend that many research universities worldwide are moving toward: scientific research not just for the sake of publication, but to create a positive impact on the community.

Opportunities for DNTU Faculty and Students

Professor Charl Johannes de Villiers accompanying DNTU as Honorary Professor carries significance beyond a symbolic title.

This is an opportunity for the University to gradually:

• Improve research and international publication capacity for faculty.
• Connect with a network of scientists and universities worldwide.
• Develop research groups according to international standards.
• Support graduate students and PhD candidates in accessing modern research methods.
• Promote international cooperation programs, conferences, and research projects.

For postgraduate students, the presence of internationally reputable scholars also helps create a dynamic academic environment where learners have more opportunities to access new research trends and improve their capacity for international integration.

Towards a Modern Research Ecosystem

As higher education undergoes strong transformation, research capacity and international cooperation have become important factors in affirming a university's standing.

Conferring the title of Honorary Professor upon Professor Charl Johannes de Villiers reflects DNTU's commitment to building an open academic environment, strengthening connections with leading scholars worldwide, and promoting a culture of high-quality research.

Each international cooperation not only brings new research projects but also helps spread academic thinking, inspiring the generation of lecturers, graduate students, and PhD candidates on their journey to create sustainable value for the community and society.