Current priority of world energy industry is designing of Smart Energy Systems (SES) which contributes to deployment of an interdisciplinary approach integrating achievements of energy technologies and IT. Along with the technologies development, energy sector requires specialists able to meet the challenges and capable to conceive, develop and implement innovative solutions under diverse conditions. In order to satisfy the needs of Russian and Vietnamese energy sectors in engineers of new format, the project ESSENCE “Establishing smart energy system curriculum in Russian and Vietnamese universities” will be realised by the consortium consisting of 3 EU, 5 RU and 2 VN universities aimed at modernisation of existing master degree programmes in the field of electrical engineering in a way to meet the requirements and expectations of main stakeholders of the programme, in accordance with Bologna requirements and European Qualification Framework and in close cooperation with industry. The project will achieve the following results: modernised degree programmes will be implemented at RU and VN universities, peer-reviewed teaching and learning materials including guide on industry involvement in 3 languages (EN, RU and VN) will be developed and uploaded to project web-site for free use; partner university teachers, representatives of RU and VN HEIs will be trained in advanced teaching methodologies; partner university teachers will enhance their skills in curriculum development and subject area; contacts with industrial enterprises in RU and VN will be established for their deeper involvement into educational process and enhanced job placement of programme graduates; agreements on academic mobility between CM will be signed. The project will benefit multiple target groups on different levels during the project life-time and beyond: current and prospective students, staff of participating universities, higher educational society, and industry.