On 22 June, the VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) hosted a meeting with SAMTEC Ģ����ý Co., Ltd. to discuss strategic directions for cooperation in education, internships, and the development of high-quality human resources.

Attending the meeting on behalf of SAMTEC Ģ����ý were Mr Chung Teck Chin, General Director; Ms Jennifer Nguyen, Head of Human Resources; Ms Anh Dang, HR Supervisor; Mr Michael Bui, Head of Engineering; Mr Jonathan Long, Training Supervisor; and Ms Sam Dang, Recruitment Specialist.

Representing HCMUS were Associate Professor Trần Minh Triết, Vice-President; Associate Professor Võ Hồng Hải, Deputy Head of the Office of External Relations; Dr Bùi Trọng Tú, Dean of the Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunications; and Associate Professor Huỳnh Văn Tuấn, Dean of the Faculty of Physics and Engineering Physics.

During the session, both sides shared insights into development strategies, human resource demands, and potential opportunities for collaboration. These discussions took place against the backdrop of rapid growth in the electronics, semiconductor, and high-tech industries, which drives an increasing demand for engineers equipped with solid expertise and the agility to adapt to real-world working environments.

Associate Professor Trần Minh Triết, Vice-President, emphasised that HCMUS consistently prioritises expanding partnerships with industry to enable students to gain early exposure to manufacturing, research, and technological development. Through internships, career experiences, and professional collaboration, students are given the chance to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios whilst enhancing their capability to meet the requirements of the labour market.

The representatives from SAMTEC Ģ����ý introduced the corporate operations in developing electronic connectivity solutions, encompassing high-speed interconnect technology, cable systems, optical solutions, RF, and applications serving the electronics industry. Founded in the United States in 1976, SAMTEC operates as a global technology enterprise with a manufacturing and technical support network spanning multiple countries.

A key focus of the meeting was the Co-op Program designed for final-year students with outstanding academic records (achieving a GPA of 3.5/5 or above). According to the proposal from the company, this initiative allows students to combine academic studies with practical work at the enterprise, structured as part-time employment during the academic year and full-time placement over the summer vacation. Students participating in this scheme not only gain access to a professional working environment and accumulate practical experience but also receive support throughout the placement, alongside prospects of transitioning into permanent roles upon graduation.

Furthermore, both parties exchanged views on internship programmes, recruitment drives, career guidance activities, and talent acquisition channels tailored for engineering students, particularly within the fields of electronics–telecommunications and engineering physics.

The meeting opens up promising prospects for cooperation between HCMUS and SAMTEC Ģ����ý in aligning higher education with industry needs. This partnership creates further opportunities for students to engage with emerging technologies, experience international working environments, and prepare for professional careers whilst still at university.

Representatives from both institutions discussing collaborative frameworks for education, internships, recruitment, and university–industry links.

 

From 21 to 22 May, the Faculty of Environment at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) hosted the First Asia-Pacific Network Regional Training Workshop on Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Mercury Monitoring in PM_2.5. The initiative was implemented under the framework of the APN CRRP2025-08MY-To project, funded by the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) and led by Associate Professor Tô Thị Hiền.

The workshop brought together scientists, experts, and representatives from universities, research institutes, and scientific organisations across Ģ����ý, Japan, the United States, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Taiwan, India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Discussions focused primarily on air quality monitoring, research into emerging pollutants, and the strengthening of research collaboration within the Asia-Pacific region.

During the programme, delegates presented and discussed various specialist topics regarding the current state of research into PFAS and mercury in the atmospheric environment. Further discussions addressed methods for monitoring, sampling, and analysing PFAS in PM_2.5, alongside research trends and monitoring strategies for emerging pollutants in the Asia-Pacific region, whilst fostering the exchange of research expertise and international collaboration among member states.

Alongside academic sessions, the workshop featured laboratory tours at both the Nguyen Van Cu and Dong Hoa campuses of HCMUS. These visits served to demonstrate the analytical instrumentation, sampling procedures, and research capabilities in air quality analysis maintained by the Faculty of Environment.

Through academic exchanges and professional activities, the workshop provided a valuable platform for scientists to share research findings, exchange experiences, and discuss future collaborative directions in air quality monitoring and emerging pollutants. The event further underscores the significant role of HCMUS in environmental research, education, and academic networking within the Asia-Pacific region.

Selected photographs from the Workshop.

 

On 13 May 2026, the Faculty of Biology – Biotechnology at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) organised the seminar “Communicating with Confidence on the Globalised Campus”, featuring a sharing session by Dr Jenson J. A. Deokiesingh, Lecturer at the Centre for English Language Communication, National University of Singapore (NUS). The seminar introduced practical perspectives on academic communication and language development within international educational contexts.

As higher education becomes increasingly internationalised, academic communication skills in English are emerging as an essential requirement for students, not only in learning activities but also in research, collaboration, and international engagement. Alongside linguistic competence, students are expected to cultivate confidence, presentation skills, and professional communication styles suited to multicultural environments.

During the seminar, Dr Jenson J. A. Deokiesingh examined common challenges encountered by students when communicating and delivering presentations in English, including pressure related to pronunciation, fluency, fear of making mistakes, and concerns about judgement within international settings. According to Dr Deokiesingh, one of the greatest barriers to academic communication does not arise solely from language proficiency, but from a lack of confidence and hesitation in expressing personal viewpoints.

Dr Deokiesingh also emphasised that confident communication does not require individuals to abandon personal identity or pursue a single model of “standard English”. Rather, effective communication depends upon the ability to convey ideas clearly, establish meaningful engagement with audiences, and demonstrate academic thinking in a coherent and professional manner.

Through discussions and interactive activities, students explored the distinctions between academic writing and academic presentation; approaches to structuring content; methods for strengthening verbal expression; techniques for sustaining audience engagement; and strategies for developing a natural yet academically appropriate presentation style. Practical examples and accessible approaches encouraged students to take a more proactive role in strengthening communication skills within international environments.

Beyond introducing practical academic communication skills, the seminar encouraged students to express perspectives with greater confidence, develop self-assurance, and engage more actively within international contexts. Such initiatives contribute to the development of globally engaged learners equipped with open-minded perspectives and the adaptability required in contemporary higher education.

On 22 April, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) and the College of Technology and Design, University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (CTD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to leverage interdisciplinary strengths and enhance the connection between education, research, and application. This collaboration aims to develop technological solutions tailored to practical real-world demands.

Representing HCMUS at the signing ceremony was Associate Professor Trần Minh Triết, Vice President, alongside leaders of various academic departments. Representing CTD was Associate Professor Trịnh Thùy Anh, Vice Rector, accompanied by representatives from functional departments and affiliated research institutes.

Under the terms of the agreement, the two institutions have committed to comprehensive cooperation across three core pillars, prioritising an interdisciplinary approach grounded in practical application. Firstly, regarding educational activities, both parties will collaborate to develop specialised curricula and courses in artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, multimedia platforms, and software development. The teaching model will involve faculty members from both sides, blending the technological foundations of HCMUS with the design and user-experience expertise of CTD UEH. In game development projects, CTD shall oversee design and graphics, while HCMUS takes responsibility for programming and system development.

Joint academic initiatives, including bootcamps, hackathons, and incubation programmes, will be organised to enrich the practical experience of students. Such opportunities allow learners to engage in projects addressing real-world needs throughout their studies.

In the field of technological development, the two universities are establishing a collaborative model linked with industry partners. CTD will serve as the bridge to identify challenges from production and business sectors, while HCMUS will lead the research and development of Proof of Concepts (PoC) and Minimum Viable Products (MVP). The implementation of thematic workshops, consultancy, and technology transfer aims to translate research findings into practical applications, thereby enhancing innovation efficiency.

Concurrently, interdisciplinary research groups are being formed to focus on priority areas such as artificial intelligence and human-computer interaction. Research outputs are intended for joint publication in domestic and international scientific journals and proceedings, strengthening the research capacity and academic integration of both institutions.

Speaking at the ceremony, Associate Professor Trần Minh Triết, Vice-President of HCMUS, expressed great pleasure in the formal establishment of this partnership and affirmed his strong support for the proposed strategic directions. He noted that this relationship extends beyond academic activities to create tangible value and meaningful contributions to society. Consequently, the two parties will coordinate student activities such as academic forums, competitions, and exchanges, while promoting start-up projects and innovation for both students and staff. Furthermore, the coordination of scientific research projects at municipal and national levels, the enhancement of technology transfer to enterprises, and the development of shared laboratory systems are identified as central priorities to ensure that products of high applied value are swiftly implemented in practice.

Sharing this perspective, Associate Professor Trịnh Thùy Anh, Rector of CTD, emphasised the complementary nature and compatibility of the two institutions within a multi-disciplinary educational framework. This synergy provides a robust foundation for implementing deep-rooted collaborative activities that meet practical requirements.

Following the ceremony, the delegation from VNUHCM–University of Science toured the facilities and academic-creative spaces at the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City to exchange experience in developing advanced learning environments and innovation ecosystems.

Against the backdrop of rapid digital transformation, the demand for an interdisciplinary workforce capable of adapting to and solving practical problems has become increasingly urgent. The partnership between HCMUS and CTD is expected to foster an educational environment rooted in practice, enhancing the research capabilities and global integration of learners while contributing to the development of high-quality human resources for the digital technology sectors in this new era.

From 8 to 11 April, a delegation from VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS), led by Associate Professor Trần Minh Triết – Vice President, conducted a working visit to Tohoku University, Japan, to attend an international symposium and discuss strategic partnerships. The delegation included Associate Professor Huỳnh Văn Tuấn – Dean of Faculty of Physics – Engineering Physics, Associate Professor Nguyễn Văn Hiếu – Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Semiconductor Industry Association, and Associate Professor Vũ Thị Hạnh Thu.

During the visit, the delegation toured and surveyed advanced research facilities, including the NanoTerasu Center (a 4th-generation synchrotron radiation facility), the Semiconductor Creativity Hub, the Micro System Integration Center, and various laboratories across the Aobayama and Katahira Campuses. These state-of-the-art facilities exemplify a model of seamless integration between academic research and technological development for industrial application.

Through academic exchanges, the delegation gained insights into sophisticated equipment systems in the fields of MEMS, sensors, and semiconductor technology. Discussions were held with professors and research groups at Tohoku University to outline future collaborative directions. Both institutions agreed to promote postgraduate training programmes, co-supervise Master’s and Doctoral candidates, and coordinate the implementation of joint research projects, particularly within the framework of the NEXUS semiconductor programme supported by the Government of Japan.

A central component of the visit was a working session with Professor Hitoshi Takamura – Dean of the School of Engineering at Tohoku University, regarding collaborative training and research in MEMS and semiconductor technology. The two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), establishing a foundation for expanded educational cooperation, academic exchange, and strengthened industry links within the semiconductor circuit sector.

In addition, the delegation participated in the 2026 International Symposium on Microelectronics and Semiconductor Training and Research, hosted by Tohoku University and featuring scientists from Japan and Ģ����ý. The symposium focused on research areas such as MEMS sensors, two-dimensional materials, biosensors, VLSI circuits, and applications in biomedicine and the environment.

The visit serves to strengthen academic connections with international partners while facilitating broader cooperation with the Vietnamese doctoral research community in Japan. This occasion also provided an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of the partnership between the two institutions since 2009, thereby guiding the development of specialised research groups and promoting international cooperation and the cultivation of high-quality human resources in MEMS and semiconductor technology.

 

Source: Faculty of Physics – Engineering Physics

On 10 April 2026, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) and the Ģ����ý Institute for Advanced Study in Mathematics (VIASM) entered into a strategic partnership agreement concerning mathematics education and research. This event represents a significant milestone in strengthening the links between higher education institutions and specialised research institutes, aiming to foster an advanced academic environment that aligns with international standards.

The signing ceremony was attended by Associate Professor Trần Lê Quan, President of HCMUS; representatives from the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science; heads of functional departments; alumni of the Mathematics Talent Bachelor’s Programme; leaders of mathematics units from various universities; and the Senior Leadership Teams of specialised high schools across Ho Chi Minh City.

Representing VIASM were Associate Professor Lê Minh Hà, Managing Director; Dr Trịnh Thị Thúy Giang, Deputy Director; and members of the VIASM Scientific Council, including Professor Nguyễn Xuân Hùng and Associate Professor Trần Vũ Khanh. The event also welcomed representatives from the Ģ����ý  Innovation of Education Foundation (VIEF), the primary benefactor supporting the development of mathematics at the Institute from 2026.

The partnership is built upon the respective strengths of both institutions, focusing on the joint delivery of the Mathematics Talent Bachelor’s Programme. This curriculum has been approved by Ģ����ý National University Ho Chi Minh City and has been successfully delivered by HCMUS for over two decades. Starting from the 2026–2027 academic year, the involvement of VIASM will provide additional academic resources, expert faculty, and intensive research activities, thereby enhancing the quality of mathematical sciences education in Ģ����ý .

These collaborative efforts form part of a broader series of initiatives within the VIASM Mathematical Research Program (VMRP), funded by the Ģ����ý Innovation of Education Foundation (VIEF).

A central feature of this partnership is the introduction of the Sigma Scholarship scheme, which offers three levels of support. The premier Sigma Gold scholarship covers 100% of tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend of up to 15 million VND. To secure this prestigious award, students must succeed in a personal interview conducted by Professor Ngô Bảo Châu. The Sigma Silver scholarship provides 100% tuition coverage alongside a 7.5 million VND monthly stipend, while the Sigma Bronze scholarship covers the full tuition fees as per University regulations. Furthermore, Professor Ngô Bảo Châu and VIASM will lead a cohort of Vietnamese mathematicians from across the globe to deliver advanced and specialised lecture series for students within the programme.

In addition to financial assistance, students will be granted opportunities to attend workshops, conferences, summer schools, and internship programmes both domestically and abroad. Undergraduates will receive mentorship in scientific research and are encouraged to publish their findings in reputable academic journals. The programme also emphasises academic outreach, aiming to cultivate a generation of scholars who possess both professional excellence and social responsibility.

The agreement extends beyond student support to encompass the professional development of academic staff and the creation of scholarly resources. Initiatives include the modernisation of pedagogical methods, enhanced research supervision, the authorship of textbooks and specialised monographs, and the expansion of the teaching assistant network to ensure rigorous standards in both foundational and advanced modules.

 

Delegates discussing the collaborative aspects of undergraduate education while exploring future extensions into high school and postgraduate levels.

The partnership agreement shall remain in effect for four years. A joint steering committee will oversee the coordination of activities to ensure that the collaboration remains effective, synchronised, and sustainable. Speaking on behalf of the two organisations, Associate Professor Trần Lê Quan (President of HCMUS) and Associate Professor Lê Minh Hà (Managing Director of VIASM) affirmed that integrating education with research is an essential progression in contemporary higher education. Such synergy fosters a sophisticated academic culture and provides the high-calibre human capital necessary for the advancement of science, technology, and the knowledge economy.

The formalisation of this strategic alliance between HCMUS and VIASM does more than simply create new pathways for mathematical study and research; the partnership demonstrates a profound commitment to building a high-quality academic ecosystem that binds together education, research, and innovation. This foundation is expected to play a crucial role in developing highly skilled scientific personnel to meet the demands of national development and global integration in the coming era.

On the morning of 9 April, VNUHCM-University of Science (HCMUS) hosted a delegation from the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH) to explore collaborative opportunities in education and research.

Representing HCMUS at the meeting were Associate Professor Võ Hồng Hải, Deputy Head of the External Relations Office; Associate Professor Trần Hoàng Phương, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Chemistry; and Associate Professor Trương Lâm Sơn Hải, Lecturer within the Faculty of Chemistry.

The KITECH delegation included Mr Cho Jae Hyun, Managing Director of the Management & Support Division; Mr Song Minho, Chief of KITECH School; Mr Choi Jiyoung, Senior Administrator at KITECH School; Ms Lee Hojin, Officer of the Human Resource Management Office; Mr Kim Jinhyuk, Principal Researcher; Mr Park Hoseop, Director of the KITECH Vietnam Office; and Ms Nguyễn Minh Hồng Thúy from the KITECH Ģ����ý Office.

Both parties provided overviews of respective academic structures and strategic development goals. Discussions focused on scholarship packages and priority pathways offered by the UST-KITECH School specifically for students of HCMUS. Furthermore, the meeting served as a forum for feedback to ensure the creation of a sustainable and mutually beneficial partnership.

Following the plenary session, the programme proceeded with an interactive exchange, providing scholarship consultancy and interviews for students interested in pursuing advanced studies at the UST-KITECH School.

This engagement serves to strengthen the academic ties between HCMUS and KITECH, paving the way for more concrete collaborative ventures in the forthcoming period.

Selected photographs from the visit

 

On 9 April, VNUHCM-University of Science (HCMUS) and FPT Telecom held a formal signing ceremony for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement establishes a framework for academic collaboration, student support initiatives, and joint scientific research, with a specific focus on Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering and Semiconductor Design.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from FPT Telecom, including Mr Trần Thanh Hải, Chief Technology Officer, alongside leadership from the AI Chip Project and the Human Resources Department. HCMUS was represented by Associate Professor Trần Lê Quan, President, as well as leaders from the External Relations Office, the Faculty of Electronics and Telecommunications, and relevant departmental delegates.

Under the terms of the agreement, HCMUS and FPT Telecom have resolved to coordinate corporate site visits and internship programmes for students. Both organisations will also co-host academic conferences, seminars, and career orientation activities. Furthermore, HCMUS will facilitate the recruitment of high-calibre graduates for the company. At a technical level, the two parties have committed to collaborative scientific research and technology transfer, particularly within the fields of Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering and Semiconductor Design.

Following the formal exchange of the memorandum, delegates engaged in detailed discussions regarding the implementation of specific projects for the 2026 academic year. These discussions centred on joint ventures involving AI Chip technology and strategic talent recruitment schemes. This partnership provides a foundation for HCMUS to further align academic curricula with industry requirements, ensuring that teaching and research remain rooted in practical application while directly supplying skilled personnel for major technological projects.

Selected photographs from the Ceremony.

On the afternoon of 2 April 2026, the Alliance for Research and Training in Microelectronics and Semiconductors (ARTSeMi) convened the Second Annual Conference 2026 at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS).

The conference welcomed a distinguished assembly of delegates from regulatory bodies, science and technology organisations, academic institutions, industry partners, and international collaborators. Representing HCMUS were Associate Professor Trần Minh Triết, Vice President of the University, alongside leaders from relevant departments and faculties.

Distinguished guests included Mr Phạm Chánh Trực, former Deputy Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee and former Deputy Head of the Central Economic Commission; Professor Nguyễn Văn Phước, Chairman of the Union of Science and Technology Associations of Ho Chi Minh City; Mr Lâm Đình Thắng, Director of the Department of Science and Technology of Ho Chi Minh City; Mr Nguyễn Hữu Yên, Deputy Director of the Department of Science and Technology of Ho Chi Minh City; Associate Professor Nguyễn Văn Hiếu, Chairman of HSIA and Chairman of ARTSeMi for the 2025–2026 term; Dr Trịnh Xuân Thắng, Director of SHTP Labs and Vice-Chairman of ARTSeMi; Mr Lê Trường Duy, Director of HCMC4IR; Mr Đặng Tấn Đức, Director of the Becamex IDC R&D Institute; and Mr Ping Chuin Ooi, Consumer Industries Global Solutions Architecture Director at Intel Corporation, accompanied by representatives from the Intel Edge Computing Group, members of ARTSeMi and HSIA, and numerous professionals within the microelectronics and semiconductor sectors.

During the proceedings, Associate Professor Trần Minh Triết reaffirmed the commitment of HCMUS to supporting academic collaboration, technological advancement, and industry partnerships within the microelectronics and semiconductor fields.

In the opening address, Associate Professor Nguyễn Văn Hiếu, Chairman of HSIA and Chairman of ARTSeMi for the 2025–2026 term, emphasised the strategic goal of enhancing coordination between alliance members to bridge the gap between academic training, research, and the practical requirements of industry.

Furthermore, the programme featured insights from the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology regarding strategic directions for 2026, alongside contributions from Intel Corporation concerning corporate perspectives and emerging technological trends.

Delegates engaged in discussions regarding the ARTSeMi 2026 Action Plan, focusing on strengthening the nexus between educational institutions, enterprises, professional associations, and regulatory authorities within the microelectronics and semiconductor ecosystem.

A cornerstone of the conference was the formal signing of three pivotal documents involving ARTSeMi, HSIA, HCMUS, and Intel Corporation.

These agreements comprised: a Corporate Non-Disclosure Agreement (CNDA) between ARTSeMi and Intel Corporation; a CNDA between HSIA and Intel Corporation; and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) inviting Intel Corporation to participate in ARTSeMi activities.

 

The signing ceremony marks a significant milestone in attracting international expertise and resources. Within this collaborative framework, HCMUS serves as the representative for the academic and research block, whilst HSIA represents the industrial sector.

Under the terms of the MoU, Intel Corporation is invited to participate in ARTSeMi initiatives, including conferences and technical seminars; share insights into technology and products in accordance with agreed confidentiality principles; and explore potential cooperation in Research and Development (R&D) programmes as mutual needs arise.

During the event, Associate Professor Hoàng Trang, Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, VNUHCM-Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, and member of the HSIA Executive Board, was honoured for receiving the Hitachi Asia Innovation Award 2025.

The proceedings concluded with a panel on international cooperation in research and technical transfer for smart city projects, involving representatives from government, professional bodies, academia, and industry.

In addition, several technological products and solutions from participating units, such as RICHS, DGS, and Becamex IDC, were showcased, demonstrating tangible links between research, education, and technological application.

On the morning of 18 March 2026, at Campus 2 – VNUHCM Urban Area, Linh Dong Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) held a working session with Singapore Management University (SMU), focusing on strategic directions for academic collaboration and human resource development in information technology and cybersecurity.

Key areas of discussion included collaborative education pathways such as Direct Admission, Fast Track, and Concurrent Master’s programmes; short-term training initiatives for academic and professional staff; student exchange combined with cultural immersion; and postgraduate scholarship opportunities, particularly at doctoral level.

Representing the partner institution were Dr Lip Pin Yeo – Senior Associate Director, School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS Postgraduate Professional Programmes), SMU; Associate Professor Shar Lwin Khin – Associate Professor of Computer Science (Practice) and Programme Director of the Master of IT in Business (Cybersecurity); alongside representatives of the SMU Office in Ģ����ý. Representing HCMUS was Professor Ngô Đại Nghiệp – Head of External Relations Office.

Following the working session, Associate Professor Shar Lwin Khin delivered a Masterclass entitled “AI-Driven Security Analysis”, offering updated perspectives on the application of artificial intelligence in cybersecurity.

The session examined the contemporary cybersecurity landscape, where traditional tools and manual analytical approaches face increasing limitations amid the scale and complexity of evolving threats. Particular attention was given to the integration of Large Language Models (LLMs) into real-time vulnerability detection processes, enabling enhanced analytical efficiency and scalability across platforms and programming languages.

Through practical case studies and research tools developed under the SCIS Titan project in collaboration with GovTech, participants engaged with emerging approaches to vulnerability analysis and red team operations, highlighting the growing role of artificial intelligence in shaping modern cybersecurity.

The programme also introduced the Master of IT in Business (MITB) at SMU, recognised among leading programmes in Singapore and across Asia, together with scholarship opportunities such as the Vingroup Young Talent Scholarship for Vietnamese candidates.

The working session and Masterclass strengthened international academic engagement while providing HCMUS staff and students with direct exposure to contemporary technological developments in AI-driven cybersecurity.