On 9 June, the Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) hosted a meeting and bilateral discussion with Professor Sanna Huttunen and Dr Samuli Lehtonen, two visiting professors from the University of Turku, Finland.

Representing HCMUS at the session were Professor Ngô Đại Nghiệp, Head of the External Relations Office; Associate Professor Trương Hải Nhung, Dean of the Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology; Associate Professor Nguyễn Tuyết Phương, Dean of the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Sciences and Head of the Graduate Studies Office; alongside academic staff from the Faculties.

During the dialogue, representatives from both institutions shared insights into respective academic programmes, scientific research activities, and strategic development goals for the coming years. A wide range of potential collaborative initiatives was discussed, including student exchange schemes, the delivery of both in-person and online instructional modules, and the implementation of practical workshops focused on ecosystems, climate change, the environment, and sustainable development. Joint organisation of scientific conferences and specialised workshops was also considered.

Delegates further explored the feasibility of establishing a 1+1 joint Master’s programme, co-supervising postgraduate and doctoral students, whilst expanding collaborative research in mutually beneficial fields.

The meeting provided a valuable forum for academics to exchange expertise, share pedagogical and research experiences, and deliberate on future collaborative directions between the Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Interdisciplinary Sciences, and the University of Turku.

On the afternoon of 24 April 2026, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) hosted a delegation from the National University of Singapore (NUS), one of Asia’s leading higher education institutions, to discuss and promote future collaboration in academic education and research.

The NUS delegation comprised representatives from several specialised units, including the NUS Graduate School, the Centre for English Language Communication, NUS Enterprise, the NUS Institute of Systems Science, and the School of Continuing and Lifelong Education. The delegation was led by Associate Professor Caroline Lee, Vice Provost (Graduate Education) and Dean of the NUS Graduate School.

Representing HCMUS were Associate Professor Trần Lê Quan, President of the University; Professor Ngô Đại Nghiệp, Head of the External Relations Office; and leaders from the Faculties of Interdisciplinary Sciences, Physics and Engineering Physics, Environment, Geology, Materials Science and Technology, Biology and Biotechnology, and Information Technology.

Speaking at the meeting, Associate Professor Trần Lê Quan emphasised the University’s commitment to developing academic programmes aligned with international integration. He noted that partnerships with prestigious institutions such as NUS play a vital role in enhancing the quality of postgraduate education. According to the President, establishing flexible joint models that address practical demands and emerging technological trends will broaden learning and research opportunities for students, particularly within interdisciplinary fields.

Representing NUS, Associate Professor Caroline Lee expressed high regard for the potential of collaboration with HCMUS, whilst sharing the NUS vision for postgraduate development focused on interdisciplinarity, technological integration, and internationalisation. She stated that NUS is prepared to coordinate the implementation of scholarship schemes, joint education programmes, and academic exchanges, aiming to build sustainable and profound collaborative models.

Discussions between the two institutions focused on three core areas of cooperation. The first involves postgraduate scholarship programmes provided by NUS, enabling students to access a world-class academic environment. The second concerns joint Master’s degree models, such as “1+1” or “1.5+0.5” structures, which optimise study duration and enhance educational efficiency. The third focus area includes summer programmes and short-term courses delivered by NUS Enterprise and affiliated units, designed to enhance practical experience, innovation, and global skills for students.

Furthermore, representatives from the Centre for English Language Communication introduced programmes to improve academic English proficiency, providing a necessary foundation for students participating in international schemes. Contributions from the NUS Institute of Systems Science and the School of Continuing and Lifelong Education also opened avenues for collaboration in digital skills education, lifelong learning, and short-term courses tailored to the needs of the contemporary labour market.

The proceedings focused on practical implementation, prioritising collaborative programmes with high feasibility that meet real-world requirements. Consequently, both parties agreed to maintain communication at the departmental level to gradually realise these collaborative initiatives. Particular emphasis will be placed on interdisciplinary sciences, materials science, environment, and biology-biotechnology, whilst increasing integration with information technology, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data science.

This engagement represents a concrete step in the internationalisation strategy of VNUHCM–University of Science. This strategy aims to build flexible academic programmes and strengthen ties with regional and global academic networks, thereby expanding opportunities for students and enhancing the University’s standing in an increasingly competitive global knowledge landscape.

On 29 January 2026, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) hosted a ceremony for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International College of Semiconductor Technology (ICST), National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU, Taiwan). This event represents a significant milestone in the strategic expansion of international partnerships and the advancement of education and research within semiconductor technology, a fundamental pillar of modern innovation.

Distinguished attendees from NYCU included Prof. Kuan Neng Chen, Dean of the International College of Semiconductor Technology; Assoc. Prof. Yu Sheng Su, Director of the INTENSE Programme; and Dr Phạm Thị Như Nguyệt, a lecturer at ICST, NYCU. Representing HCMUS were Assoc. Prof. Trần Lê Quan, President of the University; Prof. Ngô Đại Nghiệp, Head of External Relations; alongside leadership and faculty members from the Faculties of Physics – Engineering Physics, Electronics & Telecommunications, Chemistry, Interdisciplinary Sciences, and Materials Science & Technology.

During the proceedings, representatives from both institutions emphasised the necessity of integrating academic, research, and training resources as the global semiconductor industry undergoes rapid expansion, requiring deeper involvement from higher education institutions and research centres. In this spirit, the two parties formally signed the MoU to foster mutual understanding and develop long-term collaborative activities across natural sciences, engineering, and semiconductor technology.

Under the terms of the MoU, HCMUS and ICST, NYCU have agreed to implement several key collaborative initiatives. These include the joint development of NYCU’s International Master’s Programme in Semiconductor Technology in Ģ����ý; exchange programmes for students and faculty; collaborative research projects; joint scientific publications; and other academic ventures based on mutual agreement and practical requirements. This partnership establishes a vital foundation for expanding the international academic landscape for lecturers, researchers, and students at HCMUS.

Following the signing ceremony, the Joint Workshop on Semiconductor Technology commenced with a series of in-depth scientific presentations, drawing significant interest from faculty, researchers, and students. Presentations focused on pioneering research and applications in semiconductor technology, integrated circuit (IC) design, materials, and simulation, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature and evolving trends of the sector. Notable reports included: Education and Research in IC Design at HCMUS; The Evolution of Semiconductor Integration with 3D IC and Advanced Packaging; high-performance lithium energy storage strategies; memristor research; two-dimensional materials for ion batteries; and thermal modelling for integrated chips.

 

A discussion session within the framework of the Joint Workshop on Semiconductor Technology, featuring scientists and lecturers from NYCU and HCMUS.

Through this signing ceremony and the accompanying academic activities, HCMUS continues to assert its position as a prestigious institution for education and research, committed to proactive international integration and increasing its contribution to the regional and global semiconductor ecosystem. The partnership with NYCU is expected to generate numerous opportunities for learners, faculty, and research groups, providing a substantive contribution to the development of Ģ����ý’s high-quality human resources in the coming years.

On 9 December, VNUHCM-University of Science (HCMUS) organised Science Fair – BioXplore 2025, an event forming part of the BioXplore student exchange programme coordinated between the Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology (HCMUS) and the National University of Singapore (NUS). The initiative cultivates a dynamic international academic environment wherein students from both institutions may jointly introduce applied scientific models and projects.

Held for the first time at HCMUS, Science Fair – BioXplore 2025 assembled eighteen exhibition projects spanning diverse fields such as artificial intelligence, molecular biology, ecology, public health, environmental technology, and sustainable energy. Numerous visual models captivated observers; notably, the “Dendritic Cell” model of the immune system offered a vivid representation, enabling visitors to visualise the structure and operating mechanisms with ease. Furthermore, the “Neuron” model integrated LED lighting to assist in structural identification, whilst other projects addressed mangrove forest adaptation and PET plastic recycling.

Beyond the exhibition area, the Science Fair featured experiential activities for visitors, comprising simple physics experiments, biological process simulations, and applied educational games. Here, undergraduates from HCMUS and NUS delivered direct presentations, expounded upon scientific principles, and engaged with guests. Such interaction provided an opportunity for learners to demonstrate professional competencies, foreign language proficiency, and knowledge transmission skills, whilst simultaneously fostering connections among student groups despite differences in academic specialisation.

Students from HCMUS and NUS engage with one another and interact with attendees at the exhibition booths.

Based upon the evaluation of the Jury combined with visitor votes, the Organising Committee honoured the most outstanding projects. The two booths achieving distinction for presentation included “PET Recycle” by HCMUS students, conveying a practical environmental message, and “Sustainable Energy” by the NUS cohort, featuring a renewable energy solution model. In the category of most popular project, “Evo Inc.”—a board game simulating natural selection—received the highest number of votes owing to a creative approach grounded in Darwin’s theory of evolution.

The conclusion of Science Fair – BioXplore 2025 unveils numerous practical values for undergraduates through access to international academic exchange models, the honing of research thinking, and the refinement of presentation and multicultural teamwork abilities. This event functions as a crucial foundation, empowering learners to integrate confidently, prepare for participation in large-scale scientific projects, and expand opportunities for development within the global academic sphere.

Between the 1st and the 5th of December 2025, a delegation from VNUHCM-University of Science (HCMUS) undertook an official visitation to prominent nuclear industrial facilities in the Republic of Korea. Concurrently, the group executed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Korea Nuclear Association (KNA). Such engagement served to strengthen academic-industrial linkages whilst opening strategic avenues for cooperation in education, research, and the development of nuclear human resources.

Prof. Nguyễn Trung Nhân, Vice President of the University, led the mission. The party also included Prof. Châu Văn Tạo—former Vice President, Vice President of the Ģ����ý Nuclear Society, and member of the Council for Science and Education at the Ģ����ý Atomic Energy Institute—alongside leadership from the Faculty of Physics – Engineering Physics and the Office of External Relations.

The itinerary commenced at the Doosan Enerbility plant in Changwon, a premier heavy industry and energy conglomerate possessing the capacity to autonomously manufacture nearly the entire equipment supply chain for nuclear power plants. There, delegates observed large-scale production lines firsthand, ranging from the processing of steel ingots to the completion of super-heavy components such as reactor pressure vessels, pressurizers, and steam generators. The high degree of localisation demonstrated by Doosan Enerbility elicited a profound impression, underscoring the exceptional development of the South Korean nuclear industry.

Subsequently, the delegation visited the KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School (KINGS), an establishment dedicated to technical human resources and nuclear policy. During the session, the two parties exchanged views on academic-corporate cooperation models, strategies for training personnel for new nuclear power projects, and the potential admission of Vietnamese students into postgraduate programmes. A consensus was reached regarding the expedition of specific cooperation agreements in the near future.

The delegation at the KEPCO International Nuclear Graduate School (KINGS).

A significant milestone of the journey was the tour of the Saeul Nuclear Power Plant, operator of the APR-1400 reactor, a technology indigenous to the Republic of Korea. Representatives surveyed four units in total—comprising two operational units and two under construction—whilst visiting critical areas such as the spent fuel storage pool, the turbine building, and the main control room. The management model at Saeul, characterised by safety and complete autonomy, constitutes clear evidence of South Korean prowess in modern nuclear technology.

The delegation receiving an overview presentation prior to the field tour of the nuclear power plant (site photography was restricted for security reasons).

Upon departing Saeul, the delegation proceeded to examine the role of robotics in industrial maintenance at Core Robotics, a provider of advanced robotic systems for the inspection, repair, and operation of nuclear infrastructure. Observation of direct testing procedures elucidated the extensive application of automation in enhancing the efficiency and safety of nuclear power plants.

For the purpose of obtaining a comprehensive perspective on the fuel cycle, the team also held a working session with the Korea Radioactive Waste Agency (KORAD). KORAD holds responsibility for the safe management of all national radioactive waste, operating both surface and deep geological repository systems in accordance with international standard procedures.

To conclude the official proceedings, HCMUS and the Korea Nuclear Association (KNA) formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Under the auspices of this accord, the signatories pledged to promote academic and expert exchanges; coordinate high-quality human resource training; organise scientific seminars and professional development programmes; and facilitate access to modern nuclear industrial environments for students and lecturers alike.

 

The signing ceremony of the cooperation agreement between VNUHCM-University of Science and the Korea Nuclear Association (KNA).

The official visitation signifies a major advancement in the international integration strategy of VNUHCM-University of Science, whilst simultaneously contributing to the strengthening of connections between Vietnamese academic institutions and the global nuclear industrial ecosystem.

On 28 November, a delegation from VNUHCM-University of Science (HCMUS) paid a working visit to Vientiane, the capital of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), to promote collaboration in education, science – technology, and academic exchange with the National University of Laos (NUOL) and affiliated education units. The working trip contributed to expanding the University’s regional partner network and strengthening the Ģ����ý – Lao PDR friendship in higher education.

The delegation was led by Associate Professor Trần Lê Quan, President of HCMUS, alongside leaders of functional offices and the Faculty of Physics – Engineering Physics. The working trip included survey activities, professional exchange, the signing of cooperation agreements, and academic discussions with units at NUOL.

During the working session at NUOL, the two universities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the following main contents: exchange of learners, lecturers, and researchers; joint research collaboration; sharing of learning materials, publications, scientific announcements, and scientific databases; co-organising international conferences, seminars, and specialised workshops; and implementing long-term academic exchange programmes.

At the Lao National Gifted High School, HCMUS gained an understanding of education needs, the strategy for developing high-quality human resources, and opportunities to expand programmes for Lao students wishing to pursue higher education in Ģ����ý. To practically support education efforts for the Lao side, HCMUS announced the awarding of five full scholarships annually for the school’s most excellent students, prioritising basic science and technology majors.

Concurrently, the Faculty of Physics – Engineering Physics (HCMUS) and the Faculty of Natural Sciences (NUOL) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) concerning Nuclear Physics and related fields, focusing on joint research and conferences/seminars collaboration; exchange of lecturers, learners, and researchers; co-supervision of postgraduate studies; and building education programmes appropriate for the needs of energy and nuclear science development for both parties.

Within the framework of the working trip, the HCMUS delegation also discussed development directions with NUOL, learned about education and research infrastructure conditions, and deliberated cooperation opportunities in basic sciences, materials, technology, and STEM education. Furthermore, the delegation toured facilities, laboratories, and research centres of the partner university.

The working trip concluded with many practical results, contributing to strengthening academic cooperation between the two universities and opening many opportunities to implement joint programmes in science – technology, education, and the exchange of learners, lecturers, and researchers. VNUHCM-University of Science affirmed a commitment to continuing to accompany the National University of Laos in professional support activities, human resource development, and promoting the connection of education – scientific research between the two sides, contributing to nurturing the traditional friendship between Ģ����ý and the Lao PDR.

On 24 November, at the Nguyen Van Cu campus library, VNUHCM-University of Science held the inauguration ceremony for the ‘India Corner’ space. This project represents a cooperative effort between the University and the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City, aiming to strengthen educational and cultural exchange and promote the friendly relationship between the two parties.

The ‘India Corner’ has been equipped with a computer system, printers, and scientifically arranged areas for working and searching. The space thus creates favourable conditions for study, research, and self-learning activities. This is not just a functional area of the Library, but also a focal point for knowledge exchange, helping participants access high-quality reference materials.

The highlight of the project is specialised bookshelves containing over 100 valuable titles in English and Vietnamese, covering fields such as history, politics, diplomacy, culture, art, cuisine, and philosophy. Representative titles such as The India Way, Pax Sinica, Indian Super Food, Gandhi, and Sufism offer multifaceted and profound perspectives on the Indian identity, from tradition to modernity.

Speaking at the ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Trần Minh Triết—Vice President—expressed deep gratitude to the Consulate General of India for collaborating on the establishment of this meaningful cultural and academic space. The Vice President emphasised: “The India Corner not only expands the resource of knowledge for learners but also serves as a cultural bridge, helping students and lecturers gain deeper access to the history, identity, and achievements of India. This project contributes to strengthening academic exchange and expanding cooperation between the two sides.”

Dr Vipra Pandey—Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City—also expressed joy at collaborating with the University in forming the ‘India Corner.’ The Consul General affirmed that the space is a ‘living symbol of the Ģ����ý–India friendship,’ and expressed confidence that the bookshelf and resources available will inspire students in study, research, and cultural exploration.

The operationalisation of the ‘India Corner’ space at the VNUHCM-University of Science Library demonstrates the University’s commitment to building a diverse, open, and internationally rich academic environment. This is also a step towards connecting the learning community with major global cultures through credible sources of knowledge, contributing to promoting educational exchange and expanding academic cooperation in the future.

From 13 to 15 November, a delegation from VNUHCM-University of Science (HCMUS) participated in the First GNU-HCMUS Joint Symposium on Biotechnology, hosted by Gyeongsang National University (GNU, Republic of Korea) at the Gajwa campus. This event was a key academic activity implemented within the framework of cooperation between HCMUS and GNU, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in January 2025.

The symposium was primarily led by the Research Institute of Plant Biotechnology and the Molecular Control Research Institute (GNU), in coordination with G-LAMP, BK21 FOUR Agricultural-Biological Sciences, the Biomedical Big Data Project, and the ABC-RLRC Centre. The event convened 15 lecturers, researchers, and postgraduate students from the two institutions to present the latest research findings in biotechnology and related interdisciplinary fields.

The HCMUS delegation included Dr Nguyễn Thị Hồng Tưởng, Dr Nguyễn Hữu Hoàng, and young researchers from the Faculty of Biology – Biotechnology to deliver specialist presentations. GNU was represented by many esteemed experts, including Prof. Kwon Moonhyuk, Prof. Lee Sangkyu, Prof. Kang Yangje, Prof. Kim Daewon, and Prof. Bui Van Tien.

In his welcome speech, Prof. Jeong Woosik highly praised the role of HCMUS in bilateral cooperation, and emphasised the anticipation for expanding student, lecturer, and research group exchanges to enhance international competitiveness. At the closing session, Dr Nguyễn Hữu Hoàng represented HCMUS alongside Prof. Jeong Woosik in reaffirming a commitment to boost cooperation programmes in the forthcoming period.

The symposium also marked an initial cooperative success, with a postgraduate student from HCMUS having commenced the student’s study programme at GNU in 2025. This success signals positive developments for joint training and academic exchange activities. The two universities agreed to continue expanding academic cooperation, focusing on areas such as student and researcher exchange, visiting and research invitation programmes, attracting high-quality postgraduate students, and developing joint research projects and applied research platforms.

Notably, HCMUS will host the Second GNU-HCMUS Joint Symposium in the autumn of 2026, which is expected to expand the scale and depth of collaboration in the field of biotechnology.

The participation of VNUHCM-University of Science at this symposium further confirms the University’s standing in biotechnology education and research within Ģ����ý, while strengthening the strategic cooperative relationship with Gyeongsang National University in developing valuable research programmes with international outreach.