On 6 June, the Faculty of Geology at the VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) hosted a symposium entitled ‘Land Management and Land Economics in the Context of Digital Transformation, AI Technology and Sustainable Urban Development’. The event brought together the participation of policymakers, experts, scientists, lecturers and students from the fields of geology, geoinformatics, land management, and urban planning and development.

As Ho Chi Minh City enters a new phase of development with increasingly stringent requirements for urban governance, digital transformation and sustainable growth, the symposium served as an academic forum to connect perspectives from state management, science and technology, and urban development practices. In doing so, the seminar helped clarify the role of geospatial data, digital technology and geological science in supporting policy formulation, land resource management and urban spatial organisation.

In the opening remarks, Associate Professor Phạm Trung Hiếu, Dean of the Faculty of Geology at HCMUS, noted that the profound shifts driven by digital transformation impose new demands on resource management and urban development. According to the Dean of Faculty, technologies such as GIS, UAVs, artificial intelligence and geospatial data systems no longer function merely as technical tools; instead, these advancements are becoming fundamental platforms supporting decision-making processes in planning, land management and sustainable urban development.

A key highlight of the symposium was the interdisciplinary approach applied to land management and land economics. Presentations extended beyond state management to encompass geospatial data, urban economics, digital technology, environmental geology and developmental governance.

Numerous topics were debated by experts, including:

1. ‘State Management of Land in Ho Chi Minh City within the Context of Digital Transformation’ – Mr Huỳnh Thái Ngọc, MA, Head of the Investment, Exploitation and Land Fund Development Department at the Ho Chi Minh City Land Fund Development Centre;
2. ‘Application of the GITC Platform and GIS Technology in State Management’ – Mr Phạm Đức Thịnh, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Information Technology and Geospatial Centre;
3. ‘The “Compact City” Model and Land Economics in the Post-Merger HCMC Mega-Region: Governance Speed, Financialisation of Space and the Challenge of Sustainable Development’ – Dr Nguyễn Bảo Thành, Van Lang University;
4. ‘Application of Digital Transformation in Land and Urban Management: From Parcel Standardisation to the control of unauthorised construction using UAVs and DEMs’ – Dr Trần Anh Tú, VNUHCM–University of Technology;
5. ‘Research into the Evaluation of Current Status and Strategies for Urban Planning and Green Cover in HCMC under the Smart City Model’ – Dr Trần Thị Kim, HCMUS;
6. ‘The Necessity of Establishing Urban Environmental Geological Maps for the Sustainable Management and Development of Post-Merger Ho Chi Minh City’ – Associate Professor Phạm Trung Hiếu, HCMUS, and Mr Đỗ Công Dự, Engineer, Ho Chi Minh City Geological Association.

 

The presentations demonstrated that contemporary urban development depends intrinsically on the effective exploitation of data. When data layers regarding topography, geology, land use status, green spaces, water surfaces, groundwater and subsidence risks are integrated and synchronised, management authorities gain a more robust scientific foundation to assess current conditions, forecast development trends and formulate appropriate management solutions.

In particular, the application of artificial intelligence, big data and geospatial platforms opens up new methods of governance, enhancing the capacity to monitor, analyse and support decision-making in land resource management and urban development. This shift is regarded as an inevitable trend as major cities transition towards smart and sustainable urban models.

Beyond technical considerations, numerous contributors at the symposium emphasised the need to view land as a strategic development resource. The efficient management of land resources must be positioned within an overarching relationship with spatial planning, infrastructure development, environmental protection and the improvement of citizens’ quality of life.

The discussions at the symposium indicated that modern land management requires an interdisciplinary approach, whereby geological science, digital technology, urban economics and public governance collectively inform policy formulation and implementation. This approach aligns closely with the developmental demands of Ho Chi Minh City in the era of digital transformation, contributing to the scientific foundation for the creation of smart, resilient and sustainable urban environments for the future.

Over 100 delegates, including scientists, conservation experts, policymakers and farmers, have attended a seminar entitled “Ecological Approaches to Golden Apple Snail Management in Rice Fields”. The event aimed to identify effective pest control strategies, reduce chemical dependency and promote sustainable agricultural development across the Mekong Delta.

On 28 May 2026, the VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) collaborated with the Department of Agriculture and Environment of Dong Thap Province to host the seminar in Tram Chim Commune, Dong Thap Province. Attendees included Mr Lê Hà Luân, Director of the Dong Thap Department of Agriculture and Environment; Mr Văn Chí Nam, Vice President of HCMUS; alongside more than 100 representatives from the scientific community, conservation bodies, local government and the regional farming sector.

During the opening remarks, institutional leaders emphasised the vital role of science and technology in supporting the agricultural sector to counter pest challenges, whilst steering towards low-emission, sustainable and ecological farming models.

The seminar brought together prominent experts in ecology, agriculture and plant protection from HCMUS, VNU Ha Noi University of Science, Can Tho University, the Southern Plant Protection Centre, and the Ca Mau Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection. Representatives from global conservation bodies, including the IUCN, WWF, and Tram Chim National Park, also contributed to the discussions.

Scientists presented numerous research papers focusing on the biological and ecological characteristics of the golden apple snail. The discussions highlighted integrated biological management strategies designed to minimise pesticide use and preserve biodiversity within paddy fields.

According to the experts, the golden apple snail remains one of the most pervasive pests in rice cultivation, particularly during the early seedling stage. However, management of this species should move away from an exclusive reliance on chemical pesticides. Instead, farmers are encouraged to adopt a combination of ecological measures, such as careful water level regulation, manual collection, botanical traps, duck grazing, or the promotion of natural predators to control snail populations. Chemical treatments should only serve as a final resort when biological methods prove insufficient.

Delegates noted that this ecological approach not only lowers production costs but also protects the paddy ecosystem, maintains biodiversity and enhances agricultural product quality.

Dr Trần Triết, an ecologist representing HCMUS and the International Crane Foundation, observed that the presence of birds, fish, crabs, amphibians, beneficial insects and natural predators indicates a healthy, functioning ecosystem. When managed correctly, this biodiversity serves as a natural support system that helps farmers protect crops more effectively.

A central theme of interest among participants was the concept of treating rice fields not merely as food production sites, but as living ecosystems. Within these habitats, wild species play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, controlling pests and reducing the pressure to use agricultural chemicals. The specialists also clarified that ecological agriculture does not imply sacrificing yields or returning to outdated farming practices. On the contrary, this scientific approach aims to reduce input costs, mitigate environmental impacts and deliver safer produce for consumers.

The active participation of over 30 local rice farmers from Dong Thap was a key highlight of the seminar. Practical insights from real-world farming helped scientists and policymakers evaluate the feasibility of the proposed solutions.

Mr Bùi Quang Sang, representing a model ecological rice farm, remarked that whilst total reliance on pesticides offers quick results, the practice poses severe long-term risks. In his view, combining diverse management techniques and using chemicals only when absolutely necessary helps paddy fields maintain ecological health and achieve long-term sustainability.

According to attendees, the collaborative dialogue between scientists, regulators, businesses, conservation organisations and farmers demonstrates a growing commitment to ecological transition within Dong Thap and the wider Mekong Delta.

Beyond addressing a single pest species, the seminar opened up broader perspectives on modern agricultural development, where production is intrinsically linked to ecosystem protection, biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods for farming communities. Through this initiative, HCMUS reaffirms its commitment to public engagement, translating scientific knowledge into practical solutions. By partnering with local authorities to address urgent societal challenges, the university contributes directly to the national goals of low-emission ecological agriculture, aligned with the Government’s project to develop one million hectares of high-quality rice in the Mekong Delta.

On 10 March 2026, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) held a ceremony to launch the CASA-VN sub-project and hand over the automated air quality monitoring station (AQMS). This initiative forms part of the ‘Clean Air for Sustainable ASEAN’ (CASA) project, a regional collaboration designed to bolster air quality monitoring and management capabilities across Southeast Asian nations.

The CASA project is funded by the ASEAN–Korea Cooperation Fund and led by Seoul National University. In Ģ����ý, the CASA-VN sub-project is implemented in coordination with Ģ����ý National University Ho Chi Minh City, with HCMUS being the unit directly implementing and operating the monitoring system.

Within the framework of the programme, the automated air quality monitoring station (AQMS) was handed over and installed at HCMUS. In Ģ����ý, the CASA project supports the deployment of two monitoring stations in Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City to strengthen the air quality tracking system and serve environmental research. The station located at HCMUS is one of the stations belonging to the CASA project monitoring network in the ASEAN region, which has been deployed in many countries across the area.

The AQMS is an automated monitoring system capable of continuous tracking of air quality parameters such as fine particulate matter PM_2.5, PM₁₀ and several common pollutants. Data from the system is updated in real-time, serving research on urban environments, analysis of air pollution trends, and providing a scientific basis for developing air quality management solutions. This data source will also be integrated into the University’s training and research activities.

Representing the University, Assoc.Prof. Trần Lê Quan – President of HCMUS – stated that air pollution is becoming one of the notable environmental and public health challenges in many large cities. The implementation of the CASA-VN sub-project not only contributes to improving environmental monitoring capacity but also creates a foundation for scientific research activities and academic cooperation in the field of air quality management.

In the context of ASEAN countries strengthening research cooperation on the environment and climate change, regional cooperation initiatives such as the CASA project play an important role in connecting scientific resources and sharing monitoring data between countries.

Speaking at the event, GS. Kiyoung Lee – CASA Project Manager, Seoul National University – expressed expectation that the CASA-VN sub-project will promote cooperation in training and research between Seoul National University and HCMUS, while contributing to expanding the air quality research network in the region.

In the coming time, monitoring data from the AQMS system will be shared within the CASA project research network in the ASEAN region, contributing to supporting interdisciplinary research and providing a scientific basis for building air quality improvement policies. The project also opens opportunities to strengthen cooperation between Vietnamese and South Korean scientists in the field of environmental science, thereby promoting research and the training of high-quality human resources serving the sustainable development of the region.

Dr. Đinh Bá Tiến (VNUHCM-University of Science) presenting at the conference. Source: TDTU

At the conference titled “Upholding the Role of the Council of University Presidents regarding the Ho Chi Minh City ‘Megacity’ Region”, Dr. Đinh Bá Tiến (VNUHCM-University of Science) presented the “Investment in High-Performance Computing (HPC/AI) Infrastructure” model. The presentation highlighted the framework as a pivotal foundation enabling Ho Chi Minh City to address major urban challenges through reliance upon empirical, trustworthy, and centrally governed data.

Dr. Đinh Bá Tiến observed that Ho Chi Minh City faces a multitude of complex, systemic, and interdisciplinary challenges, including traffic congestion, logistics, flooding, healthcare provision, environmental management, and urban safety. Such issues share a common requirement for operation at a massive scale, heavy reliance on multi-source data, and a need for advanced computational, simulation, and analytical capabilities. Consequently, investment in high-performance computing combined with artificial intelligence (HPC/AI) constitutes the core foundation for a transition from fragmented approaches towards data-driven urban management and governance.

“The proposed model operates as a shared platform between Ho Chi Minh City and VNUHCM. Under this framework, the City provides practical urban management problems alongside multi-disciplinary and multi-sectoral data sources; VNUHCM ensures in-depth research capacity, model construction, simulation, and core technology development, delivered through a contingent of interdisciplinary experts, modern laboratory systems, and research centres,” stated Dr. Đinh Bá Tiến.

The HPC/AI infrastructure design employs an on-premise and hybrid model, fulfilling requirements for security, management, and data legislation compliance, whilst simultaneously permitting flexible expansion as computational volume increases. This approach assists Ho Chi Minh City in maintaining strict control over sensitive data, mitigating risks associated with external platform dependence, and optimising investment and operational costs.

Notably, the HPC/AI model construction aligns with a three-year deployment roadmap. The initial year focuses on establishing core infrastructure, constructing a trusted data zone, and deploying selected pilot projects for the City. Upon commencement of the second year, the system will undergo scale expansion, security enhancement, and operational process standardisation, serving municipal departments and sectors directly. By the third year, the HPC/AI infrastructure will evolve into a comprehensive platform connecting enterprises and start-ups, thereby facilitating the replication of verified solutions into practical urban management and administration.

Dr. Đinh Bá Tiến emphasised that the distinguishing feature of the HPC/AI model is the tight integration between research and the practical necessities of Ho Chi Minh City. On this platform, simulation, analysis, and scientific verification of major urban challenges can occur based on real-world data, thereby shortening decision-making time, reducing repetitive testing costs, and enhancing solution reliability. Transcending mere research, the system outputs possess a design suitable for immediate application in management, administration, and policy planning duties.

Through investment in HPC/AI infrastructure, Ho Chi Minh City not only acquires an additional technical instrument supporting modern urban management but also progressively achieves mastery over core technologies in priority sectors. This initiative establishes a long-term foundation for scientific development, technology, and innovation within the ‘megacity’ region.

In recognition of exceptional achievements in academia, scientific research, and community service, the Ho Chi Minh City Youth Union conferred the title of “Ho Chi Minh City Outstanding Young Citizen 2025” upon Võ Ngọc Minh Anh, an undergraduate student in the Faculty of Information Technology at VNUHCM-University of Science. The Youth Union organised the commendation ceremony on 1 January 2026.

During the proceedings, Võ Ngọc Minh Anh emerged as a distinguished figure within the science and technology sector, standing as one of the few female representatives to receive the honour this year. Such a title acknowledges persistent academic and research endeavours whilst affirming the increasingly distinct role and contributions of female students within key scientific and technological disciplines.

In 2025, the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, in collaboration with the Ministry of Science and Technology, presented Võ Ngọc Minh Anh with the “Ģ����ý Female Science and Technology Student Award”. This accolade placed the student among the top 20 outstanding female undergraduates nationwide, thereby becoming a source of pride for both VNUHCM-University of Science and VNU-HCM.

Throughout the academic journey, Võ Ngọc Minh Anh has maintained an exemplary disciplinary record whilst actively engaging in scientific research. The undergraduate serves as co-author of one paper at a rank-B international conference, lead author of another international conference paper, and contributor to five papers at national scientific gatherings. Notably, the student achieved the title of Distinguished Presenter at the International Student Science Forum 2024, alongside numerous other professional awards in information technology. Such accomplishments demonstrate robust research capabilities and the dedicated spirit of a young scholar.

Parallel to academic pursuits, the student from the Faculty of Information Technology actively participates in voluntary programmes and social welfare initiatives. Võ Ngọc Minh Anh earned the trust to represent the youth by reading the Letter of the First Congress of the Ho Chi Minh City Communist Youth Union, for the 2025–2030 term, addressed to union members and young citizens. This milestone signifies the high regard the Youth Union holds for the prestige, fortitude, and social responsibility demonstrated by the young scholar.

The title “Ho Chi Minh City Outstanding Young Citizen 2025” serves as worthy recognition for the comprehensive efforts of Võ Ngọc Minh Anh. Furthermore, the award promotes the image of VNUHCM-University of Science students as dynamic, creative, and filled with a desire to contribute. Such recognition stands as vivid evidence of the role young intellectuals play in the journey of building and developing Ho Chi Minh City, and the nation.

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Celebrating the fifteenth anniversary of the Science Film Festival, the Goethe-Institut Ho Chi Minh City, under the patronage of the Consulate General of Germany and in collaboration with various partners, convened Science Fair 2025 – a special event bearing the theme ‘Curious little minds today – Sustainable change tomorrow.’

The fair sought to establish connections among organisations engaged in education, innovation, and sustainable development, while fostering an environment where science, education, and art converged. Designed for children, young people, and science enthusiasts, Science Fair 2025 presented a series of STEM activities, interactive exhibitions, and thematic discussions. The programme cultivated curiosity, a passion for learning, and a sense of environmental responsibility through a dynamic synthesis of creativity and scientific exploration.

As a long-standing partner of the Science Film Festival Ģ����ý, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) contributed to advancing sustainability education through initiatives coordinated by the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Sciences. The Faculty introduced a variety of experiential learning opportunities combining technology, creativity, and environmental awareness.

The AR–VR station enabled visitors to design traditional Hoi An lanterns through augmented reality, effectively bridging cultural heritage with modern technological innovation. The Climate Fresk board game guided participants to examine causes and strategies for addressing climate change through interactive engagement. STEM-based games such as Green Footprint (carbon footprint), Mo-no-poly (polymer science), and ‘Green Career’ activities—including quizzes and picture-based challenges—attracted significant interest, conveying the imperative of sustainable living in daily practice.

Pupils and students engaging enthusiastically with the event activities.

Notably, within the framework of the Science in Dialogues series, Dr Nguyễn Hà Hùng Chương, a lecturer at the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Sciences (HCMUS), delivered an insightful talk titled ‘Green Career Orientation.’ The session focused on elucidating the concept of a ‘Green Career’ and the status of the sector as an inevitable global trend.

Dr Chương addressed the means by which students across all disciplines could ‘green’ future professions, whilst analysing the requisite skills and employment opportunities within the context of the global green transition. These perspectives assisted learners in clearly identifying the nexus between scientific knowledge, social responsibility, and sustainable career pathways.

 

Dr Nguyễn Hà Hùng Chương (first picture) delivering a presentation on “Green Career Orientation,” alongside fellow speakers addressing broader themes of the green transition and sustainable development.