On the morning of April 29, 2026, Thuyloi University held a working session with a delegation from Guangxi Vocational College of Water Resources and Electric Power (GCWE) to discuss directions for cooperation in education and training, scientific research, and human resource development.
Photo: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Canh Thai, Vice President of the University, chaired the working session with Guangxi Vocational College of Water Resources and Electric Power.
Speaking at the meeting, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Canh Thai expressed his pleasure in welcoming the delegation to visit and work at the university. He also emphasized that the two institutions share many similarities in their key strengths, particularly in water resources, hydropower, and water-related fields. On that basis, he expressed his expectation that the meeting would open up practical opportunities for cooperation and contribute to strengthening the relationship between the two institutions in the coming time.
On behalf of Guangxi Vocational College of Water Resources and Electric Power, Mr. Li Lin, Secretary of the Party Committee, presented an overview of the institution’s development and standing. He emphasized that GCWE is one of the leading vocational education institutions in China, ranking among the top 10% of more than 1,600 colleges nationwide.
He also noted that Vietnam and China share a common border and face many similar challenges related to water resources and disaster prevention, which creates significant potential for cooperation in training and applied research. In addition, the college is actively promoting the internationalization of vocational education and expanding partnerships with institutions around the world.
Mr. Li Lin expressed his appreciation to Thuyloi University for sending a delegation to Guangxi to attend the series of events commemorating World Water Day 2026. The events were jointly organized in Nanning City, Guangxi Province, China, by the Department of Water Resources of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, universities and colleges in Guangxi, and the Departments of Agriculture and Environment of the Vietnamese provinces of Quang Ninh, Lang Son, Cao Bang, and Tuyen Quang.
During the meeting, both sides focused on discussing potential areas of cooperation, including curriculum development, student exchange, joint scientific research, and technology transfer in engineering fields.
In particular, both parties showed strong interest in strengthening the linkage between theoretical training and practical application, as well as aligning education with the real-world needs of shared disciplines such as water resources, energy, and mechanical engineering. They also agreed to promote the development of cooperative programs in the near future, including faculty exchange, student training, organization of scientific workshops, establishment of joint research groups, and enhanced academic exchange between faculty members and students.
Within the framework of the meeting, representatives of the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the official beginning of the cooperative relationship between Thuyloi University and Guangxi Vocational College of Water Resources and Electric Power.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides agreed to continue close coordination in developing specific implementation plans, gradually turning the discussed initiatives into reality. The exchange not only contributed to strengthening the cooperative relationship between the two institutions but also opened up numerous opportunities for collaboration in vocational education, scientific research, and high-quality human resource development between Vietnam and China.
Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation
On the morning of April 17, 2026, at Room 225/A2, Thuyloi University held a working session with a delegation from Keimyung University (Korea) to discuss directions for cooperation and the operational plan for the Thuyloi – Keimyung Daegu Global Center. The meeting was chaired by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Do Van Quang, Vice President of Thuyloi University.
In his remarks at the meeting, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Do Van Quang expressed his pleasure in welcoming the delegation from Keimyung University and highlighted the positive outcomes of the cooperation between the two institutions in recent years. Activities such as delegation exchanges, academic collaboration, joint research, and student exchanges have contributed to building a strong foundation for further expanding cooperation in the coming period.
At the meeting, both sides focused on discussing the operational model and effective utilization of the Thuyloi – Keimyung Daegu Global Center, as well as cooperation directions for 2026 and the years ahead. The Center is expected to serve as a focal point connecting training, research, cultural exchange, and international cooperation activities between the two universities.
Representatives of Thuyloi University affirmed that the establishment of the Center is the result of a long-term, sustained, and effective partnership between the two institutions. It also marks an important step forward in elevating their cooperation, with a view to developing joint academic programs, promoting student and faculty exchanges, and implementing collaborative research projects.
On behalf of the University leadership, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Do Van Quang expressed his sincere appreciation to Prof. Min Kyung-Mo and the delegation from Keimyung University for their active coordination and valuable contributions to the establishment and development of the Center. He also expressed his hope that both sides will continue to make thorough preparations to successfully organize upcoming activities, including the inauguration ceremony of the Center in the near future.
In his remarks at the meeting, Prof. Min Kyung-Mo, Dean of the Office of International Affairs at Keimyung University, expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by Thuyloi University. He noted that the Thuyloi – Keimyung Daegu Global Center is the result of a strong and sustained partnership between the two institutions, and affirmed that the Center holds strategic significance in expanding Keimyung University’s international cooperation in Vietnam.
According to the Korean representative, in the coming period, the Center will not only serve as a venue for Korean language classes but also as a dynamic space for cultural exchange, student engagement, and the organization of seminars, workshops, and exhibitions showcasing
Both sides also agreed to further expand cooperative programs, including the 2+2 joint training model, student exchange initiatives, and the organization of annual scientific conferences with the participation of faculty members and researchers from both institutions. In addition, the establishment of joint research groups, the organization of seminars, as well as the implementation of both in-person and online exchange activities were identified as practical directions for the coming period.
Representatives of Thuyloi University noted that the University is an active member of a network of leading technical universities in Vietnam. Therefore, the operation of the Center is expected to help expand cooperation not only between the two institutions but also with a wider range of educational partners both domestically and internationally.
At the meeting, several participants also proposed diversifying the Center’s activities to better engage students, such as organizing cultural and sports exchange events, as well as inspirational talks and meet-and-greet sessions. These initiatives are expected to help create a dynamic and modern learning environment while enhancing the visibility and reputation of both universities.
Following the working session, the delegates proceeded to the first floor of Building C1 on the campus of Thuyloi University to attend the plaque unveiling ceremony of the Thuyloi – Keimyung Daegu Global Center. The ceremony was held in a formal and solemn manner, marking a new milestone in the cooperation between the two institutions and reaffirming their shared commitment to effectively operating the Center, thereby strengthening connections in education, scientific research, and cultural exchange between Vietnam and Korea.
At the conclusion of the meeting, representatives of both sides agreed to continue close coordination in developing a detailed operational plan to ensure that the Thuyloi – Keimyung Daegu Global Center operates effectively across training, research, cultural exchange, and international cooperation. Immediately afterward, the delegation moved to the Center to continue their working program.
Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation
On the afternoon of April 17, at Room 225/A2, Thuyloi University held a working session with a Korean partner delegation and representatives from several universities in Hanoi to discuss plans for jointly organizing a Vietnam–Korea educational and cultural exchange program under an international “Open Day” model.
The meeting was attended by Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet, President of Thuyloi University; representatives of the delegation from Chosun University (Korea); representatives of Korean enterprises; as well as leaders and staff from several higher education institutions, including Dong Do University, Hanoi University of Culture, Hanoi University of Civil Engineering, Hanoi University of Natural Resources and Environment, Vietnam University of Fine Arts, and other relevant units.
In his remarks at the meeting, Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet emphasized the importance of strengthening connections between Vietnamese higher education institutions and Korean partners, not only in academic training and scientific research but also in cultural exchange activities that support students in accessing international learning environments. The University affirmed its readiness to collaborate with partners in developing a substantive and practical program, creating more opportunities for students to engage with international joint programs.
According to the Korean representatives, following a series of surveys and working sessions with various universities in Vietnam, Chosun University expressed its desire to collaborate with partner institutions to organize a large-scale Vietnam–Korea education and cultural exchange event. The program is expected to take place in early November 2026 in the form of an “Open Day,” combining the introduction of study opportunities, cultural exchange activities, business networking, and the expansion of international cooperation.
At the meeting, participants focused on discussing several key issues, including the program’s objectives; target participants; proposed time and venue; structure of activities; coordination mechanisms among participating universities; financial support arrangements; as well as communication and logistics planning.
Many participants suggested that the program should clearly identify high school students as its primary target audience, with support from university students. It was also proposed that the event be organized in an open format, enhancing hands-on experiences through booths, cultural and artistic activities, admission counseling, and the introduction of international joint training programs.
In concluding the meeting, the leadership of Thuyloi University noted that these contributions provide an important basis for finalizing the program proposal. It was also agreed to establish a focal unit to further develop a detailed plan, assign specific responsibilities, and work toward the successful organization of the event in the near future.
The program is expected to introduce a new model of cooperation between Vietnamese universities and Korean partners, contributing to the internationalization of higher education, strengthening people-to-people exchanges, and creating more learning opportunities for students.
Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation
On the morning of April 16, at the Hoa Lac campus, Thuyloi University held a working session with a delegation from Chosun University (Korea) to advance strategic cooperation between the two institutions, with a focus on the establishment of Sejong Center and the expansion of academic programs and international exchange activities.
The meeting was attended by representatives from various functional units of Thuyloi University and was chaired by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Do Van Quang, Vice President. On behalf of Chosun University, participants included Mr. Park Hosin, Head of the Office of International Affairs, and Ms. Jang Hyeon Jin, Professor of the Department of Global Studies, along with staff members from relevant departments of both institutions.
In his remarks at the meeting, the leadership of Thuyloi University emphasized that strengthening cooperation with international higher education institutions, particularly partners from Korea, plays a significant role in enhancing the University’s training quality, scientific research, and international integration.
During the session, both sides engaged in in-depth discussions on several key areas. Notably, they focused on the plan to establish Sejong Center at Hoa Lac campus to promote Korean language education and foster cultural and academic exchange. Thuyloi University assigned relevant units to take the lead in finalizing the proposal and strengthening supporting documentation of cooperation with regional educational institutions to meet the requirements set by the Korean partner.
In addition, the two universities agreed to implement student and staff exchange programs, with plans to welcome a delegation of Korean students to Thuyloi University for a 7-day study and research program in July 2026. The program will combine academic activities, thematic research, and practical experiences, contributing to enhanced cultural understanding and professional capacity for students from both countries.
Another notable initiative is the implementation of the “Free-School” online Korean language training program transferred by the Korean side. This is considered an important opportunity to expand access to Korean language education in Northern Vietnam, enabling students to benefit from structured programs aligned with international standards.
In terms of academic development, both sides also agreed to accelerate the establishment of an off-quota international joint training program, aiming to begin enrollment in the 2027–2028 academic year. At the same time, a fully funded master’s scholarship program in Korea for students majoring in Mechanical Engineering will be introduced, contributing to the development of high-quality human resources.
As noted during the meeting, both sides engaged in in-depth discussions on plans to jointly organize academic activities and collaborative research, as well as to host promotional events and international exchange days in the near future, thereby enhancing the image and standing of each institution.
In concluding the meeting, the leadership of Thuyloi University requested the relevant units to promptly implement the assigned tasks, ensuring both progress and quality of the cooperation activities. They also reaffirmed their strong commitment to deepening and enhancing the effectiveness of the partnership between the two universities, making meaningful contributions to the internationalization of higher education in Vietnam.
The meeting opened up numerous new opportunities for collaboration, laying an important foundation for Thuyloi University to continue its development toward a modern, integrated, and sustainable future.
Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation
Within the framework of implementing the 2026 external relations program, a delegation from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment of Vietnam, led by Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam, paid a working visit to Mexico from April 1 to 4. The delegation included Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet, President of Thuyloi University, along with representatives from relevant professional units.
The visit contributed to consolidating the traditional friendship and enhancing political trust between Vietnam and Mexico, while opening up new directions for cooperation in a more substantive, effective, and sustainable manner in the agricultural sector.
During discussions, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in research and the application of high technologies in agricultural production; expand import–export markets for agricultural products; and place particular emphasis on developing high-quality human resources.
Notably, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment of Vietnam highlighted and proposed that the Mexican side enhance cooperation in water security- an issue of strategic importance for sustainable agricultural development and climate change adaptation. At the same time, both sides agreed to promote linkages in training high-quality human resources, with Thuyloi University reaffirmed as one of Vietnam’s leading higher education institutions in irrigation, water resources, disaster prevention, and technical infrastructure.
The participation of Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet in the delegation further strengthened the connection between state management agencies and educational and research institutions. Thuyloi University not only excels in training engineers and experts in water and environmental fields but also serves as a center for research and technology transfer supporting sustainable agricultural development, water resource management, and climate change adaptation.
As part of the visit, the delegation held working sessions with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Mexico, the Mexican Business Council for Foreign Trade, Investment and Technology (COMCE), and the National Institute for Forestry, Agriculture and Livestock Research (INIFAP), and also conducted field visits to modern agricultural production models.
At the meeting with Mexico’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development, Julio Berdegué Sacristán, both sides reviewed past cooperation results and discussed issues of mutual interest, including strengthening food security, expanding agricultural markets, improving food safety standards, and promoting climate-smart agriculture.
The two sides also proposed various solutions to enhance cooperation in the coming period, focusing on promoting delegation exchanges at all levels, establishing specialized working groups, expanding markets for key products, and strengthening collaboration in education and scientific research.
During the working session with INIFAP, cooperation areas were further specified, focusing on sharing advanced agricultural production technologies, scientific research, and training high-quality human resources – fields in which Thuyloi University has extensive experience and strong potential for international cooperation.
Meanwhile, in the meeting with COMCE, both sides agreed to strengthen connections between business communities, support small and medium-sized enterprises, promote bilateral agricultural trade, and leverage the complementary strengths of the two economies to enhance added value and competitiveness of agricultural products.
The outcomes of this working visit not only lay a foundation for promoting a comprehensive and sustainable agricultural partnership between Vietnam and Mexico but also affirm the role of educational and research institutions, including Thuyloi University, in supporting the Government in addressing strategic issues
Earlier, the delegation also met with the Embassy of Vietnam in Mexico and laid flowers at the Monument of President Ho Chi Minh at the Park of Freedom of the Peoples in central Mexico City – a symbol of friendship and solidarity between the peoples of Vietnam and Mexico.
Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation
From March 24 to April 4, 2026, Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet, President of Thuyloi University, joined a delegation of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment on a working visit to Canada and Mexico. The delegation was led by Vice Minister Tran Thanh Nam.
President of Thuyloi University Joins Delegation of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment
As part of the working program in Canada, on March 25, 2026, the delegation visited the Ottawa Research and Development Centre (ORDC) and toured an experimental farm model, gaining insights into the application of science and technology in modern agriculture. On the same day, the delegation held a bilateral meeting with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) to exchange views on agricultural development policies, agri-food trade, and potential cooperation opportunities between the two countries.
President of Thuyloi University Engages in High-Level Meetings with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
On March 26, 2026, the delegation is scheduled to meet with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), focusing on quality standards and food safety regulations- key elements in the global agricultural value chain. In the afternoon, the delegation will continue its program with a working session at Global Affairs Canada to discuss directions for international cooperation, trade policies, and market connectivity.
The delegation will also engage with the SAFEGRO food safety project, gaining insights into public–private partnership models in this field.
Preside
nt Nguyen Trung Viet Delivers Remarks at Official Meeting
According to the program, following the activities in Ottawa, the delegation will travel to Vancouver (Canada) to explore retail distribution systems, assess market demand for agricultural products, and engage with regulatory agencies and technology training institutions. This presents an important opportunity to strengthen the linkage between education, research, and international market practices.
The working program will then continue in Mexico, including meetings with the Ministry of Agriculture of Mexico, agricultural business associations, and field visits. The discussions will focus on promoting agri-food trade, developing value chains, applying technology, and expanding cooperation in education and research between institutions and organizations of the two countries.
The participation of the President of Thuyloi University in this mission not only contributes to strengthening international cooperation in agriculture and environmental sectors but also opens up new opportunities for collaboration in education, scientific research, and technology transfer, thereby enhancing the University’s position and international integration in the coming years.
Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation
On March 17, 2026, at Thuyloi University, the Faculty of Civil Engineering held a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony with OpenUp Construction (Japan) and L&A Joint Stock Company. The event marked an important milestone in strengthening collaboration between the university and industry, aiming to enhance the quality of education in alignment with practical demands.
Prior to the ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Canh Thai, Vice President of Thuyloi University, hosted a meeting and discussion with representatives of the two companies. During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on cooperation orientations, workforce development needs, and the potential for implementing joint programs in the future.
Attending the signing ceremony, representatives from Thuyloi University included: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Thang – Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Director of the Institute of Civil Engineering; Dr. Le Quang Tuan – Deputy Head of the Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thanh Tung – Vice Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vo Hoang Hung – Director of the Center for Training and Technology Transfer Cooperation; and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trong Tu – Head of the Department of Construction Technology and Engineering.
Representing the companies were Mr. Hiroshi Hokari – CEO of OpenUp Construction; Mr. Genji Nakazawa – General Director of OpenUp Vietnam; Mr. Ryuta Imazeki – Director of OpenUp Vietnam; and Ms. Pham Thi My Le – Chair of the Board of Directors of L&A Joint Stock Company.
At the ceremony, the parties discussed and agreed on key areas of cooperation, including: strengthening the linkage between education and industry; creating international internship and employment opportunities for students; promoting academic exchange and professional collaboration; and jointly developing high-quality human resources in the field of construction.
The signing of this MoU not only reinforces the partnership between Thuy Loi University and its corporate partners but also opens up numerous opportunities for learning, practical training, and career development for students of the Faculty of Civil Engineering in the context of global integration. In the coming time, the parties expect to effectively implement the agreed contents, thereby delivering tangible benefits to the university, businesses, and learners.
Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation
On January 30, 2026, Thuyloi University (TLU) welcomed and held a working session with a delegation from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), Taiwan. The meeting aimed to promote bilateral cooperation in education, scientific research, and academic exchange between the two higher education institutions. The NYCU delegation included professors from the College of Engineering: Prof. Albert T. Yeung, Associate Dean for International Affairs, College of Engineering, and Assoc. Prof. Minh-Tu Cao, faculty member in Civil Engineering.
Photo: Vice President Nguyen Canh Thai in discussion with Prof. Albert T. Yeung
In his welcome remarks, Vice President Nguyen Canh Thai expressed his pleasure in receiving the delegation from NYCU to visit and work with Thuyloi University. He emphasized that the cooperative relationship between the two institutions has achieved encouraging progress in recent years. In particular, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in June between the Faculty of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Thuyloi University, and the College of Engineering, NYCU, marked an important milestone and laid a solid foundation for the implementation of concrete collaborative activities in the future.
Building on this foundation, the current meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to engage in in-depth discussions on expanding cooperation in the next phase. The two universities explored the possibility of broadening collaboration beyond the faculty level, gradually moving toward larger-scale, interdisciplinary, and long-term partnership programs.
Đại diện lãnh đạo Khoa Công trình, Khoa Điện-Điện tử và Khoa Cơ Khí của Nhà trường cũng đề xuất các nội dung hợp tác tiềm năng với NYCU như tăng cường trao đổi giảng viên và sinh viên; phối hợp xây dựng và triển khai các chương trình trao đổi ngắn hạn, dài hạn; hợp tác đưa sinh viên tham gia các chương trình thực tập và nghiên cứu tại NYCU. Bên cạnh đó, hai bên cũng đặc biệt quan tâm đến khả năng hợp tác trong lĩnh vực bán dẫn, bao gồm đào tạo nguồn nhân lực, nghiên cứu khoa học, chuyển giao tri thức và nâng cao năng lực nghiên cứu trong các lĩnh vực liên quan như vi điện tử, thiết kế vi mạch khoa học vật liệu.
Representatives from Faculty of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, and Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at Thuyloi University proposed several potential areas of cooperation with NYCU. These include strengthening faculty and student exchanges; jointly developing and implementing short-term and long-term exchange programs; and facilitating student participation in internships and research programs at NYCU. In addition, both sides showed particular interest in collaboration in the field of semiconductors, including human resource development, scientific research, knowledge transfer, and capacity building in related areas such as microelectronics, integrated circuit (IC) design, and materials science.
The two universities also agreed to promote joint research activities through the co-implementation of research projects and scientific initiatives; the co-organization of international academic conferences and workshops; and the establishment of an open academic environment that enables faculty members and students from both institutions to exchange expertise, share research experience, and access emerging trends in science and technology.
As part of the program, representatives from NYCU delivered an information session to Thuyloi University students, introducing the international learning environment at NYCU’s College of Engineering. The scholarship presentation for international students attracted significant interest from TLU students. The session was lively, with numerous questions regarding admission requirements, academic programs, research opportunities, and career prospects after graduation, demonstrating students’ strong interest in and aspiration to participate in international exchange, study, and research programs.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides highly appreciated the discussion outcomes and agreed to maintain regular communication and close coordination to gradually implement the agreed cooperation initiatives in the coming period. The visit and working session of the NYCU delegation marked a promising step forward in enhancing collaboration in education, scientific research, and the development of high-quality human resources.
Department of Science, Technology and International Cooperation
Photos: Department of Political and Student Affairs
On the morning of January 29, Thuyloi University (TLU) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed the Record of Discussions (R/D) to implement a SATREPS project on a disaster early warning system.
The project focuses on developing an early warning system for landslides and debris flows in Central Vietnam, with a pilot implementation in Hue City. It is based on integrated risk assessment and digital platforms, aiming to minimize losses caused by these types of disasters, which have been increasing in frequency and intensity in the context of climate change.
The project document was officially approved for adjustment by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment under Decision No. 5925 dated December 31, 2025, providing the legal basis for the project’s formal implementation phase.
Thuyloi University and JICA sign the Record of Discussions for the SATREPS project on January 29. Photo: Bao Thang.
At the signing ceremony, Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet, President of Thuyloi University, stated that the SATREPS project marks the beginning of a meaningful research and technology transfer cooperation program between Vietnam and Japan, directly addressing urgent natural disaster challenges.
According to Prof. Viet, in 2025 alone, natural disasters caused particularly severe damage in many localities, including Hue, which experienced consecutive episodes of heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides that significantly affected people’s livelihoods, infrastructure, and cultural heritage sites.
“In 2025, Hue City experienced three major flood events, with average rainfall exceeding 40% compared to the same period in previous years, resulting in prolonged inundation in many areas,” he emphasized. He also affirmed that, as the Vietnamese project managing institution, the University will mobilize maximum scientific resources, human capacity, and facilities to ensure the project is implemented on schedule and meets quality requirements.
A key priority is to closely coordinate with domestic and international partners, particularly local authorities and specialized agencies in Hue City, to develop scientifically sound, practical, and highly applicable landslide and debris flow forecasting models.
The SATREPS project aims to develop large-scale hazard maps for landslides and debris flows; establish and digitalize an early warning system to enhance connectivity and risk communication to communities; and integrate advanced computational models such as TAG_FLOW with InSAR remote sensing data. The project will also establish a specialized laboratory for landslide assessment.
In parallel, training and capacity-building activities will be conducted for Vietnamese managers, researchers, and students in the field of disaster risk assessment.
Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet, President of Thuyloi University. Photo: Bao Thang.
From the Japanese side, Mr. Kobayashi Yosuke, Chief Representative of the JICA Vietnam Office, noted that the urgency of the project has become increasingly evident through recent heavy rains, floods, and landslides in Central Vietnam, including mountainous areas near the pilot sites in Hue.
He emphasized that timely warnings, clear communication, and accessible tools play a crucial role in protecting lives and livelihoods. According to Mr. Kobayashi, the project’s objectives go beyond academic outputs and must generate tangible impacts. JICA will continue to promote close collaboration among researchers, government agencies, and implementing bodies in both countries to transform models, data, and digital platforms into practical early warning and decision-support tools usable in daily community life.
The project is scheduled to be implemented from June 2026 to June 2030, with a total budget of approximately USD 3.43 million (equivalent to over VND 89 billion). The majority of the funding comes from non-refundable ODA provided by the Government of Japan, supplemented by Vietnamese counterpart funding and financial support from the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) for Japanese partners.
Mr. Kobayashi Yosuke, Chief Representative of the JICA Vietnam Office. Photo: Bao Thang.
Thuyloi University will collaborate with Gunma University, along with other universities and research institutes from both countries and local management agencies in Hue, to implement the project.
The signing of the Record of Discussions marks the official launch of the SATREPS project in Vietnam. According to participating parties, the project’s outcomes are expected not only to enhance forecasting and early warning capacity for landslides and debris flows in Central Vietnam, but also to establish a replicable model of science and technology cooperation contributing to safe and sustainable development in the context of increasingly evident climate change.
Previously, on April 29, Thuyloi University held a ceremony to announce the project.
SATREPS (Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development) is an international science and technology cooperation initiative launched by the Government of Japan to address global challenges through collaboration between Japanese researchers and partners in developing countries. The program focuses on four main research areas: environment and energy; biological resources; disaster prevention and mitigation; and infectious disease control.
(TLU) – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung, a distinguished alumnus of Thuyloi University, has officially been appointed Acting Director of the North Dakota Water Resources Research Institute (NDWRRI). This appointment marks a significant milestone in his academic career in the United States and is a source of pride for the entire Thuyloi University alumni community.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung (far left) poses for a commemorative photo with colleagues and students at North Dakota State University (NDSU), USA.
According to an official announcement from North Dakota State University (NDSU), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung – currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering – will assume leadership of NDWRRI, one of 54 Water Resources Research Institutes nationwide under the National Institutes for Water Resources (NIWR) system, administered by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
A new responsibility amid growing water resource challenges
The appointment of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung comes at a time when water demand in the state of North Dakota has increased sharply, driven by rapid growth in agriculture and industrial sectors in recent years.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung, faculty member of the Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering at NDSU, conducting research on river ice processes.
Sharing his perspective on the new role, the newly appointed Acting Director stated: “I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to apply my expertise in service of the state of North Dakota. I have set two immediate priorities: first, to strengthen the Institute’s standing by broadly disseminating research outcomes to key stakeholders; and second, to ensure that NDWRRI’s expertise directly addresses the state’s pressing needs in water resources planning and monitoring.”
He further emphasized that one of NDWRRI’s key challenges is to foster an open environment in which experts can freely exchange perspectives and collaborate to identify appropriate solutions. “This also presents an opportunity to build a strong NDWRRI community—one that is well prepared to advise policymakers at critical moments,” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung added.
The Civil and Environmental Engineering Building at NDSU, where he teaches and conducts research.
Trust from the leadership of NDSU University
Commenting on the appointment, Ms. Heidi Grunwald, Interim Vice President for Research and Creative Activity at NDSU, expressed strong confidence in Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung’s leadership: “We are very pleased to welcome Dr. Trung as Acting Director. His deep expertise in hydrology is exactly what NDWRRI needs to proactively navigate this critical period.”
Ms. Grunwald also emphasized that Dr. Trung’s energy and national professional network will serve as a driving force in expanding partnerships and advancing new research directions, benefiting the Red River Valley and the entire state of North Dakota.
Academic foundations at Thuyloi University
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung is an alumnus of Cohort 40, majoring in Hydrology, and a former faculty member of the Faculty of Water Resources Engineering at Thuyloi University. He earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Minnesota in 2011, joined North Dakota State University in 2018, and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2024.
Over the past two decades, he has devoted his research to hydraulics and hydrology, with a particular focus on river ice jam forecasting – a critical issue in cold-region environments. In 2023, his outstanding research achievements were recognized with the prestigious CAREER Award from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF).
With his new role, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung continues to affirm the intellectual capacity of Vietnamese scholars on the global academic stage, while serving as an inspiring role model of lifelong learning and scientific dedication for students of Thuyloi University.
Source: North Dakota State University (NDSU)
“I came to Thuyloi University in 1998 as a student of Cohort 40V, carrying with me a strong passion for learning and a desire to explore science. Those years were filled with creativity and energy—from academic study and research to cultural and sports activities. Together with my peers, we established the Student Informatics Club and participated in major academic competitions. Under the dedicated guidance of my professors, I had the opportunity to achieve high awards at the National Mechanics Olympiads, gradually engage in scientific research, and complete my undergraduate thesis with distinction, earning the VIFOTEC Award. From Thuyloi University, I continued my academic journey in Thailand and the United States, pursuing research in hydraulics, flow modeling, and water resources. Wherever I am, I always regard Thuyloi University as the place that laid a solid scientific foundation for my career—a spiritual anchor that motivates me to continue contributing to water resources management and disaster mitigation efforts in Vietnam and around the world.” Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung shared.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Bao Trung and colleagues from North Dakota State University presenting testimony before the North Dakota State Water Commission on flooding caused by ice melt in 2024.
