On 6 June, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Petro Vietnam Paint Joint Stock Company (PV Paint), a subsidiary of the Petrovietnam Maintenance and Repair Corporation (PVMR) and a member of Vietnam National Industry – Energy Group (Petrovietnam).

The event marks a new milestone in the partnership between academia and industry, aiming to bridge the gap between education, scientific research, and commercial operations. This initiative will also accelerate the research and development of advanced materials and paint technologies tailored for the energy sector.

The ceremony was attended by Assoc. Prof. Trần Minh Triết, Vice-President of HCMUS; Mr Vũ Duy Cường, General Director of PV Paint; alongside representatives and leaders from specialist units of both organisations. Notably, the event welcomed Assoc. Prof. Lê Văn Sỹ, Head of the Department of Science, Technology and Digital Transformation, Petrovietnam.

Speaking at the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr Trần Minh Triết emphasised that this partnership represents a major milestone in the strategic expansion of the corporate partner network at HCMUS. According to the Vice-President, connecting the research capabilities of academic scientists with practical industrial needs not only enhances educational quality but also ensures that research outcomes are successfully translated into high-value products and technologies.

The Vice-President reaffirmed that HCMUS will fully leverage a distinguished cohort of experts and scientists, together with modern laboratory facilities, to support the enterprise through the processes of research, technological development, and innovation, thereby addressing pressing challenges within the industry.

Representing the enterprise, Mr Vũ Duy Cường stated that in an increasingly competitive market, developing high-tech paints, nano-coatings, and next-generation surface materials is essential to boost the competitiveness of Vietnamese businesses. PV Paint expects the partnership with HCMUS to unlock opportunities to access cutting-edge research, whilst accelerating the R&D process for novel products with high scientific and technological value.

Collaborative projects will be implemented through the Faculty of Materials Science and Technology, focusing on education, scientific research, technology transfer, and digital transformation.

In education, both parties agreed to co-develop high-quality human resources through internship programmes, industrial site visits, and support for undergraduate dissertations and Master’s theses aligned with practical problems in the coating manufacturing industry. PV Paint will also consider establishing scholarship schemes for students with outstanding academic and research achievements. Furthermore, the two institutions will co-develop specialised modules on paint technology, protective coatings, applied nanomaterials, and related fields to enhance professional competence and career adaptability for students.

Regarding research and technological development, priority areas will focus on next-generation industrial coatings, environmentally friendly materials, anti-fouling solutions to protect marine structures, and advanced nanomaterial systems such as graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and nano-TiO₂ to improve product performance, durability, and added value.

Alongside research activities, both sides agreed to promote technology transfer and the commercialisation of research findings. Projects with viable application potential will be assessed and selected for integration into the manufacturing systems of the company. The Faculty of Materials Science and Technology will support PV Paint in building research capacity and innovation, moving towards the long-term goal of developing a dedicated science and technology enterprise.

Significantly, digital transformation has been identified as a core component of this collaboration. The two organisations will enhance connectivity and share research data, utilising digital technology platforms to optimise research workflows, whilst progressively developing a smart laboratory model that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) into product R&D.

During the working session, representatives from the specialist units of both sides engaged in detailed discussions regarding the roadmap for upcoming collaborative schemes. Both parties agreed to establish a regular coordination mechanism, enhance professional exchanges, and create online communication channels to guarantee operational efficiency. Plans to organise specialised seminars and workshops on paint and coating technologies featuring domestic and international experts were also discussed, aiming to create a high-quality academic and corporate networking forum.

The two organisations also plan to maintain a periodic review mechanism to evaluate implementation results, review collaborative activities, and propose new directions, ensuring that the partnership continues to deepen and remain closely aligned with practical corporate demands and trends within the advanced materials sector.