On the morning of 5 August, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) signed a cooperation agreement with the International College of Semiconductor Technology (ICST), National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU, Taiwan), marking a significant step towards strengthening collaboration in semiconductor education and research.

NYCU is recognised for excellence in semiconductor education and research, supported by strong links with Taiwan’s semiconductor industry ecosystem.

A key component of the agreement is the introduction of a 1+1 Master’s joint study pathway, allowing students to spend one year at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) and one year at NYCU. Alongside the Master’s programme, both institutions agreed to strengthen collaborative research, academic exchanges involving faculty members, researchers and students, and the joint development of education and research activities in semiconductor technology.

Following the signing ceremony, the two institutions held a Seminar & Discussion featuring researchers from both sides. ICST presentations were delivered by Prof. Kuan-Neng Chen, Assoc. Prof. Yu-Sheng Su, Dr Chun-Hao Chen, Assoc. Prof. Chang-Ching Tu, and Assoc. Prof. Niall Tumilty, covering lithium chemistry for next-generation batteries, advanced packaging technologies, power semiconductor devices, and semiconductor materials.

Representing VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS), presentations were delivered by Assoc. Prof. Lê Đức Hùng, Dr Nguyễn Quang Khôi, Assoc. Prof. Phạm Kim Ngọc, Prof. Trần Thị Thanh Vân, and Assoc. Prof. Vũ Thị Hạnh Thu. Presentations highlighted research achievements and future directions in Edge AI System-on-Chip (Edge AI SoC), semiconductor optoelectronics, memristor materials, rare-earth-doped luminescent materials, together with broader research directions in semiconductors and photonics.

Discussion centred on advanced packaging technologies, semiconductor materials, power semiconductor devices for electric vehicles and artificial intelligence, Edge AI System-on-Chip (Edge AI SoC), and optoelectronics, while also identifying promising opportunities for future collaborative research between the two institutions.

As part of the programme, the HCMUS delegation visited NYCU’s Nano Center/Cleanroom. The visit provided opportunities to explore cleanroom facilities, microchip fabrication and testing processes, and the centre’s research infrastructure. The programme also enabled further discussions on future collaboration in education and research, together with academic exchanges involving faculty members and students.

The cooperation agreement establishes a strong foundation for VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) and the International College of Semiconductor Technology to expand joint education programmes, scientific research, and academic exchange in semiconductor technology.