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 Viet Nam – 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 Viet Nam. 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 Viet Nam and the Lao PDR.