From 27 July to 2 August 2026, a delegation of lecturers and students from the Faculty of Geology, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS), participated in the Taiwan Academic Exchange and Field Experience Programme, jointly organised by the Institute of Mineral Resources Engineering (IMRE), National Taipei University of Technology (NTUT).

The programme marked the second consecutive year in which the Faculty of Geology at HCMUS has joined an international field programme with NTUT. Designed to foster academic exchange, expand international collaboration, and provide opportunities for lecturers and students to explore representative geological systems alongside contemporary research approaches in Earth Sciences, the programme reflects a shared commitment to experiential learning and research cooperation.

The HCMUS delegation included Ms Phạm Thanh Thùy, Research and International Cooperation Assistant at the Faculty of Geology; Mr Nguyễn Tuấn, Student Affairs Adviser at the Faculty of Geology; together with six undergraduate students. Throughout the programme, participants received academic guidance from professors and researchers at IMRE, NTUT, the Department of Geosciences at National Taiwan University (NTU), as well as support from government agencies, research institutes and science museums across Taiwan.

During the programme, the delegation undertook field investigations on the Matsu Islands, examining magmatic geology, granite formations, coastal geomorphology, and geological structures formed within the subduction zone where the Paleo-Pacific Plate descends beneath the Eurasian Plate. Alongside geological studies, participants also explored the relationship between geological heritage, local culture, and the military infrastructure that characterises the islands.

Field activities on the Matsu Islands enabled students to observe geological features directly, connect classroom knowledge with natural geological settings, and strengthen practical skills in field observation, analysis and discussion. Such experience forms a vital component of geological education, particularly in areas including petrology, tectonics, geomorphology and geological resources.

The delegation also visited the National Museum of Natural Science in Taichung, where the exhibition Earth’s Treasures showcases nearly 1,800 mineral and rock specimens. The visit provided lecturers and students with valuable opportunities to study an extensive collection of geological materials, observe modern exhibition practices, and explore approaches to communicating Earth Science knowledge to the wider public.

The programme also introduced current research and technologies in geothermal energy through the thematic session Harmony with Geothermal. At the Taiwan Volcano Observatory in the Tatun Volcano Group, participants exchanged knowledge with specialists on volcanic activity, monitoring systems, early warning technologies, and disaster risk reduction.

A key element of the programme was a working meeting at IMRE, NTUT, where representatives discussed future directions for collaboration in education and research. Discussions focused on academic exchange, joint field research, and the development of collaborative programmes in Earth Sciences.

The Taiwan Academic Exchange and Field Experience Programme not only provided valuable field-based learning opportunities for students but also strengthened professional links between the Faculty of Geology at HCMUS and international scientists, higher education institutions, and research organisations.

Through sustained collaboration with NTUT and partner organisations across Taiwan, the Faculty of Geology continues to broaden opportunities for field-based education, research and international engagement. Such initiatives align closely with the strategic direction of VNUHCM–University of Science in enabling students to engage with advanced knowledge, develop research capability, and build meaningful connections with the regional and global scientific community.