Delegates from KNUE and academic staff of HCMUS.

On 23 June, VNUHCM-University of Science (HCMUS) welcomed Professor Sung-Ho Yang and a delegation of 21 students from the Chemistry Education programme at Korea National University of Education (KNUE). The visit took place as part of an academic exchange initiative aimed at strengthening collaboration between the two institutions in the areas of education and scientific research. Particular emphasis was placed on Chemistry, a field identified as a strategic and academic strength shared by both sides.

During the working session, KNUE representatives provided an overview of the university’s educational direction, research activities, and academic support framework. Faculty members from the Faculty of Chemistry, HCMUS and KNUE engaged in focused discussions on curriculum design, integrated approaches to theoretical and practical instruction, and strategies to nurture critical thinking and research capacity in Chemistry Education. Several potential areas for collaboration were explored, including student exchange programmes, the establishment of joint research groups, the co-organisation of international conferences, and plans for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the near future.

Following the meeting, the KNUE delegation visited the lecture rooms and laboratories of the Faculty of Chemistry to observe applied teaching and research activities currently underway at HCMUS. The group also toured the Makerspace, operated by the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Sciences—a cutting-edge educational technology space designed to support STEM teaching. Within a welcoming and dynamic environment, KNUE students participated in both academic and cultural exchange sessions alongside lecturers and students of HCMUS.

The visit provided valuable insights into scientific training models in Viet Nam and contributed to the development of intercultural communication skills and global citizenship values among the participants, within the context of international higher education.

The visit is considered a significant initial step towards establishing a sustainable partnership between the two institutions. KNUE possesses extensive expertise in training science educators, while HCMUS maintains a strong foundation in advanced research and specialised academic training. Together, the two institutions are well-positioned to develop a collaborative model capable of contributing to the training of highly qualified scientific professionals across the region.

Amidst ongoing transformations in global higher education—driven by innovative pedagogical approaches, technological advancement, and the increasing demand for interdisciplinary competencies—the partnership between HCMUS and KNUE reflects a strategic, forward-looking, and comprehensive vision. Beyond academic exchange, this collaboration also serves as a cultural bridge, laying the groundwork for deeper international integration and long-term sustainable development.

PMN