On 2 August, the PiMA 2026 Mathematics and Applications Summer Camp opened at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS). Held under the theme Mathematics in Artificial Intelligence, the nine-day programme brings together 23 upper secondary school students from across Viet Nam for lectures, research projects, seminars and academic exchange activities.

HCMUS has long partnered with PiMA in organising the summer camp, providing an academic environment where talented students can engage with contemporary mathematics, applied research and leading academics.

PiMA, short for Projects in Mathematics and Applications, was established in 2016 by Vietnamese mathematicians affiliated with leading universities around the world. The organisation promotes mathematics through research-based learning while demonstrating the role of mathematical sciences in addressing real-world challenges across science, technology and society.

The year 2026 marks the tenth anniversary of PiMA. Over the past decade, the organisation has inspired students across Viet Nam to explore mathematics beyond the classroom, encouraging research-oriented thinking and introducing learners to modern fields of applied mathematics. What began as an academic summer camp has developed into a platform where young people investigate emerging scientific questions, collaborate in teams and develop research ideas under the guidance of academics, specialists and mentors.

The 2026 theme, Mathematics in Artificial Intelligence, reflects the growing influence of AI across education, research, industry and everyday life. Rather than focusing solely on AI applications, the programme highlights the mathematical principles underpinning machine learning, pattern recognition and predictive modelling, enabling participants to recognise mathematics as a foundation for technologies shaping the modern world.

Throughout the programme, participants will attend specialist lectures, undertake collaborative research projects, participate in seminars led by experts and engage in academic discussions with fellow students. Guidance will be provided by academics, specialists and mentors from universities, research institutes and industry in Viet Nam and overseas. The programme also offers opportunities to strengthen teamwork, academic communication and presentation skills while building connections with peers who share a passion for mathematics and scientific discovery.