On 30th September, the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST) collaborated with the University of Science, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, to organise a meaningful gathering for JAIST alumni. The event took place in a warm and intimate atmosphere, with representatives from both institutions in attendance.

From the University of Science, the following attendees were present:
– Assoc. Prof. Trần Minh Triết – Vice President;
– Prof. Lê Hoài Bắc – Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Information Technology;
– Assoc. Prof. Ngô Đại Nghiệp – Head of the External Relations Office;
– Assoc. Prof. Nguyễn Văn Vũ – Vice Dean of the Faculty of Information Technology, along with lecturers who were also JAIST alumni, and students from the faculty;
– Dr. Nguyễn Phước Trung Hòa – Vice Dean of the Faculty of Materials Science and Technology, together with lecturers who were also JAIST alumni, and students from the faculty.

From JAIST, the event was graced by:
– Prof. Terano Minoru – President;
– Prof. Ryuhei Uehara – Vice President;
– Prof. Kazuhiro Ogata;
– Prof. Nguyễn Lê Minh.

The programme comprised three sessions:
1. Meeting with Leaders: The opening session featured the leadership from both sides, alongside representatives from the Faculty of Information Technology and the Faculty of Materials Science and Technology. The practical exchanges aimed at strengthening the cooperative relationship between the two institutions, creating a warmly connected and friendly atmosphere.

2. Interaction between Learners and Alumni: The interactive segment was characterised by enthusiasm, commencing with an opening speech from JAIST’s leadership. Prof. Kazuhiro Ogata discussed opportunities for admission, scholarships, and training programmes at JAIST, and provided guidance on how to build a network for alumni in Viet Nam.

3. Seminar by Prof. Ryuhei Uehara: The presentation titled “Computational Complexity of Puzzles and Related Topics” captured considerable attention from all participants. In his talk, Prof. Uehara introduced intriguing concepts regarding the interest of mathematicians and computer scientists in computational issues related to games and puzzles, paving the way for new research directions in this area.

The gathering not only provided an opportunity for JAIST alumni to connect but also allowed both the alumni and the University to strengthen and develop their relationship with the institute. Discussions regarding potential collaboration in research and development promised to create numerous new prospects for the future.