On 23 October 2026, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The High Energy Accelerator Research Organization (KEK), Japan, to promote academic exchange and research collaboration in high-energy physics, accelerator technology, materials science, life sciences and computer science.

The KEK delegation included Mr Shoji Asai, Director General; Mr Kazunori Hanagaki, Executive Director; and KEK professors, scientists and staff members. Representing VNUHCM–University of Science were Assoc. Prof. Dr Trần Lê Quan, Rector; Assoc. Prof. Dr Võ Hồng Hải, Deputy Head of the Office of External Relations; and representatives of academic units, lecturers and researchers.

Under the MoU, the two institutions agreed to establish a framework for collaboration across five areas: experimental and theoretical high-energy physics; the development of instrumentation related to accelerator technology; materials science; life sciences; and computer science.

The agreed forms of collaboration include student participation in academic and research activities; exchanges of lecturers, researchers, scientific documents and information; joint research projects; and the organisation of conferences and specialist workshops. The MoU also provides for the exchange of personnel and equipment to support collaborative research, subject to specific agreements between the two parties. Further discussions will determine the scope and funding of individual collaborative programmes through subsequent agreements.

The MoU takes effect from the date of signature by both parties and remains valid for five years. The agreement establishes a foundation for VNUHCM–University of Science and KEK to further develop their partnership, build on complementary areas of expertise and expand opportunities for engagement with the international research community in fundamental sciences and advanced technologies.