Group photo of representatives from IIT Gandhinagar, IIT Kanpur, and VNUHCM-University of Science.

On the morning of 5 June, VNUHCM-University of Science (HCMUS) held a working session with a visiting delegation from two prominent institutions within the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) system – IIT Gandhinagar and IIT Kanpur. The visit marked a pivotal beginning in establishing academic and research ties with one of India’s foremost organisations in engineering, technology, and interdisciplinary sciences.

Discussion on academic strengths and collaborative directions

Representing HCMUS were Assoc. Prof. Ngô Đại Nghiệp, Head of the Office of External Relations, along with leadership and representatives from several academic units: the Faculties of Biology and Biotechnology, Chemistry, Physics and Engineering Physics, Electronics and Telecommunications, Geology, and Materials Science and Technology.

The delegation from IIT Gandhinagar and IIT Kanpur included Dr. Amit Prashant, Head of Research and Development, Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Gandhinagar; and Dr. Ashish Garg, Head of the Department of Sustainable Energy Engineering, IIT Kanpur.

During the meeting, both parties presented overviews of their academic strengths and research capacities, with emphasis on areas such as sustainable energy, civil engineering, advanced materials, and interdisciplinary technology. The discussion highlighted opportunities for collaboration in the development of specialised academic programmes and applied research initiatives, oriented towards addressing technological and environmental challenges aligned with global sustainability goals.

Proposed directions for cooperation encompassed the development of joint undergraduate and postgraduate training schemes; promotion of academic exchange for students and academic staff; co-organisation of thematic symposia; and implementation of joint, interdisciplinary research projects with practical applications.

Focus areas for joint research initiatives

The occasion also provided an opportunity for extensive dialogue on research themes of global relevance, including nuclear energy, semiconductor materials, photonics, and green hydrogen. These fields were identified as potential pillars for future collaboration, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing technology for an environmentally sustainable future.

Both institutions agreed to pursue further working sessions in the near future, with the aim of formalising the partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement would lay the foundation for a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship between VNUHCM-University of Science and the Indian Institutes of Technology.

The visit represented not only a step towards engagement with a highly respected academic partner but also a reaffirmation of the commitment by HCMUS to promoting international cooperation and enhancing the quality of higher education and scientific research.

PMN