Delegates cut the ribbon to launch the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute in HCM City on June 18. — Photo courtesy of the institute

HCM CITY — The University of Sydney on June 18 announced the official launch of the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute, a non-profit social enterprise wholly owned by the University of Sydney.

Its mission is to conduct multidisciplinary research across various fields such as health, agriculture, arts, social sciences, business, and Net Zero initiatives, aiming to bring about prosperity for both countries. Supported by up to AUD40-45 million (US$26.6-30 million) in non-profit funding from the Australian government and international donors, all revenue generated by the institute will be reinvested into research activities in Việt Nam.

Rooted in the success story of several university-led research projects previously conducted through and in affiliation with the Woolcock Institute in Việt Nam, the University of Sydney extends its dedication and investment to fostering innovation, strengthening partnerships in the country, and driving positive change through the new institute.

The institute aims to collaborate closely with academic organisations and researchers, improving in-country scientific capacity, and contributing to the region’s economic and social development. Throughout the journey, each party will assign research experts to directly participate in the project for collaborative implementation. This form of co-operation is assessed to be highly effective, benefitting all collaborators while also enhancing Việt Nam's scientific research capabilities.

Professor Nguyễn Thu Anh, Executive Director and Head of Research, the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute, said: “The University of Sydney Vietnam Institute has enormous potential to drive collaboration, innovation, and positive impact in Việt Nam and beyond. We are committed to enhancing global engagement, research excellence, and societal impact. We look forward to collaborating with domestic and international organisations and individuals to build a robust platform that enhances multidisciplinary research capacity and improves the quality of life for local and global communities.”

The establishment of the Institute marks a significant milestone in enhancing scientific research and innovation capabilities in Việt Nam, as the institute is one of the first foreign-invested social enterprises operating in the field of science and technology, with its headquarters located in HCM City and two offices in Hà Nội and Cần Thơ.

Professor Emma Johnston, Deputy Vice Chancellor Research, the University of Sydney, stated: “The University of Sydney is extremely proud to launch the institute, which honours our commitment to research and engagement in Việt Nam. It builds on a long history of collaboration with Vietnamese researchers, students, industry, and government departments.

“As our flagship research initiative in Việt Nam it will support current and future leaders, and be a hub for advanced research and innovative ideas, continuing to deepen the engagement between the university and Việt Nam,” she said.

Within the framework of the event was the Sydney Việt Nam Innovation Symposium, which brings together university leaders, researchers, and scholars from both Sydney and Việt Nam to discuss and share experience from decades of collaboration, aiming to strengthen research and innovation partnerships. — VNS