On October 30, 2026, the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH) and Hiroshima University (Japan) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), laying the foundation for bilateral cooperation in training and scientific research between the two universities.
Representing Hiroshima University at the signing ceremony were Prof. Shinji Kaneko, Executive Vice President; Prof. Tran Dang Xuan and Prof. Nguyen Van Thinh, academics at the Graduate School for International Development and Cooperation (IDEC Institute).
The USTH delegation included Assoc. Prof. Tran Dinh Phong, Vice-Rector; Prof. Patrice Estellé, Director of the Department of Research and International Affairs; Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Quang Huy, Deputy Director of the Life Science Department; Dr. Nguyen Duc Anh, Deputy Director of the Department of Chemical and Environmental Technology.
The agreement resulted from a series of discussions and exchanges between the two universities, particularly following the visit of Assoc. Prof. Tran Dinh Phong to Hiroshima University from October 7 to 10, 2026.
Under the signed agreement, USTH and Hiroshima University agreed to promote cooperation by building on their respective strengths in education and research, focusing on five priority areas: environment, energy, life science, mechatronics, and semiconductors.
In research, the two universities aim to collaborate on joint research projects, strengthen connections between research groups, and explore opportunities to establish joint research laboratories. Both institutions will also consider exchanging academic information and materials, as well as sharing facilities and laboratories for teaching and research, subject to the available resources and regulations of each university.
In education, the two universities seek to promote exchange programs for faculty members, researchers, and students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Potential activities include internships, research visits, academic visits, and scientific exchange activities, thereby expanding opportunities for faculty members and students to engage in international education and research environments.
Established in 1949, Hiroshima University is one of Japan’s leading comprehensive research universities, with strengths in education and research across a wide range of disciplines, including natural sciences, engineering, technology, life sciences, medicine, pharmacy, social sciences, and humanities. The university currently comprises 12 undergraduate schools, four graduate schools, and one research institute. The student body of over 15,000 includes about 2,000 international students from 99 countries or regions. Hiroshima University places strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, international collaboration, and contributing to solutions to global challenges, particularly in the field of sustainable development.
The signing ceremony marks a significant milestone and a new step forward in the partnership between USTH and Hiroshima University. Building on the agreement, the two universities will continue discussions to translate their cooperation priorities into concrete programs and activities, fostering a sustainable and effective partnership that contributes to enhancing the quality of education and research at both institutions.
