On the morning of October 27, 2025, the University of Sciences and Technology of Hanoi (USTH) officially welcomed a delegation of experts from the High Council for Evaluation of Research and Higher Education (HCERES) of France, as part of the external evaluation process for 4 undergraduate training programs under the Department of Technology and Engineering. Taking place from October 27 to 29, 2025, this evaluation represents a significant milestone in USTH’s journey toward international accreditation and continued enhancement of quality assurance in higher education.
Earlier that morning, the HCERES delegation paid a visit to the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) – USTH’s governing body.. The delegation was received and the meeting was chaired by Prof. Trần Hồng Thái, Standing Vice President of VAST and Chairman of the USTH University Council.
Speaking at the meeting, Prof. Trần Hồng Thái highly appreciated the significance of the external evaluation conducted by HCERES, considering it an opportunity for USTH to further enhance the quality of its education and research, thereby affirming the university’s academic reputation.
Prof. Trần Hồng Thái highlighted that VAST is actively implementing plans to upgrade laboratories and research equipment, while also expanding USTH’s access to leading research institutions and top experts. These efforts aim to foster an environment conducive to high-quality teaching and scientific collaboration. He reaffirmed VAST’s continued commitment to supporting USTH in developing its scientific resources and infrastructure, striving to meet international standards in both education and research.
In addition, Prof. Trần Hồng Thái emphasized VAST’s orientation in implementing Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW of the Politburo, issued on December 22, 2024, on breakthroughs in the development of science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation. He viewed this as an important foundation for USTH to further promote its strengths in education closely linked with research and practical applications.
He also expressed his hope for continued cooperation and support from French and international partners, especially in developing key fields such as nuclear energy, materials science, and advanced technologies. These efforts will help realize USTH’s vision of becoming a model university for international cooperation in education and research in Vietnam.
HCERES expert delegation conducts evaluation activities at USTH
Immediately after their working session with representatives of VAST, the HCERES expert delegation visited USTH.
At USTH, the delegation held discussions and working sessions with USTH’s Rector Board, leaders of the Department of Technology and Engineering, and other relevant units. The purpose was to carry out an external evaluation of four undergraduate training programs: Mechatronic Engineering Technology, Automotive Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Renewable Energy, and Aeronautical Engineering.
USTH welcomes the HCERES experts
On behalf of the university, Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest, Principal Rector of USTH, gave an overview and highlighted key milestones in the university’s development journey.
According to Prof. Lavest, USTH is currently experiencing strong growth in both scale and quality. To meet this expansion, the university has recruited additional lecturers, expanded its facilities for training and research, and launched the supporting English programs (B0) to improve students’ English proficiency before they officially enter the international-standard curriculum.
The USTH’s Rector Board also emphasized the university’s ongoing efforts to attract students nationwide.
Towards International Standards and Sustainable Development
In the coming years, USTH aims to reach 5,000 students by 2028 and expand to 10,000 students after 2030, while continuously enhancing the quality of education and research, strengthening international integration, and attracting students and scholars from France and around the world. The university aspires to become a bridge for scientific, technological, and educational cooperation between Vietnam, France, and Europe.
Regarding international cooperation, Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest shared: “In the academic year 2024–2025, USTH welcomes 150 French students to study at the university, while sending an equivalent number of Vietnamese students to France and other European countries through exchange, internship, and double degree programs. Our goal is to become a hub for international students in Southeast Asia, thereby elevating USTH’s position and influence within the regional education network.”
The HCERES delegation highly appreciated USTH’s rapid growth and clear strategic direction in recent years, as well as the strong commitment from VAST to the university. This demonstrates a sustainable educational partnership between Vietnam and France and marks an important step for USTH in affirming its international reputation in higher education and scientific research.
The delegation will continue its assessment at USTH with 15 in-depth working sessions until October 29, 2025.
