In recognition of Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest’s outstanding contributions to the development of the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH), as well as his efforts to promote scientific, technological, and higher education cooperation between Vietnam and France, the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) solemnly held a ceremony on August 13, 2026, to present the Medal of Honor to Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest, Principal Rector of USTH.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prof. Tran Hong Thai, President of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, expressed his appreciation for Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest’s contributions during his two terms as Principal Rector of USTH.
According to Prof. Tran Hong Thai, USTH represents a shared achievement of the friendship between the Governments of Vietnam and France. Throughout its establishment and development, the University has received the attention and support of both Governments, as well as the continued engagement of agencies, organizations, and partners from both countries.
However, for commitments made at the governmental level to be translated into concrete, sustainable, and far-reaching outcomes, people—particularly those directly responsible for management, leadership, and implementation—play a decisive role. In this process, Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest has made a distinctive contribution to the development of USTH.
During his two terms as Principal Rector, Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest worked closely with the leadership of VAST, the USTH University Council, and the University’s Rectorate. He devoted significant effort to strengthening the University’s governance model, enhancing the quality of education and research, expanding its international partnership network, and progressively elevating USTH’s position within Vietnam’s higher education system, while reinforcing its role as a symbol of Vietnam-France cooperation.
Prof. Tran Hong Thai highly appreciated Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest’s management vision, sense of responsibility, and innovative initiatives. These contributions have not only focused on enhancing the quality and standing of USTH, but have also reflected a deep commitment to broader issues facing Vietnamese higher education, particularly the development of high-quality human resources, the advancement of science and technology, and the expansion of international cooperation.
Prof. Tran Hong Thai shared that he regarded Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest as “an elder brother and a friend”, who has always shown genuine affection for Vietnam and USTH, together with a strong sense of responsibility and dedication.
The President of VAST also expressed his hope that, regardless of his future position, Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest would continue to take an interest in, follow, and support USTH, while contributing to cooperation between Vietnam and France in science, technology, and higher education.
Expressing his honor at receiving the Medal of Honor, Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest conveyed his sincere appreciation to the leadership of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology for their trust, support, and partnership throughout his two terms. He also expressed his gratitude to the Embassy of France in Vietnam, the USTH Consortium, French and Vietnamese partners, the USTH University Council, the Rectorate, and all staff, lecturers, and employees of the University.
He expressed his hope that the continued strong support and partnership of the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology would provide a solid foundation for USTH to fully leverage its scientific and technological potential, strengthen connections among research institutes, and expand cooperation with partners in Vietnam and abroad, progressively building an internationally competitive education and research ecosystem.
The Medal of Honor awarded by the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology represents not only recognition of Prof. Jean-Marc Lavest’s outstanding contributions and dedication, but also a meaningful milestone in USTH’s journey of cooperation and development. The ceremony took place on the eve of the new academic year, as the University prepares to welcome the Gen17 cohort into the USTH community, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with expectations.
Building on the values cultivated over many years, USTH will continue to leverage its strengths in education and research, strengthen international cooperation, enhance the quality of higher education, and foster a learning environment closely connected with science and technology. In doing so, the University will not only build upon the achievements of previous generations, but also progressively create new values, contributing to the development of Vietnam’s science and technology sector and further affirming its role as a sustainable bridge for scientific, technological, and higher education cooperation between Vietnam and France.
