On 20 May 2026, VNU University of Science (VNU-HUS), Vietnam National University, Hanoi, welcomed a delegation from Guangxi Normal University (GXNU), China, for a strategic meeting aimed at further strengthening collaboration in education, scientific research, and international engagement. This marked the third official leadership-level meeting between the two universities within the past two years, reflecting the strong momentum of a partnership that continues to grow through a range of impactful educational and research initiatives. The meeting demonstrated the shared commitment of both institutions to elevating their cooperation to new heights in the years ahead.
Delegates from Guangxi Normal University and VNU University of Science taking a commemorative photo following discussions on future education and research collaboration
The GXNU delegation was led by Professor Shen Xingcan, Vice President of Guangxi Normal University, and included representatives from the School of Computer Science and Engineering, the College of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, the College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, and the College of International Culture and Education.
Representing VNU-HUS were Professor Ngac An Bang, Vice-Rector, together with colleagues from the Office of Cooperation and Development and leaders from the Faculties of Mathematics, Mechanics and Informatics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Environmental Sciences.
Professor Ngac An Bang and colleagues from VNU University of Science welcoming the GXNU delegation
During the discussions, both sides highlighted that their relationship is built not only upon modern scientific cooperation but also upon a unique historical connection. Guilin, Guangxi, was home to the Vietnam Central School Campus (Nanning Duc Tai School) between 1951 and 1958, an institution that played an important role in educating generations of Vietnamese students and cadres. The region also preserves historical sites associated with President Ho Chi Minh’s revolutionary activities, creating a meaningful foundation for continued educational and cultural exchange.
In addition to these historical ties, the geographical proximity between Vietnam and Guangxi provides favourable conditions for long-term collaboration. Over the past two years, the two universities have successfully implemented a variety of staff and student exchange programmes, alongside regular institutional visits and academic activities. These initiatives have contributed significantly to research cooperation, educational development, and internationalisation efforts at both institutions.
Looking ahead, both universities expressed their aspiration to develop this partnership into a model of educational, scientific, and technological cooperation between universities in Vietnam and China.
The meeting also explored opportunities for deeper collaboration in several areas of shared strength:
Artificial Intelligence and Information Technology
Both sides discussed the growing role of AI in education and interdisciplinary research. By combining GXNU's leading expertise in AI and computer science with the strong research capabilities of VNU-HUS, the two universities see significant potential for innovative joint projects and talent development initiatives.
Biotechnology
Future collaboration will focus on cell technologies, 3D bioprinting, and the conservation and utilisation of valuable genetic resources found in the border regions of Vietnam and China.
Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Materials Science
The two institutions will explore research that bridges modern medicine and traditional medicine, building on GXNU's internationally recognised strengths in Chemistry, Engineering, and Materials Science, disciplines ranked among the top 1% globally.
Environmental and Resource Sciences
VNU-HUS expressed particular interest in Guangxi's remarkable green transformation, from one of China's most environmentally challenged regions to one of its leading examples of sustainable development. Both institutions identified opportunities to collaborate on environmental monitoring, pollution control, and sustainable development solutions, including joint projects on air and water quality monitoring in industrial zones across Vietnam.
Representatives of both universities exchanging ideas on strategic initiatives and future collaborative opportunities
To translate these discussions into tangible outcomes, VNU-HUS and GXNU agreed on several concrete initiatives:
- Jointly organise Summer Schools on Artificial Intelligence and Applications, Chemistry–Biochemistry–Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Carbon Neutrality and Sustainable Ecological Development;
- Provide 40 scholarship places for VNU-HUS students to participate in these programmes;
- Invite faculty members from the Faculties of Chemistry and the Faculty of Biology of VNU-HUS to attend the 4th International Forum on Natural Active Ligand-Based Metal Medicinal Chemistry Conference, combining academic exchange with discussions on future research collaboration;
- Expand bilateral exchange opportunities for academic staff, students, and graduate students/researchers;
- Establish regular online meetings between corresponding faculties to develop collaborative projects and strengthen research cooperation.
Representing their respective institutions, Professor Shen Xingcan and Professor Ngac An Bang exchange commemorative gifts to mark a new chapter of collaboration
The visit concluded in a positive and forward-looking note. Guided by a spirit of openness, practical cooperation, and a shared vision for the future, both universities reaffirmed their commitment to building a partnership that creates meaningful opportunities for academics, researchers, and students. Beyond advancing institutional development, this collaboration is expected to contribute positively to the broader strategic partnership between the higher education systems of Vietnam and China.