On the morning of October 11, 2024, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education (HCMUTE) held a signing ceremony for a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Shandong Normal University (SDNU), China. This agreement marks an important step in expanding international cooperation, particularly in academic exchanges and scientific research, creating new opportunities for collaboration in education and research between the two institutions.
Attendees and Delegation Details
The ceremony saw participation from senior leaders of both universities. Representing HCMUTE was Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Hieu Giang, Acting President, along with key leaders from various faculties and offices, including the Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, the Faculty of International Training, the Faculty of Foreign Languages, the Institute of Technical Education, and the International Relations Office.
On the side of Shandong Normal University, the delegation was led by President Prof. Zhang Jian, accompanied by Prof. Chang Bing - Director of President’s Office, Prof. Zhao Wei - Party Secretary of College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Prof. Zhou Lianyong Director of International Office & Confucius, Prof. Wang Chengxin - Dean of College of Geography & Environment, Prof. Chang Qing - Executive Dean of College of Journalism & Communication, and Mr. Ding Shaopeng – Secretary General of the Shandong-Vietnam University Alliance. Special guests included Dr. Phan Thi Tra My, President of the Vietnamese Business Association in China, and Mrs. Nguyen Thi Tuyet Nga, Director of the Investment and Trade Promotion Center of Thu Duc City.
Representatives from HCMUTE và SDNU at the ceremony
Strategic Goals and Expectations
In his speech, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Hieu Giang emphasized the significance of establishing this strategic partnership. "The signing of this MOU not only broadens the educational collaboration between HCMUTE and SDNU but also opens doors for joint research projects and academic exchanges. We hope to soon introduce Chinese language programs and cultural exchanges for HCMUTE students while also exploring technical and academic partnerships in fields where both universities have strengths," he noted.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Hieu Giang- Acting President of HCMUTE spoke at the signing ceremony
Prof. Zhang Jian also expressed high expectations for this partnership, stating: “As one of the leading universities in Shandong Province, SDNU is proud to establish this partnership with HCMUTE. We have built collaborative relationships with institutions in 37 countries, and this agreement with HCMUTE marks an important milestone in expanding our network in Southeast Asia. We are excited to explore joint academic programs and cultural exchanges, which will enrich the educational experience for students of both countries."
Prof. Zhang Jian – President of SDNU addressed at the ceremony
Key Areas of Cooperation
The MOU outlines several areas for cooperation, including the development of joint training programs, student and faculty exchanges, collaborative research initiatives, and participation in international academic conferences. Both institutions committed to promoting long-term, sustainable cooperation aimed at improving the quality of teaching, research, and cultural exchanges, benefiting both faculty and students.
Ceremonial Highlights
The signing ceremony was conducted in a formal and collaborative atmosphere, with leaders from both universities delivering remarks and emphasizing their mutual aspirations for the future. Following the official signing of the MOU, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Hieu Giang and Prof. Zhang Jian exchanged symbolic gifts, reflecting the spirit of goodwill and partnership between the two universities.
The MOU was signed between HCMUTE and SDNU
Additionally, Mr. Ding Shaopeng - Secretary General of the Shandong-Vietnam University Alliance, stressed the importance of educational collaboration between Vietnam and China. He pledged support for future exchange programs and joint projects, which would further strengthen ties between universities in both countries.
Mr. Ding Shaopeng – Secretary General of the Shandong-Vietnam University Alliance delivered his speech
A Key Milestone in HCMUTE's Global Integration Strategy
The MOU signing with SDNU aligns with HCMUTE's broader vision for the 2024-2025 academic year, which focuses on “Renovation of HCMUTE Management and International Integration”. The partnership reflects the university’s ongoing efforts to elevate its academic and research standards through international cooperation. HCMUTE’s strategic initiative to expand global partnerships, as exemplified by this agreement with SDNU, will enhance the university's reputation and create valuable opportunities for its students and faculty to engage in international learning and research.
The partnership between HCMUTE and SDNU is expected to foster not only academic cooperation but also cultural exchanges, laying the foundation for future collaborations that will benefit both institutions and their communities.
About Shandong Normal University
Founded in 1950, Shandong Normal University is a leading comprehensive university in China, recognized for its excellence in education, particularly in teacher training and the social sciences. With 22 schools and a reputation for fostering high-quality human resources, SDNU has become a key player in both domestic and international academic landscapes. Its longstanding tradition of academic excellence and commitment to international cooperation positions it as a valuable partner for HCMUTE.
Reported by Thanh Nhi
Photos by Quoc Vuong