To advance collaboration in training and research in Wood and Interior Technology, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education (HCMUTE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Canadian Wood Vietnam on the morning of February 14, 2025. This partnership marks a significant step in bridging academia and industry, enhancing the quality of education, and developing a highly skilled workforce for Vietnam’s wood processing sector.

Distinguished Attendees

Representing HCMUTE:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chau Dinh Thanh – Vice President
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Truong Nguyen Luan Vu – Dean, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
Dr. Huynh Phuoc Son – Head, Enterprise Relations Office
Dr. Quach Van Thiem – Head, Wood Technology Department, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
Dr. Nguyen Hai Hoan – Deputy Head, Wood Technology Department, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
MA. Le Phan Nhat Hang  – Deputy Head, Enterprise Relations Office

Representing Canadian Wood Vietnam:

Mr. Peter Bradfield – Senior Technical Advisor
Ms. Nguyen Thi Thuy Hanh  – Marketing Director
Mr. Nguyen Vuong Kim Bao – Deputy Head of Marketing

Strategic Commitments in the MOU

Under the agreement, Canadian Wood Vietnam will support HCMUTE’s Wood and Interior Technology students by donating over 50 cubic meters of sustainably sourced wood from British Columbia, Canada. In the first year, 30 cubic meters will be provided, including premium wood species such as Western Hemlock, Douglas Fir, Western Red Cedar, Yellow Cedar, and SPF (Spruce-Pine-Fir). This contribution aims to enrich students’ hands-on experience in material study and research.

Additionally, Canadian Wood Vietnam will collaborate with the Wood Technology Department to organize specialized training programs on wood properties, processing techniques, and industry applications. These workshops will provide students with cutting-edge knowledge in advanced wood processing technologies, sustainable forestry practices, and market trends. Furthermore, Canadian Wood Vietnam experts will actively participate in lectures, hands-on training, and industry advisory sessions to ensure students gain comprehensive industry insights and practical expertise.

Leadership Perspectives on the Partnership

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chau Dinh Thanh, Vice President of HCMUTE, emphasized: “For over 63 years, HCMUTE has been committed to innovation in education and reinforcing its reputation as a leading technical university. The support of industry partners like Canadian Wood Vietnam plays a crucial role in enhancing training quality and ensuring students are well-prepared for the evolving job market.” He also expressed deep gratitude for Canadian Wood Vietnam's trust and partnership, hoping that this collaboration will bring substantial benefits to students and contribute to the sustainable growth of Vietnam’s wood industry.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chau Dinh Thanh - Vice President of HCMUTE delivered his speech

Ms. Nguyen Thi Thuy Hanh, Marketing Director of Canadian Wood Vietnam, highlighted: “We believe that by working alongside HCMUTE, students will gain exposure to premium imported wood from Canada’s sustainably managed forests. This initiative will enhance their professional skills, deepen their industry knowledge, and better equip them for future careers in wood processing and interior design.”

Ms. Nguyen Thi Thuy Hanh  – Marketing Director of Canadian Wood Vietnam delivered her speech 

Representatives from HCMUTE and Canadian Wood Vietnam exchanged MOUs

A Transformative Step Toward Sustainable and Modern Wood Processing

The MOU signing between HCMUTE and Canadian Wood Vietnam represents a pivotal moment in fostering university-industry collaboration. This partnership unlocks new opportunities for students to access high-quality, sustainably managed wood resources while gaining practical industry knowledge. Beyond strengthening academic training, this initiative is set to drive the Vietnamese wood processing industry towards greater sustainability, innovation, and global competitiveness.

ABOUT CANADIAN WOOD VIETNAM

Canadian Wood Vietnam is part of FII, a provincial agency of British Columbia (B.C.), Canada focused on developing markets for forest products. Canadian Wood promotes B.C. and Canada as a global supplier of quality, environmentally responsible wood products from sustainably managed forests. Through market development programs, Canadian Wood works closely to support Vietnam’s wood industry professionals including furniture manufacturers, designers and wholesalers to educate and inform about the advantages of using B.C. wood products.  

For more information about Canadian Wood Vietnam, please visit:  

Website: https://www.canadianwood.com.vn/en/home/  

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/canadianwoodvn  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canadian-wood-vn