VinUni: Leading the innovation journey for a green future
On December 6-7, 2024, VinUni proudly initiated and organized the first Open Innovation International Conference in Vietnam, themed “For a Green Future.” This event is not only a significant occasion but also a milestone marking VinUni’s pioneering role in driving interdisciplinary innovative initiatives towards sustainable development.
Overview of the conference with the participation of 250 experts and guests from 12 countries
The event was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Science and Technology and leading academic partners worldwide: Saïd Business School (University of Oxford), SC Johnson College of Business (Cornell University), and the Center for International Development (Duke University). This is the first conference in Vietnam that brings together the academic, policy, and practical sectors, aiming to create a forum for connecting ideas, sharing experiences, and proposing breakthrough solutions for a green economy.
VinUni – The convergence of knowledge and innovation
The conference was not only global in scale but also clearly highlighted VinUni’s unique imprint as a research-oriented university with a mission to create sustainable impact. With modern facilities, an advanced educational philosophy, and a comprehensive innovation ecosystem, VinUni demonstrated its capacity to organize an international-level event.
VinUni is not just the host but also the initiator of ideas and solutions, from shaping the theme “For a Green Future” to connecting the brightest minds in technology, policy, and the environment. This is a vivid demonstration of VinUni’s central role in leading innovation initiatives in the region and globally.
Bringing together diverse perspectives
The conference stood out with the participation of renowned scholars such as Professor Soumitra Dutta (Dean of Saïd Business School, University of Oxford) and Professor Edmund J. Malesky (Director of the Center for International Development, Duke University). These speakers provided strategic perspectives on innovation in the context of the green transition.
Professor Soumitra Dutta emphasized that Vietnam is standing at a golden opportunity for breakthrough development, thanks to its creative workforce and potential for a green economy. He also proposed integrating green education at all levels to build a sustainable human resource foundation.
Regarding the sectors in Vietnam with the greatest potential for breakthroughs in green innovation, Professor Dutta stated that all economic sectors have the potential for innovation, particularly high-tech industries, agriculture, seafood, and tourism.
Professor Soumitra Dutta sharing at the conference
Meanwhile, Professor Edmund J. Malesky presented the importance of policies as catalysts to promote green growth. He stressed that to achieve the Net Zero goal, Vietnam must continue to invest heavily in renewable energy, such as wind and solar power, and move towards developing nuclear energy. Professor Malesky stated, “To achieve this goal, Vietnam needs a very clear safety policy framework to protect citizens, and I also agree with General Secretary To Lam’s direction that the green transition cannot happen without nuclear power.”
Professor Edmund J. Malesky giving a lecture on the subject
Strategic Vision and Future Orientation
The conference was not only a place to share knowledge but also created a space for researchers, businesses, and governments to propose creative solutions. In-depth discussions on green transition, green education, and green healthcare attracted nearly 250 authors from 12 countries. The ideas shared were not only academic but also aimed at practical application, creating long-lasting sustainable impact.
Commitment to a Sustainable Future
As the organizer and initiator of the conference, VinUni reaffirmed its strong commitment to promoting innovation to address global challenges. The 2024 conference is just the beginning, opening up a long-term journey to build a sustainable ecosystem where education, policy, and practice blend together to create a green future for Vietnam and the world.
In the context of globalization and the green transition, VinUni has demonstrated that innovation comes not only from modern technologies but also from strategic vision, comprehensive collaboration, and responsibility to the community. This is why VinUni is gradually asserting its pioneering position on the global innovation map.
