Undergraduate Since 2022, Can Tho University (CTU) has taken the lead in coordinating with domestic and international partners to organize a series of quarterly online dialogues under the framework of the Sustainable Development of the Mekong Delta – Outlook 2045 (SDMD 2045). This is a strategic initiative aimed at connecting scientists, policymakers, international organizations, and the business community to jointly propose long-term solutions for the sustainable development of the region.
The SDMD Dialogue series has gradually become a reputable forum where scientific initiatives, cooperation models, and regional development orientations are shared and discussed in an open and multidimensional manner. Through 12 dialogue sessions, the program has promoted interdisciplinary, interregional, and international cooperation, contributing to the common goal of building a sustainable and prosperous future for the Mekong Delta.
Following the success of previous dialogues, on March 30, 2026, CTU, in collaboration with domestic and international partners, organized the 13th Quarterly Online SDMD Dialogue under the theme: “Can Tho University – Achievements Over 60 Years and a Vision to 2045: For the Mekong Delta and Vietnam.” The Dialogue was held in celebration of the 60th anniversary of CTU’s establishment and development (March 31, 1966 – March 31, 2026), marking an important milestone in its six-decade journey of contributing to human resource development, scientific research, and community service.
The program was organized at the CTU’s Administration Building
The Dialogue was held in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online participation via the Zoom platform, with the attendance of Mr. Tran Tri Hung - Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee of Can Tho City. The event also received the participation and collaboration of numerous agencies, organizations, associations, enterprises, and corporations, along with a network of international research institutes and universities, including: the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Vietnam; the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO, Australia); Vietnam Global Partner Enterprises Limited; CT Group; Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry branch in Mekong Delta; Viet Uc Seafood Group; Vinarice Co., Ltd.; Aero Asahi Vietnam Co., Ltd.; Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (Japan); Deh Yu College of Nursing and Health (Taiwan); and Nha Trang University. In addition, the Dialogue was attended by leaders of departments and agencies from provinces and cities across the Mekong Delta. From CTU, participants included Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Phuong - Secretary of the Party Committee; Prof. Dr. Ha Thanh Toan - Former Rector; Prof. Dr. Tran Ngoc Hai - Vice Rector; along with representatives from relevant units.
Aligned with the message “Creating Knowledge – Advancing Frontiers” of CTU’s 60th anniversary, the 13th Dialogue served not only as an opportunity to reflect on the University’s outstanding achievements over the past six decades, but also as a platform for academic dialogue to help shape strategic orientations for its next phase of development—particularly in the context of digital transformation, innovation, and the increasing challenges posed by climate change in the Mekong Delta.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Phuong emphasized that, over the past 60 years of development, CTU has continuously affirmed its role as a leading center for high-quality human resource training in the Mekong Delta; a pioneer in scientific research and technology transfer; and a strategic partner in the socio-economic development of the region and the country. In the current context, however, the University’s role extends beyond education and research—it must evolve into a regional innovation hub, a central nexus connecting the knowledge–technology–enterprise ecosystem, and a driving force for sustainable development.
CTU will continue to focus on three strategic pillars. First, innovating education in alignment with market demand, digital transformation, and international standards. Second, advancing breakthroughs in science and technology, with a focus on eight of the eleven identified strategic technologies, as well as smart and sustainable agriculture and aquaculture, environmental protection, renewable energy, and the digital economy. Third, strengthening cooperation and community engagement, enhancing linkages among government, academia, and industry, and transforming knowledge into practical value.
Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Phuong emphasized that the Dialogue was held at a particularly significant juncture - marking the 60th anniversary of CTU, while the country is entering a new phase of breakthrough development and accelerating the implementation of key national strategies
Delivering his orientation remarks, Mr. Tran Tri Hung outlined several key priorities for Can Tho City in the coming years: First, to strengthen close coordination with CTU in developing the University into a leading regional center for education, research, and innovation, aligned with emerging technologies and the green economy. Second, to further promote the “Government - University - Enterprise” linkage as a central pillar of the innovation ecosystem, in which the State plays an enabling role, the University provides knowledge and high-quality human resources, and enterprises serve as the driving force for application and market leadership. Third, to identify the development of high-quality human resources as a strategic breakthrough, determining the region’s competitiveness and adaptability. In this regard, CTU plays a pivotal role in training and supplying talent for key sectors and emerging industries, aligned with international standards and market demands. Fourth, to continue strengthening the City’s role as a hub for international cooperation, particularly in education, science and technology, and sustainable development. This will facilitate deeper integration of the Mekong Delta into the global landscape, with the Sustainable Development of the Mekong Delta Forum serving as an important platform for connection, affirming that international cooperation is a critical driver in enhancing the region’s position and competitiveness in the global era.
Mr. Tran Tri Hung called for strengthened cooperation between CTU and Can Tho City, emphasizing the need to jointly develop and implement breakthrough initiatives in training, research, and technology transfer, thereby addressing key regional challenges
The dialogue focused on strategic themes closely linked to the role of CTU in the development of the Mekong Delta and the nation. Presentations highlighted the University’s outstanding achievements over the past 60 years in education and training, scientific research, innovation, and digital transformation, while also outlining strategic directions for the next phase of development. The dialogue also addressed pressing regional issues, including the development of high-tech agriculture adaptable to climate change, the application of strategic technologies for sustainable development, the strengthening of domestic and international cooperation, and the role of young scientists in advancing the University’s knowledge mission toward a prosperous future for the Mekong Delta and Vietnam.
In the field of agriculture - a key pillar of the regional economy, Labor Hero Ho Quang Cua - an alumnus of CTU, shared practical insights into high-tech, environmentally friendly, and climate-resilient agriculture, as well as organic farming and food safety in the Mekong Delta, together with development orientations and the University’s leading role
From a technology and innovation perspective, Mr. Tran Hoang Viet - representative of CT Group, presented on breakthrough strategic technologies for the development of the Mekong Delta, emphasizing the pioneering role of CTU in training, research, and the application of science and technology to address regional challenges
From an international cooperation perspective, Prof. Arie Tsutomu - Vice President of Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (TUAT), shared experiences on multilateral cooperation models among domestic and international partners to promote sustainable regional development, highlighting the central role of universities in connecting global knowledge, advancing technology transfer, and fostering interdisciplinary research networks
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Khanh Thuan from the College of Agriculture - CTU, presented on “Young Scientists and the Mission of CTU in the New Era: Continuing Tradition, Harnessing Resources, and Advancing Pioneering Spirit”
Dr. Cao Hoang Giang from the College of Information and Communication Technology - CTU, presented on “Young Scientists and the Mission of CTU in the New Era: The Bridging Mission”
The discussion session on the role and mission of higher education institutions in the development of the Mekong Delta and the nation, in the context of implementing Resolution No. 71-NQ/TW, attracted active participation and valuable contributions from delegates
Within the framework of the program, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony was held, marking a significant step forward in expanding the network of partnerships between CTU and its domestic and international collaborators. The signed agreements focus on key priority areas, including high-quality human resource development, scientific research, technology transfer, high-tech agricultural development, healthcare, and fostering enterprise engagement and innovation.
MoU signing between De Yu Nursing and Health Academy (Taiwan) and the College of Natural Sciences – CTU
MoU signing in the field of agriculture between Vinarice Co., Ltd. and CTU
Cooperation agreement between the Management Board of Hau Giang High-Tech Agricultural Application Park and CTU
MoU between the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry branch in Mekong Delta and CTU
Cooperation agreement between Aero Asahi Vietnam Co., Ltd. and CTU
The 13th Regular Online SDMD Dialogue was not only an academic forum for sharing knowledge and development experience, but also an opportunity to reflect on CTU’s six-decade journey of engagement with and contribution to the development of the Mekong Delta. Through the participation of scientists, policymakers, enterprises, and international partners, the seminar further reinforced the University’s role as a vital bridge in fostering interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral collaboration for the sustainable development of the Mekong Delta. Building on its 60-year foundation, CTU continues to affirm its position as a leading regional center for education, scientific research, and technology transfer, while serving as an effective connector among government agencies, businesses, international organizations, and the scientific community.
Commemorative photo
As the country enters a new phase of development marked by both opportunities and challenges, the spirit of “Creating Knowledge – Advancing Frontiers” stands as a strong commitment of CTU to continue nurturing knowledge, promoting innovation, and making meaningful contributions to the sustainable development of the Mekong Delta and Vietnam. Through collaborative initiatives, interdisciplinary research, and international engagement, the University will continue to work closely with its partners to generate new value, advancing toward a vision of a prosperous and sustainable Mekong Delta by 2045 and beyond.
(Website Editorial Board)
