Within the framework of the strategy to strengthen international cooperation, promote academic exchange, and enhance training quality, from January 12 to January 15, 2026, Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment (HCMUNRE) organized a reception and working session with Prof. Daniele La Rosa, a lecturer and researcher from the University of Catania, Italy. The program was a meaningful academic external-relations activity, contributing to the promotion of scientific exchange, knowledge sharing, and the expansion of cooperation opportunities in the field of nature-based solutions (NbS) for sustainable development.
Representing HCMUNRE, the program was attended by members of the University Board and specialized units, including: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Hoang Nghiem – Vice President of the University; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Lu Phuong – Vice Dean of the Faculty of Environment; Dr. Le Thi Kim Thoa – Deputy Head of the Department of Science, Technology Management and External Relations, along with lecturers and researchers from the Faculty of Environment. The participation of the University leadership and specialized units reflects the University’s strong commitment to promoting international cooperation and enhancing research and training capacity in line with international integration.
On the partner side, Prof. Daniele La Rosa, a lecturer at the University of Catania, Italy, is an expert with extensive experience in research and implementation of nature-based solutions in urban planning, water resources management, and climate change adaptation in Europe.
Figure 1. Overview of the reception and working session HCMUNRE and Prof. Daniele La Rosa.
Professional exchange and training activities were conducted over three days, from January 13 to January 15, 2026. The program content was scientifically designed, closely aligned with the University’s training and research needs, and consistent with current trends in sustainable development and modern environmental management.
On January 13, 2026, the program focused on the theme “Nature-based Solutions for Contemporary Urban Issues: Examples from Europe.” Prof. Daniele La Rosa provided an overview of the concept, role, and potential of nature-based solutions in addressing contemporary urban challenges, while sharing models and practical experiences from Europe. The discussions enabled participating staff and lecturers to approach new methodologies in sustainable urban planning and management.
Figure 2. Prof. Daniele La Rosa presenting on nature-based solutions for urban issues.
On January 14, 2026, the program continued with the theme “Nature-based Solutions for Water Regulation.” The discussions centered on ecosystem-based solutions for water resources management and regulation, including flood control, water quality improvement, and conservation of aquatic ecosystems. Lecturers from the Faculty of Environment actively participated in discussions, shared experiences, and related the content to practical water resources management in Viet Nam.
Figure 3. Thematic discussion on nature-based solutions for climate regulation.
On the final working day, January 15, 2026, the theme “Nature-based Solutions for Climate Regulation” was implemented, focusing on the role of nature-based solutions in climate change adaptation and mitigation. The discussions clarified the potential for integrating NbS into sustainable development strategies, spatial planning, and environmental policies in the context of increasingly severe climate change.
Figure 4. Program summary and certificate presentation to participants.
Throughout the program, exchanges were conducted in a serious, open, and highly academic atmosphere, with numerous in-depth contributions from both sides. The program provided valuable information, knowledge, and experience for participating staff and lecturers, while also enhancing awareness of the role of nature-based solutions in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development.
Through the reception and working session with Prof. Daniele La Rosa from the University of Catania, Italy, HCMUNRE expects to further expand academic cooperation, scientific research, and training activities with international partners, aiming to develop long-term, effective collaborative programs aligned with the University’s orientation toward sustainable development and international integration in the coming period.