On March 24, 2026, Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment hosted a welcome and working session with partners from the Center for Mineral Resources and Materials Technology (CTM) and the Association of Stone and Marble Businesses of the Murcia Region (MARSA), Spain. The event was organized to strengthen international cooperation, promote academic exchange, and expand collaborative opportunities in research, education, and technology transfer related to mineral resources and materials.
Figure 1. Overview of the working session at Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment
On behalf of Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment, attendees included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Hoang Nghiem – Vice President; Dr. Le Thi Kim Thoa – Deputy Head of the Department of Science, Technology and International Relations; Dr. Thai Phuong Vu – Deputy Head of the Faculty of Environment; Dr. Thiem Quoc Tuan – Acting Deputy Head of the Faculty of Geology and Mineral Resources; and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hoang Thi Thanh Thuy – Senior Lecturer of the Faculty of Geology and Mineral Resources.
Figure 2. Representatives of Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment
Representing CTM and MARSA was Mr. Javier Fernández Cortés – Secretary General of MARSA and Executive Director of the Center for Materials Technology (CTM). As organizations specializing in research and development (R&D) in mineral resources, natural stone, and construction materials, CTM and MARSA provide comprehensive technological solutions, ranging from geological exploration, mining operations, and material analysis to the application of advanced Industry 4.0 technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and Digital Twins, thereby optimizing production processes and enhancing business competitiveness.
Figure 3. Representatives of CTM and MARSA
Within the framework of the working program, both sides delivered comprehensive presentations on their capacities, functions, and strategic orientations in research and development. Based on these exchanges, the parties discussed potential areas of cooperation in key fields, particularly in the context of the growing global demand for sustainable development and emission reduction. One of the focal topics was the transfer and application of “Zero Emission” mining approaches, considered an advanced solution to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impacts throughout the mining lifecycle. Additionally, solutions for ecological restoration and biodiversity regeneration in post-mining areas were discussed, aiming to restore ecosystems, maintain environmental balance, and enhance the ecological and social value of affected regions.
In addition to sustainable mining technology transfer, both sides devoted significant attention to cooperation in scientific research and technological development, particularly in Earth sciences and natural resource management. Discussions emphasized the application of advanced Industry 4.0 technologies to improve the efficiency of resource management, exploitation, and utilization. Specifically, Digital Twin technology was highlighted as a key tool for developing digital simulation models, enabling real-time monitoring, analysis, and optimization of resource systems. Meanwhile, Hyperspectral Sensing technology was identified as an effective solution for high-precision surveying, identification, and assessment of mineral resources, supporting fundamental investigations and resource planning. Furthermore, the development and application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Earth sciences were underscored, with expectations to enhance data analytics, forecasting capabilities, and decision-making processes in environmental and resource management.
Overall, the discussions clearly reflected a comprehensive cooperation orientation between the two sides, spanning scientific research, technology transfer, education, and high-quality human resource development. This serves as an important foundation for developing and implementing specific collaborative programs, contributing to more efficient and sustainable resource management and exploitation, while promoting the advancement of science, technology, and education in the context of globalization and green transformation. It also reinforces the long-term partnership between Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment and CTM and MARSA.
Figure 4. Delegates taking a commemorative photo after the meeting
The welcome and working session with CTM and MARSA concluded successfully, opening up numerous opportunities for collaboration in research, education, and technology transfer. This marks an important initial step toward strengthening international connections and achieving sustainable development goals, as well as enhancing the quality of education and scientific research at the University in the context of global integration.