On June 17, 2025, Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment (HCMUNRE) hosted a reception and working session with the Vietnam – ASEAN Hydrogen Club to exchange and discuss strategic directions for cooperation in research, development, and application of renewable energy—particularly hydrogen—in the fields of natural resources and environmental management.
Figure 1 – Overview of the Working Session
Attending the working session on behalf of Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment (HCMUNRE) were: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Hoang Nghiem – Vice Rector; Dr. Huynh Thien Tai – Deputy Head in charge of the Department of Science, Technology Management and External Relations; Dr. Tran Thanh Tam – Deputy Head of the Department of Science, Technology Management and External Relations; Dr. Le Thi Kim Thoa – Deputy Head of the Department of Science, Technology Management and External Relations; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Lu Phuong – Deputy Head of the Faculty of Environment; Dr. Ly Cam Hung – Head of the Faculty of Applied Sciences; Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao – Deputy Head of the Faculty of Meteorology, Hydrology and Water Resources; and Ms. Van My Tien – Specialist at the Center for Consulting Services on Natural Resources and Environment.
Figure 2 – The HCMUNRE’s Representative
Attending the working session on behalf of the Vietnam–ASEAN Hydrogen Club were: Mr. Le Ngoc Anh Minh – Chairman of the Vietnam–ASEAN Hydrogen Club; Mr. Nguyen Anh Tam – Vice Chairman; Mr. Vo Dai Nghiem – Member of the Club; and Mr. Pham Manh Doan – Member of the Club’s Technology Committee.
Figure 3 – Vietnam–ASEAN Hydrogen Club
Within the framework of the working session between Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment (HCMUNRE) and the Vietnam–ASEAN Hydrogen Club, the two parties conducted in-depth discussions around the theme: “Exchange and Cooperation in Research and Deployment of Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Applications in the Field of Natural Resources and Environment.”
The meeting resulted in consensus on several key areas of cooperation, including:
- Scientific Research Collaboration:
Both parties agreed to enhance cooperation in researching and applying renewable energy, especially hydrogen, in resource and environmental management. This includes promoting energy storage solutions, joint scientific publications, and the development of interdisciplinary research groups.
- Training and Human Resource Development:
The proposed collaboration encompasses joint implementation of training programs ranging from vocational to postgraduate levels; the development of linked academic modules; organization of intensive training courses; expert lectures; and opportunities for student internships and research placements at partner institutions.
- Technology Transfer and Model Implementation:
The parties plan to develop pilot models and hybrid renewable energy systems; apply hydrogen electrolysis technologies; and transfer technical know-how to local governments and businesses in need.
- Project Linkages and International Cooperation:
The cooperation will extend to co-developing research topics and projects at the ministerial, national, or international level; seeking international funding sources; organizing scientific conferences; and facilitating scholar and student exchange programs.
- Proposed Initiatives:
To effectively implement the agreed-upon collaboration areas, both sides will establish a joint working group, proceed with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), coordinate field surveys, develop research outlines, and organize thematic workshops to concretize the cooperation directions.
This working session reaffirmed the strong commitment and shared vision of both institutions to foster interdisciplinary initiatives in renewable energy and hydrogen, contributing to sustainable development in the context of energy transition and climate change response
Figure 4 – Summary of Representatives from Both Parties
The welcoming and working session between Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment (HCMUNRE) and the Vietnam–ASEAN Hydrogen Club was not only a formal diplomatic activity, but also marked the beginning of a strategic, comprehensive, and sustainable partnership between the two parties. The collaboration focuses on key areas such as: scientific research cooperation; joint training and human resource development; technology transfer and model implementation; project linkage and international collaboration. This serves as a vital foundation for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two sides in the near future, creating favorable conditions to promote practical activities aligned with education, research, and innovation, while also expanding career opportunities for students and contributing to the sustainable development goals of society.