Co-founder of the Association of Universities in the Red River Basin

Representatives from the member universities of the Association of Universities in the Red River Basin made their debut at the forum.

The forum was attended by representatives from 12 universities, including 5 from Vietnam (University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Hanoi University of Agriculture, University of Culture, Hung Vuong University, Lao Cai College of Education), and 7 from China (Yunnan University, Yunnan Nationalities University, Kunming University of Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Yunnan University of Finance and Economics, Honghe Academy, Dali Academy). In addition, there were representatives and scientists from Vietnam and China: Mr. Tong Quang Hung (Deputy Director of the Yunnan Provincial Department of Education), Mr. Nguyen Chinh Thang (Consul General of Vietnam in Kunming), Mr. Qi Jian Guo (Vice President of the China-Vietnam Friendship Association, former Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam)...

At this forum, the university rectors exchanged information and discussed together to outline directions for future cooperation in training and research, based on clearly identifying the conditions for collaboration and common development goals among universities in the Red River Delta.

The forum's most notable activity was the establishment of the Association of Universities in the Red River Basin, initiated by the University of Social Sciences and Humanities and the Hong Ha Academy. Initially comprising 12 member universities, the Association operates on the principles of voluntariness, equality, and long-term cooperation for the benefit of all parties and the common good of the region and community. Members will utilize their unique characteristics and strengths to promote sustainable cooperation among universities in areas such as human resource and talent training, faculty recruitment, student exchange, and scientific research. These activities not only improve the quality of training and research at member universities but also strengthen collective cohesion, enhance the Association's standing, and spread its influence to neighboring regions.

Associate Professor Pham Quang Minh (left, Vice Rector) receives the flag for hosting the 2nd Forum of Rectors of Universities in the Red River Basin, 2015.

The Rectors signed a memorandum of understanding, voted to approve the operating regulations, logo, and emblem of the Association, and elected key officials. Professor Dr. Nguyen Van Khanh (Rector of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities) and Professor Cam Tuyet Xuan (Director of Hong Ha Academy) were elected as co-chairs of the Association for the 2014-2016 term. Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Van Hieu (Head of the Department of External Relations and International Training Cooperation) and Dr. Truong Hy (Head of the Department of International Cooperation, Hong Ha Academy) were elected as co-heads of the Association's Secretariat.

The Forum of Rectors of Universities in the Red River Basin will be held annually on a rotating basis at member universities of the Association. The second forum will be hosted by the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, and is expected to take place in mid-October 2015.