07/12/2024
The scene of the working session
The delegation was led by Mr. Marc Knapper, U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam, accompanied by Mr. Le Thuy Duong, Director in charge of Vietnam, and several members. Welcoming and working with the delegation from the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Van Dung – Party Secretary and Rector of the University; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Viet Bau – Deputy Party Secretary and Chairman of the University Council; representatives of the Department of Foreign Affairs; members of the Board of Management; representatives of several faculties, functional departments, and lecturers of the University who had studied in the U.S.
Speaking to the University, the Ambassador expressed his gratitude and highly appreciated Thanh Hoa Province and Hong Duc University for effectively implementing cooperation programs with the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi over the past years. Looking forward to the 30th anniversary of the establishment of Vietnam-U.S. diplomatic relations, the Ambassador hoped to organize several conferences, workshops, and cultural-educational activities at Hong Duc University.
At the meeting, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Van Dung – Party Secretary and Rector of the University – reviewed some outcomes of the cooperation programs with the U.S. Embassy in recent years. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Van Dung emphasized that over the years, cooperation programs with the U.S. Embassy have been effectively implemented at Hong Duc University, bringing practical benefits to lecturers and students. Notable programs include the Fulbright Program, collaboration with the Regional English Language Office (RELO), and the American Center programs.
On this occasion, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Van Dung expressed sincere gratitude to the U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam, the Regional English Language Office, and the departments and programs of the Embassy for their trust, support, and collaboration with Hong Duc University. At the same time, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Van Dung expressed the desire to maintain strong cooperative relations with the U.S. Embassy to implement more meaningful programs and projects, contributing to realizing the comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and the United States. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Van Dung proposed that the Embassy serve as a bridge to support Hong Duc University in areas such as: i) Establishing cooperation with U.S. universities in training and scientific research activities; ii) Supporting the development and expansion of English-language training programs and high-quality human resource training fields; iii) Supporting the establishment of an "American Space" at Hong Duc University.
At the meeting, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Viet Bau – Head of the Organizing Committee for the Establishment of the Vietnam-U.S. Friendship Association – also requested the Ambassador's attention in fostering cooperation between Hong Duc University and U.S. universities in training and digital transformation, as well as supporting the connection and guidance of provincial enterprises in creating products that meet U.S. market standards.
Ambassador Marc Knapper affirmed that he would continue to focus on promoting cooperation with Hong Duc University in many fields, especially in education and training. In the coming time, he will strive to connect U.S. universities to collaborate in developing high-quality human resources in several fields at Hong Duc University, such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, climate change, and low-emission agricultural production.
Additionally, the Ambassador expressed strong interest in the proposal to establish an "American Space" at Hong Duc University and pledged to support its realization soon. The Ambassador also recommended that the Vietnam-U.S. Friendship Association regularly meet, contact, and exchange with the American Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam to explore cooperation opportunities between Vietnamese and American businesses.
Mr. Marc Knapper, U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam, presented a commemorative gift to Hong Duc University.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Van Dung, Party Secretary and Rector of the University, presented a commemorative gift to Mr. Marc Knapper, U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam.
The attending delegates took commemorative photos.
As part of the working program, the U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam met and interacted with teachers and students from the Access Scholarship Program.
During the event, the teachers and students organized an exhibition of paintings and photos showcasing activities of the Access Program. They also engaged in discussions and shared their experiences and activities while participating in the Access Scholarship Program.
The students shared about the activities and experiences they had while participating in the Access Scholarship Program.
The delegates and students participating in the Access Scholarship Program took commemorative photos together.
In recent years, the Access Scholarship Program has been effectively implemented, significantly contributing to improving English proficiency, enhancing soft skills, and fostering cultural understanding between Vietnam and the United States for students and trainees. It has also enriched knowledge and nurtured entrepreneurial aspirations among the younger generation, thereby contributing to the socio-economic development of Thanh Hoa Province. The outcomes of other programs have further affirmed the university's capacity, reputation, and experience in international cooperation activities, particularly in effectively implementing international programs and projects.