CAFSUS Project –Empowering Women in Research – Reflections from the “More Women in Research Asia” Conference in Vietnam

Photo: Female scholars participating in the “More Women in Research Asia” conference

Insights from Dr. Phạm Thị Bích Ngọc: This was my first time participating in an academic conference composed almost entirely of women scholars – a refreshing and inspiring experience.

The “More Women in Research Asia” conference, organized by Danida and hosted at the Embassy of Denmark in Vietnam, provided an open and profound space for dialogue around a critical and enduring theme: enhancing the presence, voice, and contributions of women in scientific research.

Photo: Engaged panel discussions during the conference sessions

Throughout the sessions, we – female researchers from diverse disciplines, countries, and generations – shared our personal experiences, examined structural barriers, and explored actionable strategies to catalyze meaningful change.

The final session of the conference synthesized key themes:

• Challenging societal and cultural norms that limit opportunities for women in academia;

• Enhancing women’s visibility and leadership roles in research institutions and universities;

• Engaging men as allies in the pursuit of gender equality, while preserving women-centered spaces;

• Restructuring mentoring models to ensure more sustainable and impactful academic development for women.
  (Danida Fellowship Centre, 2025)

On the second day, I had the opportunity to present our team’s international publishing support mentoring model, developed and published in 2023.

Photo: Dr. Phạm Thị Bích Ngọc following her presentation on the international publishing mentoring model

I sincerely thank the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, VNU-HCM – my home institution – for supporting my participation in this meaningful event. My heartfelt gratitude also goes to Danida and the Embassy of Denmark for their warm hospitality and for organizing such an impressive and impactful conference.

Source: Office of the Institute Administration