Strengthening International Cooperation in Research and Education between the University of Social Sciences and Humanities and Japanese Universities
From October 28 to November 01, 2025, Prof. Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan, President of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (USSH), Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNUHCM), led a delegation to a working visit to Japan on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Setsunan University. The delegation included Dr. Pham Thanh Duy, Head of the Office of Administration Affairs; Dr. Hoang Thi Trang, Deputy Head of the Office of External Relations and Research Affairs; and Dr. Nguyen Vu Ky, Head of the Department of Japanese Political Economy, Faculty of Japanese Studies.
During the visit, Prof. Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan attended the international scientific conference titled “Toward Sustainable Regional Development in Asia – Collaboration among Agriculture, Education, and Local Communities” as well as the ceremony celebrating the 50th anniversary of Setsunan University. At the conference, she delivered a paper entitled “Case Studies on Sustainable Regional Development in Vietnam", in which she analyzed the theoretical foundations, regional zoning approaches, and policy frameworks for sustainable regional development in Vietnam. She also highlighted five key factors for effective regional development: a clear legal framework; empowered regional coordinating authorities; shared financial mechanisms; regional development indicators linked to the performance evaluation of local leaders; and interregional data infrastructure and digitalization to support evidence-based policymaking.
Prof. Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan delivered a paper entitled “Case Studies on Sustainable Regional Development in Vietnam
Speaking at the 50th anniversary ceremony of Setsunan University, Prof. Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan extended her congratulations to Prof. Yasuyuki Kubo, President of Setsunan University, along with its faculty, staff, and students. She underscored the long-standing and robust partnership between the two institutions, built over the years through academic conferences, scholar and student exchanges, and cultural activities. This solid foundation, she noted, provides strong momentum for deeper cooperation, contributing to the realization of the Vietnam–Japan “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World.”
Prof. Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan extended her congratulations on the 50th anniversary ceremony of Setsunan University
In a meeting between the two Presidents, both sides agreed to further promote joint research programs in International Studies, Anthropology, Urban Agriculture, Vietnamese Studies, and Area Studies, while also organizing regular cultural students exchange sessions between the two universities.
The delegation also paid working visits to Tokyo University of Foreign Studies and Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology. In discussions with Prof. Nobuo Haruna, President of Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, Prof. Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan explored the possibility of launching dual-degree programs for students majoring in Vietnamese Studies and Japanese Studies, as well as developing online courses on Vietnamese culture and people. In her meeting with Prof. Akifumi Iwabuchi of Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, both parties agreed to strengthen research collaboration in maritime anthropology and to invite visiting professors to teach at USSH-VNUHCM.
The working trip not only expanded the university’s international partnership network but also reaffirmed the pioneering role of USSH-VNUHCM in fostering academic connectivity and promoting sustainable development in the region.
Prof. Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan explored the possibility of launching dual-degree programs for students majoring in Vietnamese Studies and Japanese Studies with Tokyo University of Foreign Studies
The International Conference at Setsunan University
The Delegation
Translation by Khanh Linh
