The University of Sydney has officially launched the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute, a non-profit social enterprise wholly owned by the University of Sydney.

Established on the foundation of the University's renowned research legacy and commitment to societal advancement, the Institute aims to make a significant positive impact on communities in Vietnam.

In preparation for the launch, the Institute has established its head office in Ho Chi Minh City, followed by offices in Hanoi, and Can Tho. The launching event in Ho Chi Minh City was attended by the Deputy Director of the Department of Health, Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Acting Director of the HCMC Institute for Development Studies.

The Hanoi event was honored to welcome leaders from the Department of Science, Technology and Training, Ministry of Health, the Director of the Academy of Journalism and Communication, Deputy Director General of the Government Electronic Information Portal, and Assistant to Politburo member, National Director of Vietnam Australia Center. On the Australian side, the Australian Ambassador to Vietnam and The MP, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care also attended.

Within the framework of the event was the Sydney Vietnam Innovation Symposium, which brought together university leaders, researchers, and scholars from both Sydney and Vietnam to discuss and share experience from decades of collaboration, aiming to strengthen research and innovation partnerships. The event enhanced networking opportunities among research communities and included speeches from senior leaders from both Vietnam and Australia.

The Institute announced its mission to conduct multidisciplinary research across various fields such as health, agriculture, arts, social sciences, business, and Net Zero initiatives, aiming for high impact research to bring about prosperity for both countries. Supported by up to 40-45 million AUD in non-profit funding from the Australian government and international donors, all revenue generated by the Institute will be reinvested into research activities in Vietnam.

Rooted in the success story of several university-led research projects previously conducted through and in affiliation with the Woolcock Institute in Vietnam, the University of Sydney  extends its dedication and investment to fostering innovation, strengthening partnerships in Vietnam, and driving positive change through the new Institute.

The Institute aims to collaborate closely with academic organizations and researchers, improving in-country scientific capacity, and contributing to the region’s economic and social development. Throughout the journey, each party will assign research experts to directly participate in the project for collaborative implementation. This form of cooperation is assessed to be highly effective, benefitting all collaborators while also enhancing Vietnam's scientific research capabilities.

The establishment of the Institute marks a significant milestone in improving scientific research and innovation in Vietnam, being one of the first Australian social enterprises in Ho Chi Minh City.

In the context of Resolution 98/2023/QH15 by the National Assembly, which includes special policies for managing science, technology, and innovation, the Institute's establishment will boost research collaboration, enhance local scientific capacity, and contribute to the country's economic and social development.

Dr. Nguyen Ngo Quang, Acting Director of the Department of Science, Technology and Training under the Ministry of Health, said:

"The establishment of the Institute will contribute to enhancing research cooperation and technology development, fostering innovation, and improving the quality of human resources in scientific research for universities and research institutes.

"It will also directly support Vietnam's efforts to achieve its goals of universal health coverage and care for the population, including the sustainable development goals that the Government has committed to implementing."

Professor Thu-Anh Nguyen, Executive Director and Head of Research, the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute said:

"The University of Sydney Vietnam Institute has enormous potential to drive collaboration, innovation, and positive impact in Vietnam and beyond.

"We are committed to enhancing global engagement, research excellence, and societal impact.

"We look forward to collaborating with domestic and international organizations and individuals to build a robust platform that enhances multidisciplinary research capacity and improves quality of life for local and global communities."

Professor Mark Scott, Vice-Chancellor and President, the University of Sydney said:

"The University of Sydney is extremely proud to launch the Institute, which honours our commitment to research and engagement in Vietnam.

"It builds on a long history of collaboration with Vietnamese researchers, students, industry, and government departments.

"As our flagship research initiative in Vietnam it will support current and future leaders, and be a hub for advanced research and innovative ideas, continuing to deepen the engagement between the University and Vietnam."