On 20 May, the Faculty of Environment at VNUHCM–Â鶹´«Ã½ (HCMUS) hosted an international scientific seminar entitled ‘The Benefit of Earth Observations from Space: A Look at Air Quality’. The event featured a keynote presentation by Dr James H. Crawford from the NASA Langley Research Center (USA), attracting a significant audience of lecturers, researchers, and students interested in environmental and atmospheric sciences.

Against a global backdrop of escalating air pollution and climate change, the application of Earth observation technology from space is pioneering new approaches to environmental research and air quality management. This seminar served as an academic forum to exchange knowledge, update modern research trends, and connect students and researchers with scientific advancements currently being implemented worldwide.

During the event, Dr James H. Crawford presented findings regarding the role of space-based Earth observations in studying and assessing air quality. The report focused on contemporary approaches in atmospheric research, such as tropospheric photochemical modelling, studies of ozone and atmospheric trace gases, and the integration of field measurements with satellite data to enhance the precision of air quality models.

In addition to technical content, Dr Crawford introduced various applications of satellite data within environmental and atmospheric sciences. The discussions provided further insight into utilizing satellite observations for monitoring and evaluating the atmospheric environment, while enabling participants to explore current research trajectories in the field of atmospheric science.

The discussion session saw lecturers, researchers, and students engage with the speaker regarding the potential for applying satellite data to environmental research in Viet Nam, air quality assessment methodologies, and the evolving trends of Earth observation technology in atmospheric research. These vibrant academic exchanges reflect a growing interest in interdisciplinary research spanning environment, space technology, and data science.

Through the seminar, attendees gained access to modern research trends in atmospheric science and developed a deeper understanding of how to combine space observation data with field data in environmental studies. The programme also facilitated broader international academic connections, allowing HCMUS staff and students to access cutting-edge technologies employed in global environmental research.

In the current of modern science, data retrieved from space are no longer distant figures; such information is increasingly becoming a vital tool for understanding the atmosphere and the living environment. Through these academic connections, science not only expands knowledge but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards environmental longevity and sustainable development.

 

On 10 March 2026, VNUHCM–Â鶹´«Ã½ (HCMUS) held a ceremony to launch the CASA-VN sub-project and hand over the automated air quality monitoring station (AQMS). This initiative forms part of the ‘Clean Air for Sustainable ASEAN’ (CASA) project, a regional collaboration designed to bolster air quality monitoring and management capabilities across Southeast Asian nations.

The CASA project is funded by the ASEAN–Korea Cooperation Fund and led by Seoul National University. In Viet Nam, the CASA-VN sub-project is implemented in coordination with Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, with HCMUS being the unit directly implementing and operating the monitoring system.

Within the framework of the programme, the automated air quality monitoring station (AQMS) was handed over and installed at HCMUS. In Viet Nam, the CASA project supports the deployment of two monitoring stations in Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City to strengthen the air quality tracking system and serve environmental research. The station located at HCMUS is one of the stations belonging to the CASA project monitoring network in the ASEAN region, which has been deployed in many countries across the area.

The AQMS is an automated monitoring system capable of continuous tracking of air quality parameters such as fine particulate matter PM_2.5, PM₁₀ and several common pollutants. Data from the system is updated in real-time, serving research on urban environments, analysis of air pollution trends, and providing a scientific basis for developing air quality management solutions. This data source will also be integrated into the University’s training and research activities.

Representing the University, Assoc.Prof. Trần Lê Quan – President of HCMUS – stated that air pollution is becoming one of the notable environmental and public health challenges in many large cities. The implementation of the CASA-VN sub-project not only contributes to improving environmental monitoring capacity but also creates a foundation for scientific research activities and academic cooperation in the field of air quality management.

In the context of ASEAN countries strengthening research cooperation on the environment and climate change, regional cooperation initiatives such as the CASA project play an important role in connecting scientific resources and sharing monitoring data between countries.

Speaking at the event, GS. Kiyoung Lee – CASA Project Manager, Seoul National University – expressed expectation that the CASA-VN sub-project will promote cooperation in training and research between Seoul National University and HCMUS, while contributing to expanding the air quality research network in the region.

In the coming time, monitoring data from the AQMS system will be shared within the CASA project research network in the ASEAN region, contributing to supporting interdisciplinary research and providing a scientific basis for building air quality improvement policies. The project also opens opportunities to strengthen cooperation between Vietnamese and South Korean scientists in the field of environmental science, thereby promoting research and the training of high-quality human resources serving the sustainable development of the region.

On 14 November, the Faculty of Physics – Engineering Physics, VNUHCM-Â鶹´«Ã½ inaugurated the Workshop on Marine Science and Sustainable Development, a special event marking the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Oceanography discipline within the Department of Oceanography, Meteorology, and Hydrology. The opening ceremony took place in an exciting atmosphere, attended by many scientists, international experts, and young researchers who shared scientific perspectives on the ocean.

Speaking at the Opening Ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Trần Lê Quan—President of the University—expressed his honour in welcoming scientists, experts, and young researchers to this meaningful forum. The President of the University affirmed the critical role of the workshop: “Today’s event brings together scientists, experts, and young researchers to share the latest findings and innovative ideas aimed at a sustainable future for our oceans. This cooperation not only promotes marine science but also strengthens global connectivity in addressing shared challenges such as climate change, marine pollution, and sustainable coastal management.�

The Marine Science and Sustainable Development Workshop included 16 presentations, divided into three specialised discussion sessions:

Session 1: Marine Science and Sustainable Development

This session featured talks on the 20-year journey of OMH@HCMUS by Vo Luong Hong Phuoc; the advancement of coastal monitoring with indigenous HF radar development, presented by Hwa Chien; global trends in oceanic fronts and their implications for marine ecosystems, presented by Andrew Fischer, Kai Yang, and Phuc TD. Le; high-precision measurements in marine chemistry (DMS as example) surviving and advancing in any environment, presented by Sohiko Kameyama; and machine learning applications for classification and regression, presented by Quoc Pham.

Session 2: Microplastics – From Research to Forecasting

This session focused on urgent environmental challenges, beginning with Chemicaldrift – a new open source ocean pollution model, presented by Lars R. Hole, Manuel Aghito, and Øyvind Breivik. Further presentations included surface water contamination with microplastics in Poland, detailing trends and challenges, by Piotr Zieliński and Karolina Mierzyńska; classification and prediction of microplastics by Vo Luong Hong Phuoc and colleagues; the challenges and opportunities of detection and classification of microplastics using artificial intelligence, presented by Pham The Bao and a large group of co-authors; and integrating AI and GIS for forecasting saltwater intrusion in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam under climate change, presented by Vo Thi Kim Kieu, Pham Thi Tuyet Huyen, and Nguyen Kim Loi.

Session 3: River–Sea Processes and Coastal Zones

This session addressed dynamic environments, with topics covering the formation mechanism of a sand bar in Cua Dai – Thu Bon River mouth, presented by Vu Tuan Anh and Nguyen Thi Thuy Dung; sub-mesoscale flows and near-inertial motions in the Mississippi-Atchafalaya River plume in the Gulf of Mexico, presented by Pat Welch; water resource characteristics of the Mekong Delta, including current status, challenges, and sustainable management solutions, presented by Tran Dang An; the use of sand on a global scale and the impact on the marine environment, by Klaus Schwarzer; coastal protection strategies with nature-based solution for climate change adaptation in coastal Mekong Delta, presented by Le Xuan Tu; and shifting tidal dynamics in the Mekong Delta, unravelling the acceleration of tidal amplification and its anthropogenic roots, presented by Nguyen Cong Thanh, Tran Van Xuan, Nguyen Nghia Hung, and Dang Truong An.

The event was attended by many scientists, international experts, and young researchers.

The workshop concluded with an affirmation of the crucial role of marine science in providing data, solutions, and strategic direction to protect the ocean sustainably and promptly against current environmental fluctuations. The specialised discussion sessions highlighted the importance of applying modern technology—from HF radar and precise chemical measurement methods to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning—to enhance the capacity for monitoring and forecasting complex ocean systems. The focus of the workshop was not only on basic research into ocean dynamics but also extended to urgent environmental challenges such as microplastic pollution on surface waters and the impact of climate change on coastal areas and estuaries. The solutions presented, from marine pollution modelling to nature-based coastal protection strategies, demonstrated the transformation of scientific knowledge into strategic action.

Celebrating the fifteenth anniversary of the Science Film Festival, the Goethe-Institut Ho Chi Minh City, under the patronage of the Consulate General of Germany and in collaboration with various partners, convened Science Fair 2025 – a special event bearing the theme ‘Curious little minds today – Sustainable change tomorrow.’

The fair sought to establish connections among organisations engaged in education, innovation, and sustainable development, while fostering an environment where science, education, and art converged. Designed for children, young people, and science enthusiasts, Science Fair 2025 presented a series of STEM activities, interactive exhibitions, and thematic discussions. The programme cultivated curiosity, a passion for learning, and a sense of environmental responsibility through a dynamic synthesis of creativity and scientific exploration.

As a long-standing partner of the Science Film Festival Viet Nam, VNUHCM–Â鶹´«Ã½ (HCMUS) contributed to advancing sustainability education through initiatives coordinated by the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Sciences. The Faculty introduced a variety of experiential learning opportunities combining technology, creativity, and environmental awareness.

The AR–VR station enabled visitors to design traditional Hoi An lanterns through augmented reality, effectively bridging cultural heritage with modern technological innovation. The Climate Fresk board game guided participants to examine causes and strategies for addressing climate change through interactive engagement. STEM-based games such as Green Footprint (carbon footprint), Mo-no-poly (polymer science), and ‘Green Career’ activities—including quizzes and picture-based challenges—attracted significant interest, conveying the imperative of sustainable living in daily practice.

Pupils and students engaging enthusiastically with the event activities.

Notably, within the framework of the Science in Dialogues series, Dr Nguyá»…n Hà Hùng ChÆ°Æ¡ng, a lecturer at the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Sciences (HCMUS), delivered an insightful talk titled ‘Green Career Orientation.’ The session focused on elucidating the concept of a ‘Green Career’ and the status of the sector as an inevitable global trend.

Dr ChÆ°Æ¡ng addressed the means by which students across all disciplines could ‘green’ future professions, whilst analysing the requisite skills and employment opportunities within the context of the global green transition. These perspectives assisted learners in clearly identifying the nexus between scientific knowledge, social responsibility, and sustainable career pathways.

 

Dr Nguyễn Hà Hùng Chương (first picture) delivering a presentation on “Green Career Orientation,� alongside fellow speakers addressing broader themes of the green transition and sustainable development.