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On April 09, 2026, Representatives from the Nong Lam University – Ho Chi Minh City (NLU), and Naresuan University, Thailand, recently convened to reaffirm and expand their academic partnership following a period of disruption during 2018–2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and institutional transitions.
The meeting marked a renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the field of food technology, with a strategic vision aligned with regional and global developments in sustainable food systems and innovation.
Enhancing Student Mobility and Academic Recognition
A key outcome of the discussion is the revitalization of student mobility programs. Both institutions agreed to enhance internship and academic exchange opportunities, enabling undergraduate and postgraduate students to undertake short-term placements ranging from one to four months at the partner university.
To support this initiative, Naresuan University has committed to providing on-campus accommodation for international students. Importantly, both parties have established a credit transfer mechanism to ensure that academic achievements gained abroad are formally recognized, thereby facilitating seamless academic progression.
Expanding Access through Scholarship Opportunities
In an effort to attract high-quality students from the region, the Thai partner announced a policy offering a 50% tuition fee waiver for ASEAN students, including those from Vietnam, pursuing Master’s and PhD programs. This initiative reflects a shared commitment to fostering regional academic mobility and capacity building. Vietnamese students were particularly acknowledged for their academic diligence and strong performance.
Advancing Research in Emerging Food Technologies
The partnership is set to move beyond conventional collaboration toward emerging interdisciplinary areas. Priority research themes include “Future Food,” personalized nutrition, and the integration of artificial intelligence in food production and processing.
In addition, both institutions identified potential joint research directions in essential oil extraction and rice bran oil processing. Technical collaboration on retort sterilization certification was also discussed, aiming to support food products in meeting international safety standards and enhancing their commercial viability.
Strengthening Academic Networks through International Conferences
The collaboration will be further reinforced through participation in major upcoming academic events, including:
- The 7th International Rice Bran Oil Conference, scheduled for August in Bangkok, which will convene leading researchers and industry stakeholders from across Asia.
- The Sustainable Agriculture and Environment (SAE) Conference, to be held from 11–13 November, with a submission deadline of 30 June.
These platforms are expected to facilitate knowledge exchange, foster research collaboration, and strengthen regional academic networks.
Towards the Development of “Global Students”
The renewed partnership underscores a shared vision of nurturing “global students” equipped with the knowledge, skills, and adaptability required to thrive in the rapidly evolving food industry in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Both institutions are currently progressing toward the renewal of their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which will provide a formal framework to support long-term cooperation in education, research, and innovation.
