DR. NGUYEN THI PHUONG THAO COMMITS TO DEEPENING ACADEMIC COOPERATION WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

(PLO) – The University of Oxford, one of the world’s foremost centers of knowledge, has long been recognized as a cradle of enlightenment – home to hundreds of distinguished scholars, scientists, writers, and Nobel laureates.

On October 28, as part of the official visit of the Vietnamese delegation to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the University of Oxford welcomed senior leaders from Vietnamese agencies and major enterprises — including Sovico Group and Vietjet — for in-depth discussions on research collaboration, innovation, and educational partnerships.

Professor Irene Tracey, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford, emphasized that cooperation between Oxford and Vietnam has expanded across multiple sectors, reflecting the depth and strength of bilateral relations. Oxford takes pride in contributing to initiatives addressing global challenges through science, education, and technological innovation.

In the field of scientific research, Oxford is partnering with Vietjet in a groundbreaking project led by Professor Myles Allen, Director of the Oxford Net Zero Centre, focusing on the development of Geological Balance Fuel (GBF) — a carbon-compensated aviation fuel achieved by permanently storing CO₂ in deep geological formations.

Early findings suggest that GBF could pave the way toward realizing the global aviation industry’s Net Zero emissions target by mid-century. Conducted in collaboration with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the project is poised to redefine the future of sustainable transportation - not only in Vietnam but worldwide.

During the visit, Professor Irene Tracey proudly introduced to General Secretary To Lam and senior Vietnamese officials the Pioneer Scholarship Fund, a joint initiative co-founded by Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao and the University of Oxford.

With an initial endowment of £17.83 million — including £13.7 million contributed by Dr. Thao and £4.13 million matched by Oxford — the Pioneer Scholarship Fund aims to provide long-term educational and research opportunities for outstanding postgraduate students, especially those from Vietnam.

To date, £700,000 has been disbursed to support 11 exceptional Oxford scholars pursuing studies in Education, Chemistry, Clinical Medicine, Genomic Medicine, and Business Administration (MBA).

Speaking at the event, Dr. Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao shared:

“I view these programs not merely as academic collaborations, but as bridges of knowledge and compassion — connecting Vietnam with one of the world’s leading academic institutions.

The world today is changing rapidly, yet culture, intellect, and humanity will forever bind us together toward peace and a better future. I am committed to continuing our partnership with the University of Oxford, nurturing more opportunities for learning, connection, creativity, and contribution, so that the values of goodness and progress may be shared between Vietnam, the United Kingdom, and the global community.”

The event at the University of Oxford marks a significant milestone in strengthening educational, scientific, and technological cooperation between Vietnam and the United Kingdom, contributing to the advancement of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and broader international collaboration.