By Office of Communications and Public Affairs
The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) welcomed H.E. Mr. Pham Viet Hung, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Thailand, on 8 April 2026. The visit marked a significant step in strengthening a long-standing partnership between AIT and Vietnam, which spans more than five decades and continues to grow across education, research, and innovation.
The meeting brought together key officials from both sides to explore new opportunities for collaboration, particularly in areas aligned with Vietnam’s national priorities. Discussions focused on advancing cooperation in the digital economy, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and public policy, while also identifying pathways to expand scholarships, joint research, and industry engagement.
In his welcome remarks, AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li emphasized the importance of this partnership and its future direction. “We are very proud of our long-standing relationship with Vietnam and the contributions of our alumni to national development. We aim to align AIT’s global expertise with Vietnam’s priorities in AI, digital transformation, and climate resilience while strengthening joint research and talent development,” he said.
Ambassador Pham Viet Hung expressed appreciation for AIT’s contributions to Vietnam’s development and highlighted the impact of AIT graduates in shaping the country’s progress, along with Vietnam’s ambitious goals for the future. “AIT has played an important role in educating Vietnamese students, many of whom are contributing positively to our society. As Vietnam aims for sustained high economic growth, particularly in the digital and green economy, we look forward to expanding our cooperation with AIT,” he said.
AIT highlighted its deep and enduring connection with Vietnam, dating back to 1973. The establishment of the AIT Center in Vietnam in 1993 remains a key milestone, as it continues to serve as the Institute’s only country center outside Thailand. Over the years, AIT has trained more than 15,000 professionals in Vietnam and built a strong alumni network of over 4,000 graduates. Today, Vietnamese students represent one of the largest international groups at AIT, supported by dedicated faculty and staff.
Both sides also discussed practical steps to enhance collaboration, including expanding scholarship opportunities, strengthening faculty exchanges, and increasing engagement with industry partners for internships and job placements. Additional ideas included organizing joint academic events, cultural exchanges, and initiatives to support ASEAN-focused studies.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to translate these discussions into concrete actions. By building on a strong foundation of trust and collaboration, AIT and Vietnam aim to further advance education, innovation, and regional cooperation across ASEAN.
The Embassy delegation included Mrs. Hoang Diem Hanh, Counselor; Mrs. Tran Thi Hue, Counselor; Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Thu, First Secretary; Mr. Duong Dinh Truong, First Secretary; and Ms. Phan Thi Kim Chi, Attaché.
From AIT, attendees included Prof. Manukid Parnichkun, Vice President for Academic and Research; Prof. Siddharth K. Jabade, Vice President for Administration and Development; Dr. Thi Phuoc Lai Nguyen, Dean, Faculty of Public Policy and Sustainable Development; Dr. Ha Thanh Dong, Associate Professor, AARM/FFANR; Dr. Sumana Shrestha, Director of Office of International Affairs; and Mr. Sanjeet Amatya, Director of Office of Communications and Public Affairs.
