Scientific Seminar in Dong Thap: "Innovating Methods for Effective Resource Mobilization and Utilization to Develop Transportation Infrastructure in Dong Thap, Adapting to Climate Change"

14 Oct, 2025

On the morning of October 9, 2025, the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH), in collaboration with the Dong Thap Provincial Department of Construction, organized a scientific seminar on the theme "Innovating Methods for Effective Resource Mobilization and Utilization to Develop Transportation Infrastructure in Dong Thap, Adapting to Climate Change: Current Situation and Recommendations". This seminar is part of a national-level research project led by UEH, aiming to connect academic research with the practical development needs of localities.

Overview of the Seminar

The seminar constitutes a significant component of the national-level scientific research project titled "Innovating Methods for Effective Resource Mobilization and Utilization to Develop Transportation Infrastructure in the Mekong Delta Region, Adapting to Climate Change," led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Quang Hung - UEH Executive Vice President. This serves as a prime example of UEH's "Multidisciplinary and Sustainable University" vision, which consistently aims to link academic research with practical contributions to local socio-economic development.

Representing Dong Thap province, attendees included: Mr. Nguyen Cu Trinh - Vice Director of the Department of Construction; Mr. Nguyen Xuan Cuong - Vice Director of the Department of Finance; Mr. Vo Pham Tan - Vice Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism; along with representatives from specialized divisions of Dong Thap's departments and agencies.

From UEH, the seminar was honored by the presence of: Prof. Dr. Su Dinh Thanh - President of UEH (2020-2025 term); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Thi Bich Nguyet - Chairwoman of the Strategy and Policy Advisory Council; Dr. Nguyen Thi Thy Lieu - Standing Vice Director of UEH Mekong; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thi Hong Nham - Vice Dean of the UEH Institute of Innovation (UII); MA. Dao Thi Minh Huyen - Interim Head of the Office of the College of Technology and Design; Dr. Nguyen Kim Duc - Vice Dean of the Institute for Regional Development Research and Consulting; along with esteemed faculty, scientists, and members of the research team from the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City.

Delivering the opening remarks, Mr. Nguyen Cu Trinh - Vice Director of the Dong Thap Provincial Department of Construction, shared: “In the 2021-2025 period, with the decisive leadership of the Provincial Party Committee, People's Council, and People's Committee, and the synchronized coordination of various departments, Dong Thap has achieved many positive results in transportation infrastructure development, contributing to socio-economic growth and improving the quality of life for its people. However, the province still faces challenges regarding material resources, site clearance, and infrastructure uniformity. Today's seminar is an opportunity for experts, scientists, and the local government to discuss and propose feasible solutions, aiming to establish a modern, sustainable, and regionally impactful transportation system for the entire Mekong Delta by 2030.”

Mr. Nguyen Cu Trinh - Vice Director of the Dong Thap Provincial Department of Construction, delivering his opening remarks

In his keynote address, Prof. Dr. Su Dinh Thanh - President of UEH (2020-2025 term), emphasized: “The Mekong Delta is a region of special strategic importance, yet it faces numerous challenges, particularly the bottleneck of transportation infrastructure amidst climate change. With the responsibility of a research-oriented university, UEH has been entrusted by the State to carry out the project ‘Innovating Methods for Effective Resource Mobilization and Utilization to Develop Transportation Infrastructure in the Mekong Delta Region, Adapting to Climate Change.’ This project holds profound theoretical and practical significance, aiming to enhance the scientific basis, assess the current situation, and propose solutions for developing modern, sustainable, and climate-resilient transportation infrastructure, thereby serving the socio-economic development strategies of the region and the nation.”

Prof. Dr. Su Dinh Thanh - President of UEH (2020-2025 term), delivering the keynote address

At the seminar, representatives from Dong Thap's departments and agencies delivered several in-depth presentations on planning, finance, and the impact assessment of climate change on the province's transportation system:

+ The Department of Construction presented on "The Current State and Orientation of Dong Thap's Transportation Infrastructure Planning to 2030, with a Vision to 2045," emphasizing the goal of building a synchronous, modern, and climate-resilient transportation system that promotes regional connectivity in the Mekong Delta.

+ The Department of Finance discussed "Mobilizing Financial Resources for Transportation Infrastructure Development in Dong Thap Province: Current Situation and Recommendations." The study affirmed that infrastructure development is a key breakthrough for Dong Thap in the 2026–2030 period, fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the province's competitiveness within the Mekong Delta.

+ The Department of Agriculture and Environment assessed "The Impacts of Climate Change on Dong Thap Province's Transportation Infrastructure System," proposing comprehensive solutions to increase infrastructure resilience and promote green, safe, and sustainable transportation under increasingly severe climate conditions.

Representatives from the Dong Thap Departments of Construction, Finance, and Agriculture & Environment delivering their presentations

The subsequent discussion session was vibrant, with numerous contributions focusing on enhancing inter-departmental coordination, attracting investment, finding solutions for resource mobilization, and proposing policies to promote green and sustainable transportation.

Delegates engage in discussion

The seminar offered a blend of perspectives, combining academic research with practical solutions to foster sustainable and climate-resilient transportation infrastructure in Dong Thap province and the broader Mekong Delta region. Insights from provincial representatives and UEH experts clarified the opportunities, challenges, and strategic actions for the upcoming period. The event served not only as a professional forum but also as a crucial platform for promoting collaboration among research, policy-making, and the community. It thereby demonstrated UEH's commitment to accompanying localities, especially the Mekong Delta provinces, on their journey of sustainable development and deep integration.