On March 14, 2025, Vinh University hosted the Kick-off and Consultation Meeting for the project Gender, Climate Change and Forest Landscape Governance: Insights from Laos PDR, Myanmar, and Vietnam.

The project is funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) through the Regional Community Forestry Training Center for Asia and the Pacific (RECOFTC) and implemented by Vinh University. It has been approved by the Ministry of Education and Training for the period 2024–2027.

The meeting was attended by representatives from RECOFTC, various departments and agencies of Nghe An province, social organizations, and local leaders from Tuong Duong district (Nghe An province).

Representing Vinh University were school leaders, staff from various departments and centers, scientists, faculty, and students from the Institute of Biochemical Technology—Environmental Science and the Biology Department (School of Education), along with project experts.

Overview of the Kick-off and Consultation Meeting

In his opening speech, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Hoa Du (Vice Chairman of the University Council) emphasized the project‘s importance in scientific research and real-world applications. He highlighted the role it played in promoting sustainable development, forest conservation, and gender equality. 

The meeting served as a platform to discuss research on gender, climate change, and forest landscape governance, aiming to propose solutions for sustainability and resource protection. 

Vinh University hopes to strengthen collaboration with national and international scientists, applying research to practice for better gender equality and sustainable forest management.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Hoa Du, Member of the Standing Committee of the Party Committee and Vice Chairman of the University Council of Vinh University, delivered the opening speech at the meeting.

Dr. Hao Zhuang, Manager of the EXPLORE Program, delivered a speech at the meeting

In his speech, Dr. Hao Zhuang (EXPLORE Program Manager) explained EXPLORE as a research program funded by the Swedish Government to connect science with policy and strengthen research on forest landscape governance in Southeast Asia. 

With participation from over 20 universities, research institutes, and 120 scientists, the program supports studies on gender equality, agroforestry, climate change adaptation, and watershed management. Vinh University, the project lead, has built strong partnerships with communities and organizations in Laos and Myanmar. 

EXPLORE aims to collaborate with governments and local communities to ensure research findings, guide policy decisions, and support communities—especially women—in adapting to policy changes, climate challenges, and maintaining sustainable livelihoods.

At the meeting, delegates listened to four reports from project experts and participated in discussions. The project aims to bridge the gender knowledge gap by providing practical evidence to improve forest governance and climate change response in Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. 

The project’s aim in Vietnam is to publish 1–2 international research papers; implement two livelihood models in Tam Hop and Tam Thai communes (Tuong Duong District); develop training materials; conduct a gender integration course; and organize four workshops of varying levels.

Dr. Ho Thi Phuong, Project Leader, presented an overview of the EXPLORE program and the project at the meeting.

Dr. Nguyen Quang Tan, Project Expert, shared the project‘s initial findings.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dao Thi Minh Chau, Project Expert, introduced a livelihood model for growing white basil on fallow land in Tam Hop commune.

MSc. Nguyen Thanh Nham, Project Expert, presented a livelihood model for climate-resilient pig farming in Tam Thaái commune.

During the discussion period, delegates openly exchanged ideas on the opportunities and challenges of strengthening collaboration between researchers, government agencies, social organizations, and local communities. They emphasized the importance of scaling up sustainable livelihood models that adapt to climate change while promoting forest governance and empowering women and vulnerable groups. These efforts not only support sustainable development but also provide practical insights for policymakers and managers.

Vinh University presented souvenirs to RECOFTC experts.

RECOFTC experts took a group photo with Vinh University staff and project members.

Delegates took a commemorative photo at the meeting