The Hitachi Global Foundation Asia Innovation Award was initiated in 2020 to promote science, technology and innovation, contributing to solving social issues and realizing sustainable societies in the ASEAN region.
The award honors individuals and organizations that serve the public interest through outstanding achievements in research and development (R&D) in the fields of science and technology.
In 2024, the selection committee evaluated applications from 26 universities and research institutes in 6 ASEAN countries and selected the best names, including 6 Vietnamese scientists.
Entering its fifth year, the programme has seen a significant improvement in the quality of its research. Applications show a strong interest in research related to industrial technology, reflecting a growing movement in Southeast Asia towards linking research with practice.
Some initiatives have achieved great results, such as obtaining patents and conducting pilot projects to develop products in cooperation with local companies. Such projects received high marks from the selection committee.
The Council conducts a rigorous selection process from September to October 2024, comprehensively assessing applications, academic documents, other supporting documents and online interviews, as well as considering differences in national research and development capabilities.
Finally, a total of 14 award-winning projects were selected (1 Best Innovation Award, 4 Outstanding Innovation Awards and 9 Encouragement Awards).
Specifically, the Outstanding Innovation Award worth 1 million yen each was awarded to Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Huu Hieu, Ho Chi Minh City National University and Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Thi Ai Nhung, University of Sciences (Hue University); the Encouragement Award worth 500,000 yen each was awarded to Associate Professor, Dr. Luong Xuan Dien, Associate Professor, Dr. Vu Thu Trang, both from the School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Dinh Quan, University of Science and Technology (Ho Chi Minh City National University), Dr. Vo Nguyen Xuan Phuong, Ton Duc Thang University.
Two Vietnamese scientists win Outstanding Innovation Award
The work "Synthesis of nanomaterials from biomass for applications in furfural production and wastewater treatment" by Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Huu Hieu aims to solve the problem of pollution from organic dyes, heavy metals and antibiotics that are dangerous to human health and the ecosystem.
In addition, the economic value of surplus agricultural by-products is limited, but they pose significant cost pressures for proper waste management and disposal. These challenges highlight the urgent need for sustainable development and environmental pollution reduction.
Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Huu Hieu, owner of the research project "Synthesis of nanomaterials from biomass for applications in furfural production and wastewater treatment". Photo: NVCC
The development of bio-based materials opens up avenues to address both economic and environmental concerns. Enhanced methods of biofuel production can replace conventional fuels, contributing to the reduction of air pollution.
Additionally, they can be converted into effective agents for environmental remediation, targeting pollutants such as heavy metals and organic pollutants (such as antibiotics and dyes).
Focusing on innovative synthesis and optimization techniques, bio-based materials are promising solutions for sustainable industrial and environmental applications.
Pilot projects can be scaled up through collaboration with businesses to treat wastewater and the results are measured against international water quality standards to ensure the safety of local water sources.
In addition, creatively utilizing natural resources will contribute to social development by linking technological progress with sustainable practices.
According to Mr. Hieu, “through innovation in research and application of advanced materials, we will make a meaningful contribution by converting wasted biomass into applicable materials to generate clean energy, improve the environment and mitigate climate change, bringing a better living environment for future generations.”
The second Vietnam Outstanding Innovation Award was given to Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Thi Ai Nhung, owner of the project "Research and development of pharmaceuticals from endemic medicinal plants using environmentally friendly extraction technology and modern simulation methods".
According to the author, pollution, climate change, and pesticide residues are not only harmful to health but also contribute to antibiotic resistance, reducing the effectiveness of drugs.
Research into natural medicines is aimed at enhancing treatment and boosting immunity. However, unsustainable harvesting of herbs can be harmful to the environment.
Combining simulation, testing and environmentally friendly extraction methods provides effective, timely disease treatments.
Products from the project "Research and development of pharmaceuticals from endemic medicinal plants using environmentally friendly extraction technology and modern simulation methods" by Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Thi Ai Nhung. Photo: NVCC
Therefore, the author builds a national medicinal plant database for Thua Thien Hue, facilitating effective management and conservation by providing necessary data on indigenous and rare plant species.
Medicinal plant conservation areas were established in Bach Ma National Park and Phong Dien Nature Reserve, and nurseries were established to test and propagate endemic species.
Advanced extraction methods are used to safely isolate bioactive compounds. These innovations promote green manufacturing, raise public awareness, and enhance educational programs.
Research focuses on biological and chemical analysis of endemic medicinal plants such as Distichochlamys (black ginger), Cordyceps (cordyceps sinensis), to develop treatments for bacterial infections and symptomatic treatment of diseases, using computational modeling and laboratory experiments to address antibiotic resistance.
Research results enable mass production of high-quality Vietnamese medical products, benefiting public health and economic growth.
A joint venture with HUSCI Science and Technology Joint Stock Company in Hue facilitates the commercialization of medicinal herbs, herbal teas and mushrooms. The Hue University Institute of Science manages intellectual property.
With this award, Ms. Nhung said, it will help promote Vietnamese medicinal plants, responsible production and global sustainability. She pledged to "promote research for the benefit of the community and strengthen sustainable practices for a prosperous future".
Four consolation prizes were awarded to the research work "Development of highly active gold catalysts and biomass-based nanocomposites using mechanical and surface chemistry (MCS) approaches" by Associate Professor, Dr. Luong Xuan Dien; "Economic strategy for sustainable fish-rice farming" by Dr. Vo Nguyen Xuan Phuong; "Conversion of sludge from paper production into bacterial nanocellulose for sustainable paper production" by Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Dinh Quan; "Development of sustainable and healthy plant-based products from Vietnamese plants" by Associate Professor, Dr. Vu Thu Trang.
Vietnamnet.vn
Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/6-nha-khoa-hoc-viet-nam-gianh-giai-thuong-sang-tao-chau-a-2370698.html
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