From March 25 to 28, 2025, within the framework of Component 1 of the Cooperation Project between the VNUA (Vietnam National University of Agriculture) and ARES-CCD (Academy of Research and Higher Education, Belgium), two professional training activities were successfully held at the VNUA. These are the first activities of 2025 in the ongoing collaboration between the two sides, kicked off in the spirit of learning, innovation, and academic exchange.
The first activity was a capacity-building training course for library staff and specialized department officers, focusing on the application of copyright-free online software in library management and operations.
The session was delivered by Mr. Raphael Haeck, Deputy Director of the library Moretus Plantin, University of Namur (Belgium).
The training went beyond software usage and search engine techniques, covering topics such as developing intermediary documents, supporting users, promoting library services, and integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into reader services.
The course attracted the active participation of more than 30 staff members from the Luong Dinh Cua Library and Information Center, as well as from various faculty of VNUA.
The second activity was a training session designed for nearly 50 young researchers from the faculties, institutes, and research centers.
Dr. Erika Lombart, an expert from the Department of Scientific Research at the University of Namur, delivered engaging and practical content, focusing on three key topics:
- How to write effective scientific article abstracts;
- The process and experience of submitting a research project proposal;
- Applications of AI in modern scientific research.
The session fostered an open, interactive atmosphere that inspired active engagement and meaningful discussion among participants.
The first two activities of Component 1 not only provided updated and practical knowledge for researchers and library staff, but also paved the way for deeper institutional linkages between the Vietnam National University of Agriculture and partner universities in Belgium.
Through direct collaboration with experts from the University of Namur, academic ties have been further strengthened in a practical, impactful, and sustainable direction. These initial efforts lay a solid foundation for future exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and the development of high-quality human resources.