On December 5, 2025, a delegation from the Mekong Institute, Can Tho University—led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Van Pham Dang Tri, Director of the Institute—visited the People’s Committee of My Tu Commune, Can Tho City, to discuss strategic directions for cooperation in science and technology, innovation, and human resource development. This event marks an important effort in operationalizing the spirit of Resolution 57-NQ/TW of the Politburo on breakthroughs in science, technology, and innovation.
The Mekong Institute believes that science and technology, when effectively tailored to local conditions, can become a key driver for improving labor productivity, enhancing climate resilience, and promoting sustainable local economic growth.
During the visit, the delegation and local leaders conducted field surveys of several production models in My Tu Commune, such as floating fish enclosures, duck farming, and lotus cultivation, and discussed the ecological characteristics of the commune’s acid sulfate lowland areas. Representatives from local government agencies, the Mekong Institute, and agricultural export enterprises also explored opportunities to develop and strengthen value chains for climate-resilient agricultural products (including coconut, sugarcane, and lotus). These assessments serve as an important foundation for identifying development potentials, technical support needs, and key challenges currently faced in agricultural production.
As part of the cooperation program, the People’s Committee of My Tu Commune and the Mekong Institute signed a Memorandum of Understanding focusing on several key areas: developing ecological, organic, and smart agriculture; establishing multi-value and ecological crop rotation models; promoting circular economy practices; researching climate adaptation and disaster-risk management solutions; and strengthening production organizations and local governance capacity.
This collaborative model not only addresses immediate needs but also aims to build an innovation ecosystem in rural areas—where local authorities, scientists, and businesses work closely together to generate new value.
The signing of the “Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Science, Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation for Local Socio-Economic Development” marks a new milestone in the partnership between My Tu Commune, Can Tho City, and the Mekong Institute of Can Tho University. With clear strategic, strong commitment from both sides, and the Institute’s expertise in research, training, and technology transfer, the cooperation program is expected to bring forth practical production models, technological solutions, training initiatives, and value-chain linkages that will enhance economic efficiency, improve environmental quality, and deliver meaningful benefits to the people of My Tu Commune.