HSU Launches the Institute for Southern Urban Heritage Studies, Driving Research and Sustainable Heritage Development
On the morning of July 20, 2026, Hoa Sen University inaugurated the Institute for Southern Urban Heritage Studies, opening a new chapter in heritage research, knowledge connection, and the promotion of Southern Viet Nam’s urban heritage values. Beyond establishing an interdisciplinary research space, the launch reflects Hoa Sen University’s vision of connecting academic knowledge with real-world demands and contributing meaningful values to the community and sustainable development.
Strengthening Research on Southern Viet Nam’s Urban Heritage
On the morning of July 20, 2026, Hoa Sen University (HSU) officially launched the Institute for Southern Urban Heritage Studies (HSU-SUHE), creating a new platform for heritage research, knowledge exchange, and the promotion of Southern Viet Nam’s urban heritage values.
Beyond establishing a research institute, HSU-SUHE represents a strategic step in HSU’s scientific development, addressing the urgent need to study, preserve, and promote urban heritage in response to urban transformation and sustainable development challenges.
Guided by an interdisciplinary approach, HSU-SUHE will focus on four key areas: scientific research, training, international cooperation, and community engagement. Through studies on urban heritage, architecture, landscapes, urban culture, and sustainable development, HSU-SUHE aims to preserve and promote heritage values through documentation, digital transformation, and the application of research to real-world contexts.
At the ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Huu Huy Nhut, HSU President, presented the appointment decision to Dr. Nguyen Duc Hiep, officially appointing him as Dean of HSU-SUHE.
Where Practical Problems Inspire Scientific Innovation
Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Le Van Ut, HSU Vice President for Scientific Research, highlighted that the establishment of HSU-SUHE reflected HSU’s strategic direction in scientific research development while contributing to the implementation of national priorities in science, technology, and culture.
According to Dr. Le Van Ut, HSU continued to pursue a research orientation closely connected to the practical needs of local communities and society. He further stated that addressing these challenges would enable researchers to generate new knowledge, disseminate scientific results, and promote knowledge transfer to education, enterprises, and communities, ultimately increasing the societal impact of scientific research.
He added that that approach reflected HSU’s enduring philosophy that research ought to extend beyond the boundaries of academia and contribute meaningful solutions to communities and everyday life.
Building Collaborative Networks for Heritage Research and Promotion
In his new role as Dean of HSU-SUHE, Dr. Nguyen Duc Hiep shared his expectation that the Institute would serve as a platform connecting researchers, universities, experts from Viet Nam and abroad, and local communities to promote research, conservation, and the sustainable development of Southern Viet Nam’s urban heritage values.
According to Dr. Nguyen Duc Hiep, HSU-SUHE would not be limited to conducting academic studies but would also serve as a bridge connecting research with local realities. Through collaborative projects, knowledge exchange, and community engagement, the Institute would create opportunities for cultural and historical values to be understood, preserved, and promoted.
He emphasized that this direction would not only contribute to preserving the region’s urban identity but also transform heritage into a living resource, supporting the development of sustainable conservation models for the future.
Strengthening the Role of An Applied University in Community Development
The launch of HSU-SUHE represents another step in HSU’s journey toward an applied university model, where research goes beyond academic contributions to address real-world challenges and create meaningful, long-term impacts for society.=
Through HSU-SUHE, HSU aims to strengthen connections with researchers, policymakers, and organizations in Viet Nam and abroad, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and developing innovative solutions for the preservation and sustainable development of Southern Viet Nam’s urban heritage.
