The Student Innovation Contest on Circular Agriculture at Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry aims to enhance the capacity of farmers, staff, young researchers, and university students in understanding and applying the principles and practices of circular agriculture. The goal is to develop and implement more sustainable approaches that help preserve ecosystems, improve food security, and enhance livelihoods for climate resilience.

Project: Promoting Circular Agriculture Towards Sustainable Rural Development, Climate Change Adaptation, and a Low-Carbon Economy in the Mountainous Regions of Vietnam — funded by the Australian Government through the Australia Alumni Grant Fund (AGF), managed by the Aus4Skills Program.

In the final days of January 2024, the circular agriculture innovation contest was launched. A total of 100 students from various faculties of the University participated. Ten teams presented their innovative ideas focusing on circular agriculture and a circular economy, aiming for green, clean, environmentally friendly production that contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Some outstanding initiatives will be further developed for demonstration at the Climate Change Park, which is designed to showcase models and best practices in climate adaptation. All ten teams were awarded by the organizers to encourage student learning and creativity.

The first prize was awarded to the “Vermiponics” idea, which combines hydroponics with earthworm farming to recycle waste and improve resource efficiency — highly praised by the judges. Second prizes went to initiatives from the Faculty of Forestry and the Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine. The remaining teams received third and consolation prizes.