On June 3, 2025, Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry (TUAF) – Thai Nguyen University had the honor of welcoming a delegation from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and Bread for the World (BftW) for an official visit under the framework of the “Learning Center for Carbon Neutrality and Climate Resilience in Northern Vietnam (LEARN–VN)” project.
The visit aimed to assess the implementation progress of the LEARN–VN project and explore its impacts on local communities in Thai Nguyen province and Northern Vietnam more broadly. It also served as an opportunity for both sides to discuss and develop future cooperation orientations to continue advancing sustainable development goals amid increasingly complex climate change challenges.
In his welcome speech at the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thanh Van, Vice President of Thai Nguyen University, warmly welcomed the delegation to TUAF. He emphasized the importance of strengthening international cooperation to address global climate change, focusing on supporting vulnerable countries and communities, including Vietnam. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thanh Van also highly appreciated the fruitful collaboration between TUAF and international partners in establishing the Climate Learning Center, with the LEARN–VN project serving as a solid foundation for this process.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thanh Van, Vice President of Thai Nguyen University
During the working session, Dr. Nguyen Quang Tan, Country Coordinator of the World Agroforestry Center (ICRAF), presented an overview of the project’s progress and key achievements. These included the development of demonstration models for greenhouse gas emission reduction, enhancement of climate change adaptation capacities, and capacity-building training activities for local communities.
Dr. Nguyen Quang Tan presenting the LEARN–VN project at the meeting
Representatives from BMZ and BftW commended the effectiveness and practical outcomes of the LEARN–VN project, especially in promoting climate awareness and action at the local level. Representatives from Thai Nguyen’s provincial departments and project beneficiary groups also acknowledged and expressed strong support for the project’s contributions in enhancing community resilience to climate change.
Representatives from BMZ and BftW speaking at the meeting
Following the working session, the delegation visited the Climate Park, where they observed various demonstration models showcasing climate adaptation solutions, including forest restoration, agroforestry, integrated farming systems, vermiculture, cooling chambers, solar-powered drying houses, and an engaging sensory pathway experience.
To conclude the visit, the delegation participated in tree planting activities at the Climate Park, symbolizing their shared commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.
The delegation visiting demonstration models at the Climate Park
The delegation participating in tree planting at the Climate Park
At the end of the visit, all parties reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration and strengthening partnerships in the time ahead to further maximize the role and impact of the LEARN–VN project. The project is expected to continue contributing significantly to Vietnam’s national commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as pledged at COP26, while enhancing community capacity to respond to global climate challenges.
Delegates taking commemorative photos at the event
LEARN–VN stands not only as a scientific initiative but also as a long-term effort to connect knowledge, technology, and community action towards sustainable development and effective climate adaptation in Vietnam./.
