Page 8 - Technical Cooperation Project for Building Capacity for Can Tho University...

Message from JICA

Firstly, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all who have continuously contributed to “the
Project for Building Capacity for Can Tho University to be an Excellent Institution of Education, Scientific
Research, and Technology Transfer” (hereafter called “the Project”).
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has an honor to be a trusted partner of Can
Tho University (CTU) for many years. During the last six years, the Project has been implemented
successfully, thanks to great efforts by the faculty members, supporting staff of CTU as well as the team
of JICA experts. I do believe that the CTU’s capacity has been highly strengthened in terms of education,
scientific research and technology transfer. As a result, CTU is now regarded by the Vietnamese
Government as the educational and scientific hub of the Mekong Delta.
To sum up the six years, the Project has accomplished a number of important achievements, including
establishment of the new master’s program with two courses in collaboration with local governments.
This must have required earnest dedication from both CTU and local governments. Moreover, CTU
has successfully enhanced networks with local governments and enterprises, as well as with Japanese
researchers through research, workshops and meetings. The networking must also have needed strong
commitment by CTU and understanding by stakeholders. Overall, both continuous endeavor of CTU
and dedicated support from Japanese supporting universities have been the key factors for the smooth
operation and the valuable outcomes of the Project.
Although the current Project will terminate in December 2021, CTU is expected by the Government to
remain the regional hub for the Sustainable Development of the Mekong Delta (hereafter called “SDMD”).
Meeting this expectation might be somewhat challenging. However, I believe it is achievable by fully
utilizing the enhanced capacity and assets that CTU cultivated through the Project. CTU must be able to
contribute to SDMD by establishing practical models for adapting to climate change, especially in the
fields of agriculture and aquaculture. JICA will remain as a close partner for CTU and the Mekong Delta
Region and continue the journey with CTU.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere gratitude to all the partners
including the Central Government, particularly Ministry of Education and Training, Ministry of Finance,
Ministry of Planning and Investment, 13 Local Governments of the Mekong Delta, partner companies,
universities, farmers and also nine Japanese Supporting Universities for their continuous support and
encouragement to the Project.

SAKUMA Jun
Director General
Human Development Department
Japan International Cooperation Agency

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