This is a joint-education program between Okayama University and Hue University aiming to both provide the excellent researchers for Vietnam in the fields of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences and develop the professional and advanced human resources. Being established 2 years ago, till now this International Master program recruited 16 students for the first and the second course. This year, there are 8 new students being selected from 34 candidates over the country.

The Okayama-Hue International Master's Program is designed to integrate the multidisciplinary methodology of natural and social sciences, looking at the environment, economy and society in a holistic fashion. To achieve this goal, the curriculum of the program focuses on regional environmental management and sustainable agricultural development.

The duration of this program is two and half years. For the first one year, all the students are required to attend at least 9 courses in Hue. Prior to joining Okayama University, you will have a chance to enhance your Japanese language abilities as well as to prepare for your masters' thesis. After you finish the one and half years at Hue University, you will be invited to join in the final stage at Okayama University to be granted a Master's degree. The curriculum of this joint program will provide you a comprehensive understanding of regional environmental management and agricultural technologies. This curriculum is designed to provide international as well as local perspectives on rural environmental management and sustainable agricultural development. The modules of the curriculum allow students to tailor courses depending on their interests and career goals.

In April, 2009, first 8 students were transferred to our graduate schools -Graduate School of Environmental Science, and Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology- and started their study in Japan. I heard that all of them make serious efforts for research activities in order to complete their Master's thesis. Not only for research and study, but also they experience Japanese culture through many activities and festivals in Japan.

On this occasion, Hue University conferred the Honor Certificate for 7 individuals from different organizations and companies in Japan, those who have made great contributions to Okayama-Hue International Master's Program.

Reported by Hong Sam/ Translated by Loan Anh