On April 24, 2026, in a solemn atmosphere, Hanoi University of Civil Engineering (HUCE) officially held the opening ceremony for the second degree program in Civil Engineering – specializing in Special Construction Engineering (Nuclear Power Plant Construction) – exclusively for students from Vinaconex Corporation.

Attending the opening ceremony, on behalf of Vinaconex Corporation, were Mr. Dao Ngoc Thanh - Chairman of the Strategic Council, along with leaders and staff from Vinaconex Corporation and its member companies; on behalf of Hanoi University of Civil Engineering, were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Phu Doanh - Vice Rector, along with faculty members, leaders of various units, and lecturers from Hanoi University of Civil Engineering; and all students of the Civil Engineering program - specializing in Special Construction Engineering (Nuclear Power Plant Construction).

The ceremony not only marked a milestone in the strategic cooperation between the university and businesses, but also strongly affirmed HUCE's pioneering position in training for cutting-edge industries. In the context of the country focusing its efforts on key energy infrastructure, mastering the construction techniques for specialized projects – those requiring the world's most stringent safety and technical standards – is a strategic task to ensure national energy security.

Overview of the Opening Ceremony Hall

Given the increasing demand for clean and stable energy, nuclear power is considered one of the potential solutions contributing to the realization of the net-zero emissions target by 2050, as committed at COP26. This trend is attracting the attention of many countries, especially as nuclear power is considered crucial for the development of data centers and artificial intelligence. In reality, the demand for human resources in the construction and operation of nuclear power plants is enormous. However, in Vietnam, there are currently no specialized training programs in the construction of these projects. In nuclear power projects, civil engineers play a key role, from designing and constructing specific components to applying advanced materials and technologies that meet international standards. This workforce also participates in supporting operation, troubleshooting, and maintaining structural and foundation works throughout the project's lifecycle. Given this need, establishing a training program in Nuclear Power Plant Construction Engineering at Hanoi University of Civil Engineering is essential. The university has strengths in civil engineering training, a team of experienced lecturers in structural engineering, construction, and geotechnical engineering, and a network of international cooperation in training and research. Furthermore, the planned nuclear power project in Ninh Thuan further highlights the urgent need for high-quality human resources. This training program aims to supplement in-depth knowledge for engineers and technical staff, strengthen connections between the university and businesses, meet the human resource needs of key projects with high technical requirements, and create a reserve of experts for the industry in the future.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Associate Professor Bui Phu Doanh, Vice Rector of the university, once again affirmed the "breakthrough and profoundly strategic step" of Hanoi University of Civil Engineering in launching the specialized course in Construction Engineering, specifically nuclear power plant construction. He also stated, "The collaboration between Hanoi University of Civil Engineering and Vinaconex Corporation – a strategic partner with extensive practical experience – is a prime example of the 'Three-Party' partnership: the State, the University, and the Enterprise. We believe that this collaboration will create a generation of talented engineers, strong in both scientific theory and practical skills, perfectly meeting the requirements of the nation's major energy projects."

Associate Professor Bui Phu Doanh - Vice Rector of the university, delivered a speech at the Opening Ceremony.

Mr. Dao Ngoc Thanh, Chairman of the Strategic Council of Vinaconex Corporation, also emotionally shared, “Hanoi University of Civil Engineering, for me and for the construction industry, has always been a symbol, a cradle for training generations of talented engineers for the country. Our choice to cooperate with the university to open a training course in special construction engineering, specifically nuclear power plant construction, is a strategic step for Vinaconex.” Mr. Thanh, as well as the leadership of Vinaconex Corporation, believe that “under the guidance of experienced teachers from Hanoi University of Civil Engineering, the students will make the most of their study time to equip themselves with the deepest professional knowledge, meeting the stringent standards of special construction projects.”

Mr. Dao Ngoc Thanh - Chairman of the Strategic Council of Vinaconex Corporation, delivered a speech at the Opening Ceremony.

In the context of the ongoing global energy transition aimed at addressing climate change and ensuring energy security, nuclear power continues to be considered by many countries as one of the crucial pillars of their national power systems. The energy transition is no longer an option, but a "mandate" for the future. In the context of global climate change and energy security, Vietnam is facing historic decisions. With its ability to provide stable, large-scale electricity and low carbon emissions, nuclear power offers both significant potential and imposes stringent requirements regarding safety, risk management, and institutional capacity. For Vietnam, correctly understanding the role, limitations, and conditions for developing nuclear power is a crucial prerequisite for any discussion about the future of energy.

In reality, there is a "golden triangle" in nuclear energy human resource training: enterprises, research institutes, and universities. Therefore, Hanoi University of Civil Engineering – as one of the 11 designated educational institutions for training high-quality nuclear personnel – will leverage its pioneering strengths by launching this engineering program. Many nuclear energy experts have expressed the view that, for the nuclear energy industry, "the biggest risk doesn't come from the machinery, but from the human factor." This once again affirms the importance of training high-quality human resources.

Reference:

• https://baodautu.vn/khoi-dong-dao-tao-ky-su-xay-dung-dien-hat-nhan-don-dau-xu-the-nang-luong-moi-d576661.html
• https://baoxaydung.vn/khai-giang-lop-ky-su-xay-dung-dac-biet-cho-du-an-dien-hat-nhan-192260424183016396.html

Tin: Diệu Linh; Ảnh - Phạm Nhung (Phòng TT&TS)