On October 15, 2026, Hanoi University of Civil Engineering (HUE), in collaboration with Shimizu Vietnam Co., Ltd. (Shimizu VN), organized the 6th Shimizu Open Academy (SOA 2026), with the theme "Creating the Future - Exploring Japanese Technologies Shaping the World of Tomorrow".

The program was attended by representatives from the leadership of Hanoi University of Civil Engineering, Shimizu Vietnam Co., Ltd., FaB-Tec Japan Co., Ltd., partner organizations, lecturers, and students of the University.

The program provided in-depth insights into modern construction technology, while strengthening the connection between university education and business practice, expanding learning and career development opportunities for students.

Overview of the Shimizu Open Academy 2026 Program

Strengthening cooperation between the school and international businesses.

Shimizu Open Academy is an annual thematic program that promotes cooperation between Hanoi University of Civil Engineering and Shimizu Corporation (Japan). Through activities sharing knowledge, experience, and technology, the program provides opportunities for lecturers and students to access new development trends in the construction industry and better understand the practical requirements of businesses.

SOA 2026 took place in the atmosphere of the University's upcoming celebration of the 60th anniversary of the founding of Hanoi University of Civil Engineering (1966 - 2026). This is a particularly significant milestone, further affirming the University's development orientation in training, scientific research, technology transfer, and expanding international cooperation.

In his opening remarks, Professor Dr. Nguyen Hoang Giang - Vice Rector Hanoi University of Civil Engineering (HUCE) emphasizes the crucial role of international cooperation and business connections in maintaining the university's leading position. SOA is not only an effective collaboration between HUCE and Shimizu, but also a testament to the model of linking high-quality human resource training institutions with businesses possessing technological capabilities and practical experience.

Professor Nguyen Hoang Giang expressed his belief that the advanced knowledge and practical experience shared at SOA 2026 will help lecturers and students broaden their horizons, access international technology trends, and ignite their passion for research, innovation, and career development.

Prof. Dr. Nguyen Hoang Giang - Vice Rector Hanoi University of Civil Engineering delivered a speech at the program.

Four technology topics offer new perspectives on the construction industry.

With the theme "Shaping the Future," SOA 2026 focuses on four themes, reflecting notable technological approaches in the construction and infrastructure sector.

1. Robots Shaping the Future - Robots, Digital Models, and Real-Scale 3D Printing Technology

The presentation was given by Mr. Matsumoto Shinichi, Director of the Shizuoka Branch of Shimizu Corporation. The content focused on the application of robots in construction, digital modeling, and 3D concrete printing technology on a real-world scale. Through this, attendees had the opportunity to learn about technological solutions that are contributing to changing the way construction activities are organized and implemented. Modern construction.

Mr. Matsumoto Shinichi presented a topic at the program.

2. Building the seemingly impossible - Overcoming complex construction challenges.

Ms. Yasutomi Ayako, Head of Architectural Engineering at Shimizu Corporation, shared solutions and planning methods for construction projects with complex structures, spaces, and technical requirements. The workshop helped participants understand how practical challenges are addressed using specialized knowledge, technical expertise, and project implementation experience.

Ms. Yasutomi Ayako presented a topic at the program.

3. Can the city "drink" the rain? - Green infrastructure creates flood-resistant cities and adapts to climate change.

With a presentation by Ms. Hashimoto Jun, Head of Green Infrastructure at Shimizu Corporation, the seminar introduced perspectives on green infrastructure and stormwater management in urban areas. This topic is related to pressing issues of sustainable urban development, aiming for adaptation to climate change and mitigation of flooding challenges.

Ms. Hashimoto Jun presented a topic at the program.

4. Moving the Giants - The Art and Techniques of Installing Large-Scale Bridges

Mr. Kaga Toyotake, Board Member and Senior Managing Director, and Director of Bridge Business at FaB-Tec Japan, shared insights on large-scale steel bridge installation techniques. A highlight was the Ohi Bridge installation project using a synchronous lifting method at night, which won the Constructsteel Innovation Award in 2024; along with solutions to improve construction efficiency through digital transformation and H-SAW hot wire welding technology.

Dad The thematic sessions provided diverse perspectives on technology, construction organization, and infrastructure development, ranging from automation in construction to bridge engineering solutions and sustainable urban development orientations.

Mr. Kaga Toyotake presented a topic at the program.

Connecting classroom knowledge with professional practice.

In addition to technical topics, the program also included a sharing of practical experience from Mr. Dao Viet Anh, an engineer at Shimizu Vietnam Co., Ltd. His real-world experiences and lessons learned in the early stages of his career provided students with a closer look at the working environment in an international construction company.

During the program, students had the opportunity to interact directly with engineers and experts from Shimizu working in fields such as design, construction, cost estimation, purchasing, and mechanical and electrical engineering. This activity provided students with a chance to learn more about the nature of the work, professional requirements, and future career paths.

The Q&A session between participants and speakers further expanded the space for academic exchange, encouraging students to proactively ask questions and connect learned knowledge with real-world situations and requirements.

Students asked questions and exchanged ideas with experts at the program.

Continuing our collaborative journey, we aim to develop high-quality human resources.

In the year leading up to its 60th anniversary, the 6th Shimizu Open Academy continues to be a significant milestone in the cooperation between Hanoi University of Civil Engineering and Shimizu. Building on the foundation of cooperation established over a decade, both sides have further opportunities to promote practical activities, connect professional knowledge with the needs of businesses, and expand learning, internship, and employment opportunities for students.

Through SOA 2026, Hanoi University of Civil Engineering continues to affirm its orientation towards strengthening international cooperation, connecting with businesses, and improving the quality of training, contributing to preparing human resources with expertise, innovative thinking, and the ability to adapt to the future development of the construction industry.

Hanoi University of Civil Engineering would like to express its sincere gratitude to Shimizu Corporation, Shimizu Vietnam Co., Ltd., FaB-Tec Japan Co., Ltd., speakers, partners, faculty members, and all students for their support and contributions to the success of the Shimizu Open Academy 2026 program.

Phòng TT&TS