The event carried special significance as it marked the 15th anniversary of the establishment and development of the Viet Nam Association for Intellectual Women (2011–2026). It was not only an occasion to honour outstanding individuals in science, education, healthcare, culture, socio-economic development and international integration, but also to spread the spirit of dedication, inspire creativity and encourage future generations of women to contribute ever more effectively to the country’s prosperity.
At the ceremony, 44 outstanding intellectual women were honoured for the first time during the Association’s 15-year journey of development. In addition, 118 exemplary members of the Viet Nam Association for Intellectual Women for the 2021–2026 period were commended for their notable achievements in professional activities, scientific research and contributions to the community.
Addressing the ceremony, Politburo member, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and President of the VFF Central Committee Bui Thi Minh Hoai affirmed that the event aimed to recognise the remarkable achievements of female intellectuals in science and technology as well as the activities of the Viet Nam Association for Intellectual Women. The 162 scientists and members honoured at the ceremony had affirmed the position of Viet Nam’s female intellectuals in scientific research, education, healthcare, culture and foreign affairs, making important contributions to national development, improving people’s quality of life and promoting the values of Vietnamese women in the international arena.
She added that they also reflected the continuous growth of the Viet Nam Association for Intellectual Women over the past 15 years. The Association has gradually affirmed its role as an organisation connecting, promoting and spreading the value of Vietnamese female intellectuals through numerous diverse and effective activities both domestically and internationally.
The President of the VFF Central Committee expressed her hope that with all their enthusiasm, intellect and courage, intellectual women would continue making great contributions to the nation’s innovation, creativity and digital transformation, helping build a prosperous, strong, democratic and civilised society.
According to Professor Dr Le Thi Hop, President of the Viet Nam Association for Intellectual Women, the 44 outstanding Vietnamese intellectual women honoured at the ceremony represented exemplary models of intellect, courage and dedication. Through their achievements in scientific research, education, healthcare, culture and foreign affairs, they had made important contributions to the country’s development and improved people’s quality of life.
She also noted that today’s ceremony served as an occasion to acknowledge and express gratitude for the valuable contributions of Vietnamese women intellectuals, while also encouraging younger generations of female intellectuals to continue developing their talents and contributing to both the Association and the country.
Among the 44 outstanding intellectual women were 14 Professors, 14 Associate Professors, two People’s Teachers, three Meritorious Teachers, two People’s Doctors, one Meritorious Doctor, two People’s Artists, one Ambassador and four Labour Heroes in the Renewal Period. Several notable figures included Professor Dr Nguyen Thi Doan, former Party Central Committee member, former Vice President of Viet Nam, President of the Viet Nam Association for Promoting Education and Honourary President of the Viet Nam Association for Intellectual Women; Professor Dr Pham Thi Tran Chau, former President of the Association during its first and second terms; and Labour Hero, Associate Professor Dr Nguyen Thi Tram, who successfully developed many high-quality rice varieties.
The Viet Nam Association for Intellectual Women was established on March 8, 2011 with an initial membership of 350. After 15 years of development, the Association now brings together nearly 6,000 members nationwide, all making active contributions across many areas of social life.
Since 2018, the Association has officially become a member of the International Network of Women Engineers and Scientists – Asia and Pacific Nation Network (INWES-APNN), thereby expanding its international relations and gradually affirming its position on the global stage.