The University of Danang (UD) hosted Honorary Professor Erich Lejeune, Chairman of the German organization “Heart for Heart Foundation for Life” on January 6, 2025. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Ngọc Vũ, President of UD, welcomed Prof. Lejeune, marking the university’s first international visit of the new year.

The meeting brought together leaders from UD and its School of Medicine and Pharmacy, including Dr. Lê Viết Nho, MD, Rector; representatives from the Departments of Academic Affairs and Educational Quality Assurance; Science and International Cooperation; Student Affairs, Partners and Communications; and Dr. Phan Thế Phước Long, MD, Head of the Faculty of Odonto-Stomatology.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Ngọc Vũ highlighted UD’s recent progress and its designation by the Central Steering Committee for Science, Technology, Innovation and Digital Transformation as one of four universities prioritized for investment to serve as models for national higher education (Conclusion Notice No. 45). He described the recognition as both an opportunity and a responsibility, adding that UD aims to rank among Asia’s top 150 universities by 2030, with at least one discipline placed in the global top 100.

The UD president expressed appreciation for the long-standing support of Honorary Professor Erich Lejeune and Honorary Doctor Irene Lejeune for the university and the city of Danang. He also called for continued cooperation with industry to advance research, application and technology transfer. UD further sought support from Prof. Erich Lejeune and “Heart for Heart Foundation for Life” to establish a simulation center for teaching and research at the School of Medicine and Pharmacy, strengthening hands-on training.

Prof. Erich Lejeune welcomed the opportunity to return to UD, noting two decades of cooperation with the university and the city on academic initiatives and public health. He reaffirmed his commitment, and that of “Heart for Heart Foundation for Life” to support UD, local hospitals, and the School of Medicine and Pharmacy in training healthcare professionals and improving services. He said targeted funding would be provided to help the school expand its development and encourage teaching and research.

Representatives of the School of Medicine and Pharmacy thanked Prof. Erich Lejeune and Honorary Doctor Irene Lejeune for their sustained support through “Heart for Heart Foundation for Life”. To mark Irene Lejeune’s 80th birthday, UD and the school plan a ceremony recognizing the couple’s contributions to faculty and students.

Both sides underscored their intention to deepen ties and expand the impact of joint efforts in serving the community. Later the same day, Prof. Erich Lejeune met with the School of Medicine and Pharmacy to review reports and discuss proposals aimed at ensuring effective, practical cooperation in training and public service.

UD Media