Australian alumni demonstrated their leading role in climate change collaboration between Australia and the Mekong subregion including Vietnam in the recent Alumni Climate Change Symposium in Can Tho city, a platform for ideas and opportunities in environmental protection and climate resilience.
The symposium brought together nearly 200 alumni from Vietnam and the Mekong subregion who are leveraging knowledge, skills and connection gained during their Australian education to support regional stability and growth.
Australia’s Ambassador for Climate Change Kristin Tilley joined the symposium and share Australia’s approach to tackling climate change, including measures to meet emissions reductions targets as part of the country’s Net Zero Plan.
Alumni and speakers shared their wealth of ideas for climate resilience including creating new links across the subregion, engaging the private sector, and fostering Australia-Mekong cooperation in education and research.
Ms. Tuyen (Kelly) Vo, Founder & CEO of Dear Our Community discuss “Creating links across the Mekong Region”.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ho Ngoc Son, Vice Dean, Faculty of Forestry, Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry presents his work in climate change.
The online presentation by Mr. Vannaphone Phetpaseuth, Water Specialist/GIS & Modelling Expert, Lao PDR’s National Mekong Committee Secretariat
The event showcases several alumni-led climate change initiatives across the region such as agro-ecology projects, sustainable products, and innovative solutions for shrimp farming. Recognising alumni contributions to environmental protection helps to strengthen alumni networks in a crucial area of sustainable development.
Speaking at the symposium, Australia’s Ambassador for Climate Change Kristin Tilley said “Many of Australia’s alumni are in key stages of their careers – in research, academia, government, industry, and finance – all contributing to Vietnam’s energy transition and climate ambitions. Their efforts can only deepen our collaboration on climate adaptation and resilience, climate resilient agriculture, and food and water security – especially here in the Mekong Delta, including through the Mekong-Australia Partnership.”
“Together we will find new ways to stimulate private investment into Vietnam’s mitigation and adaptation efforts, develop high quality human resources, and strengthen governance. We can explore opportunities for cooperation on climate action, carbon markets and the green economy,” she added.
Australian Ambassador for Climate Change Kristin Tilley visits the displays of sustainable projects by Australian alumni.
Discussion on global challenges posed by climate change Australia’s approach, and partnerships with Southeast Asian countries.
Climate change roundtable discussion with representatives from DFAT, Vietnam’s MONRE, and major businesses in Vietnam.
The Alumni Climate Change Symposium also demonstrates Australia and Vietnam’s commitment to working together to support capacity building for socioeconomic development, including the long-term professional development of alumni.
There are over 80,000 Australian alumni in Vietnam, including over 6,500 Australia Awards recipients. Vietnamese alumni of Australian education have vast knowledge, expertise and influence, and are making valuable contributions to Vietnam and strengthening links with Australia./.
