On the afternoon of May 23, 2025, Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, had a meeting and interactive discussion with students of Ha Long University. Attending the event was also Ms. Nguyen Thi Hanh, Vice Chairwoman of Quang Ninh Provincial People's Committee.

Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo visits Ha Long University for interactive discussion with students on heritage protection

Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo shared with lecturers and students the role of cultural heritage in socio-economic development, as well as experiences and solutions for the preservation and promotion of the world heritage values of Vietnam and Quang Ninh in particular. He especially emphasized the role of the younger generation in spreading heritage values, describing them as a “crucial factor” in the survival of heritage. Young people, specifically Ha Long University students, should develop a deep awareness of their responsibility toward Ha Long Bay – a World Natural Heritage site – through activities such as promoting and raising awareness of heritage values, participating in environmental protection initiatives, and proposing innovative ideas.

 

Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo speaks at the event

During the open dialogue, students also expressed their interest in heritage-related issues, such as UNESCO’s evaluation of the conservation efforts at Ha Long Bay and recommendations for the local community to continue safeguarding and promoting its heritage values, as well as the nomination process of the Yen Tu – Vinh Nghiem – Con Son, Kiep Bac Complex for recognition as a World Heritage Site.

Ha Long University students interact and ask questions to Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo

This was a valuable opportunity for the university’s faculty and students to learn from international experiences and gain insights into new approaches to heritage conservation—a field of growing importance both globally and in Vietnam. At the same time, the event served as an inspiration to further awaken a sense of responsibility in students for cultural and natural heritage, the community, and the country’s sustainable development future.

Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo with Dr. Nguyen Duc Tiep, Rector of Ha Long University

The visit by Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo opens up opportunities to promote international cooperation programs in education, heritage conservation, sustainable tourism development, and cultural exchange between Ha Long University and UNESCO-affiliated organizations.

Mr. Lazare Eloundou Assomo with lecturers and students of Ha Long University

Ha Long University was established in 2014 through the merger of various long-standing educational institutions in Quang Ninh Province. Currently, the university is home to over 8,000 students at both undergraduate and college levels, with more than 2,000 students enrolled in programs related to culture, tourism, and heritage management—fields that are closely aligned with the core values of the region and the goals of sustainable development in the era of globalization.

Delegates take commemorative photos with lecturers and students of Ha Long University
 

Communications Department