On April 16, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH) had the honor of welcoming Mr. Reynaldo Velázquez Zaldívar, Deputy Minister of Higher Education of the Republic of Cuba, and his delegation during their official visit to Vietnam.
During the meeting, HUTECH President, Prof. Dr. Sc. Ho Dac Loc, warmly welcomed the delegation and emphasized the longstanding friendship between Vietnam and Cuba. He highlighted the university’s commitment to fostering sustainable partnerships with Cuban institutions, with the goal of advancing international cooperation in higher education.
Introducing the university’s academic strengths, Prof. Dr. Sc. Ho Dac Loc noted that HUTECH offers a wide range of programs across science, technology, engineering, the arts, and applied innovation. He affirmed the importance of developing joint study programs, student exchange programs, and international research collaborations to broaden academic opportunities and promote meaningful cultural exchange among students from different countries.

Prof. Dr. Sc. Ho Dac Loc expressed his pleasure in welcoming the Deputy Minister of Higher Education of the Republic of Cuba and his delegation
The President also expressed HUTECH’s readiness to welcome Cuban students for study and research, while hoping to offer its own students valuable learning and cultural experiences in Cuba. He viewed the meeting as an important step toward building practical and impactful cooperation, contributing to the deepening of the traditional relationship between the two nations.
Deputy Minister Reynaldo Velázquez Zaldívar, in turn, shared an overview of Cuba’s higher education system and outlined the country’s strategic educational priorities. In the context of global integration, he highlighted the crucial role of universities in sustainable national development—not only in providing education, but also in developing a skilled workforce aligned with the country’s needs.
Deputy Minister Reynaldo Velázquez Zaldívar shared insights into Cuba’s higher education system
He emphasized that international cooperation is a central pillar of Cuba’s education policy. These partnerships help expand academic and research opportunities, promote the exchange of expertise, and ensure that universities remain connected with global trends and innovations.

The visit also included a symbolic exchange of gifts between representatives of both sides, further affirming their commitment to deepening bilateral relations
As part of the event, HUTECH students participated in an interactive dialogue with the Deputy Minister. The discussion covered various topics, including scholarship opportunities and postgraduate programs in Cuba for international students. The Deputy Minister shared that Cuba prioritizes scholarship support for students from partner countries like Vietnam. These scholarships typically include tuition, accommodation, and basic living assistance to ensure favorable conditions for international students throughout their studies.
HUTECH students interacted and discussed with the Deputy Minister about the study programs in Cuba
He also introduced the student life experience in Cuba, describing a welcoming, research-oriented learning environment with reasonable living costs. International students benefit from strong community support and a wide range of cultural, artistic, and athletic activities that enrich their global competence and personal development.
The meeting marked an important milestone in strengthening the educational partnership between HUTECH and Cuba
Students from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Public Relations also gained practical experience in organizing diplomatic events
The visit left a strong impression on the HUTECH community, giving students a clearer view of Cuba’s higher education system and encouraging greater interest in international academic exchange.
News: Hồng Loan
Photo: Công Định
Communication Center