Research and Academic Exchange

UEF Engages in Academic Exchange on Global Development Aid and Sustainable Humanitarian Systems

08/05/2026

MAY 08 - Prof. Dr. Eric Jose Olmedo Panal, Director of the Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Director of the UEF International Institute, and Dean of the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management, alongside representatives from the Department of Science, Technology and International Projects at Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance (UEF), participated in an academic sharing session hosted by Van Lang University (VLU). The event centered around the timely theme: “Global Development Aid Sector: From Annus Horribilis to Humanitarian Reset.”

The academic seminar offered multidimensional perspectives on global aid and development amidst a backdrop of continuous economic, social, and geopolitical fluctuations. The discussion deeply analyzed critical bottlenecks currently straining the international humanitarian framework, including substantial budget cuts, rising political pressures, and declining public trust in global support mechanisms.

The sharing session gathered experts and academic representatives to dissect the evolving architecture of global humanitarian aid.

Characterized as an "Annus Horribilis", a year of crisis for international aid, the current climate prompted in-depth discussions on shifting toward a fairer, more agile, and highly sustainable humanitarian system. Scholars and experts highlighted that the core focus of global assistance should transcend the traditional mindset of "doing more with less". Instead, the emphasis must shift toward pioneering innovative strategies capable of generating deep-rooted, long-term impacts for local communities.

Through this intensive exchange, participants were able to unlock vital insights, including: (1) Global Trend Updates: Keeping pace with novel movements within global aid networks and long-term sustainable development pathways. (2) Localization Realities: Realizing the increasingly significant role of local actors inside the broader humanitarian ecosystem. (3) Modern Blueprints: Approaching cutting-edge financial models and sustainable strategies currently employed worldwide.

Prof. Dr. Eric Jose Olmedo Panal received a commemorative token from Van Lang University's representative at the event

Beyond its pure scholastic value, the program successfully served as an intellectual bridge, bolstering knowledge-sharing and widening research collaboration networks among universities, field experts, and the sustainable development research community. This forum also offered an invaluable opportunity for faculty members, researchers, and students to dissect contemporary international affairs, thereby sharpening critical thinking and elevating global academic integration capacities.

The seminar provided UEF researchers with a broader outlook on global issues and strategic sustainable solutions.

By diffusing practical knowledge and forward-thinking values, this academic venture reiterates the pivotal role of education, scientific research, and innovation in driving the world closer to its sustainable development goals.

Department of Science, Technology and International Projects