The International Forum Franconomics-2024: Renewable Energy: Scenario for a Green Future

Franconomics - 2024 saw participation from representatives of embassies, diplomatic agencies, international organizations, universities, and businesses both domestic and foreign, as well as media agencies within and outside the Francophone community from around the world.

On the part of the Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU), the forum was honored to welcome Assoc. Prof. Dr. Đào Thanh Trường, Vice Director; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lê Tuấn Anh, Head of the Cooperation and Development Department; and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Trương Ngọc Kiểm, Deputy Head of the Promotion and Investment Department, who is also the Director of the Knowledge Transfer and Startup Support Center (CSK).

In his welcoming speech at the forum, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Đào Thanh Trường, Vice Director of VNU, emphasized the pioneering role of IFI in organizing and developing the International Franconomics Forum. Launched in 2019, Franconomics has become a prestigious brand not only for IFI and VNU but also for the Francophone community. According to Vice Director, Đào Thanh Trường, over the past half-decade, the forum has provided numerous opportunities for connection among scientists, experts, and businesses, while also opening doors for international cooperation and innovation. In 2024, with the theme "Renewable Energy: Scenarios for a Green Future," the event focuses on discussions and solutions related to clean energy and green growth, which are particularly significant as energy transition becomes a global priority. Prof. Trường believes that with the participation of international partners and leading experts, Franconomics - 2024 will continue to contribute valuable information and knowledge and create practical solutions, not only to help Vietnam achieve its sustainable development goals but also to support the international community in promoting energy transition and environmental protection.

On behalf of the Representative of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) in Asia-Pacific, Ms. Adjara Diouf, Project Coordinator of the “Promoting Sustainable Tourism” initiative, commended IFI's contributions in co-organizing the Franconomics Forum with OIF over the past five years. She affirmed that Franconomics has become a traditional event, attracting the participation of experts, scientists, policymakers, and businesses from various fields to discuss urgent issues related to sustainable development, with a particular focus on renewable energy. Furthermore, Ms. Diouf emphasized the significance of the theme "Renewable Energy: Scenarios for a Green Future" for Franconomics 2024, highlighting its relevance to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.

The OIF representative also noted that the organization has implemented several programs to support countries in developing renewable energy strategies and policies, as well as enhancing energy efficiency. In addition, sustainable tourism is another area of special interest for OIF through projects such as "Destination Eco-Talents." This project focuses on establishing multifunctional centers in various countries, including Vietnam, to raise awareness, provide training, and develop capacities for local communities. OIF believes that sustainable tourism will help drive economic development, create jobs for youth and women, and conserve natural resources.

Continuing the program, Mr. Olivier Brochet, the French Ambassador to Vietnam, affirmed the strong cooperative relationship between the two countries, particularly following the recent official visit of General Secretary and President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, To Lam, to France. Mr. Brochet stated that France is committed to becoming a strategic partner, supporting Vietnam in its energy transition and the development of renewable energy. The Ambassador highlighted specific initiatives, such as the multilateral cooperation mechanism "Partnership for a Just Energy Transition (JETP)," which includes a funding allocation of €500 million to assist Vietnam in achieving its carbon neutrality goals and phasing out fossil fuel use. Furthermore, cooperation activities between French and Vietnamese businesses in the clean energy sector are also contributing to sustainable growth for both nations. Finally, Mr. Olivier Brochet emphasized that the Franconomics Forum 2024, hosted by IFI, serves as a bridge for in-depth discussions on renewable energy and sustainable development, thereby contributing to the promotion of international cooperation in this field.

Mr. Laurent El Ghaoui, Scientific Director of the Environmental Intelligence Center (CEI) at VinUni, presented the university's vision of becoming a leading institution in education, research, and innovation, contributing to the development of human resources and sustainable solutions for societal challenges. In this regard, CEI plays a crucial role in addressing environmental issues through three main research themes: environmental monitoring, smart cities, and materials exploration based on artificial intelligence. At Franconomics 2024, Mr. El Ghaoui also highlighted the importance of renewable energy, sustainable development, and green growth. He encouraged the younger generation to take the lead in sustainable initiatives, particularly through competitions such as ÉCOJEUNES 2024.

In his speech, Mr. Manuel Jobert, Deputy Director for International Relations and Francophonie at Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University and Director of the International Francophone Institute (2IF), shared Lyon 3's commitment to green transition and sustainable development. Specifically, Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University has established an Ecological Transition School to train a new generation of students with the knowledge and skills to address the challenges of green growth. Furthermore, the curriculum regularly integrates environmental issues to equip all students with competencies in sustainable development. Mr. Jobert also highlighted the important role of the Franconomics Forum in promoting international cooperation on renewable energy and social responsibility. This event not only connects experts and researchers but also creates a platform for developing practical solutions for a sustainable future.

Mr. Conan Hervé, Director of the French Development Agency (AFD) in Vietnam, highlighted the serious state of human-induced climate change. He cited the recent Yagi storm in Northern Vietnam, which left devastating consequences, as evidence of the negative impacts of extreme weather. In light of these challenges, Mr. Hervé affirmed that every country has a responsibility to reduce carbon emissions and develop renewable energy sources to protect future generations. In Vietnam, AFD has implemented various programs to support the development of renewable energy, including hydropower, wind power, and solar energy, contributing to Vietnam's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

From France, Mr. Nicolas Maïnetti, Director of the Francophone University Organization (AUF) for the Asia-Pacific region, praised the theme of this year's Franconomics. According to Mr. Maïnetti, renewable energy is a “hot” topic in the context of increasingly severe climate change worldwide. The IPCC report has clearly indicated the link between climate change and fossil fuel use; therefore, the processes of decarbonization and green transition are urgent tasks that require the participation of all stakeholders, from the business community to universities. The Director of AUF for the Asia-Pacific region was also particularly impressed with the “ÉCOJEUNES 2024” competition, which encourages the younger generation to contribute to sustainable solutions for the future. Lastly, he expressed hope that the international Franconomics Forum would continue to grow and achieve new milestones, contributing to sustainable development globally.

Dr. Phùng Danh Thắng, Director of the International Francophone Institute, Vietnam National University, Hanoi particularly emphasized the importance of this year's Franconomics theme, which revolves around renewable energy and sustainable development. He stated that focusing on green energy scenarios not only aligns with global development trends but also plays a significant role in achieving sustainable development goals both in Vietnam and internationally. Furthermore, the Director affirmed that the International Franconomics Forum 2024 continues to serve as a platform connecting businesses, universities, and governments, fostering cooperation between countries in the North-South and South-South regions. This year's event has attracted a large participation from international organizations, universities, and experts, with two main focuses: renewable energy and sustainable tourism. Notably, the ÉCOJEUNES 2024 competition, aimed at young people, represents a new initiative to encourage the younger generation to engage in environmental protection and strive for a green future. In addition, Dr. Phùng Danh Thắng highlighted the role of the International Francophone Institute (IFI) in training and developing international human resources. With master's and bachelor's programs, IFI has been attracting a significant number of international students from over 20 countries. The expansion of new programs such as Digital Business and Digital Communication demonstrates IFI's commitment to pioneering internationalization and multidisciplinary development.

After the opening remarks, the plenary session of the Forum featured presentations from various distinguished speakers. Mr. Pierre Du Ville, Head of the Wallonie-Bruxelles Delegation in Vietnam and Chair of the Group of Francophone Embassies, Delegations, and Agencies in Hanoi (GADIF), spoke on "Energy Policy in the Wallonie-Bruxelles Region (Belgium) and Lessons for Vietnam." Following him, Mr. David Falcon Adasme, Director of Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) at VinFast, presented on "Green Transition at Vingroup." Mr. Arnaud Dubrac, a Renewable Energy Expert at Expertise France, the French development agency in Vietnam, shared his insights on energy transitions. Additionally, a representative from the Vietnam Electricity Group, serving as Secretary in charge of the European Energy Transition Program, addressed the theme "Global Development of Renewable Energy and Promoting International Cooperation in Sustainable Development." These presentations aimed to share valuable experiences and strategies in the realm of renewable energy and sustainability, fostering dialogue and collaboration among the participants.

Following the plenary session, three parallel spaces were held, including two thematic discussion areas and the final round of the "ÉCOJEUNES 2024 - Youth Commitment for a Green Future" competition. Participants included scholars, experts, and students from various countries, attending both in-person and online via Zoom.

Space 1, titled "Renewable Energy, Green Transition, and Sustainable Development," was chaired by Associate Professor Phạm Hoàng Lương, a senior lecturer in Energy Technology and Policy and former Vice-Rector of Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), along with Dr. Nguyễn Thế Vĩnh, a lecturer in Energy Science at VNU-IFI. This session featured prominent speakers such as Mr. Arnaud Dubrac, a Renewable Energy Expert at Expertise France, the French development agency in Vietnam, and Secretary in charge of the European Energy Transition Program at the Vietnam Electricity Group; Mr. Phan Bá Đức, a Consultant on Digital Transformation and Sustainable Development at FPT Digital; Dr. Bùi Thị Thanh Hương, an Environmental Education lecturer at the School of Interdisciplinary Studies and Arts, VNU; and Master’s Candidate Hoàng Văn Hiệp, a Geothermal Renewable Energy Expert from the same institution. This space aimed to foster discussions on innovative approaches to renewable energy and sustainable development strategies.

Space 2, titled "Renewable Energy, Green Growth, and Sustainable Tourism," was chaired by Dr. Đặng Hồng Khanh, a lecturer in Political Science and Deputy Director for Research at the International Francophone Institute (2IF) - Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University, and Dr. Phí Thị Linh Giang, an Assistant Professor and lecturer specializing in Tourism & Entrepreneurship at VinUni. This session included notable speakers such as Mr. Ibrahima Dabo, Project Coordinator at the International Organization of Francophonie (OIF); Associate Professor Pham Hong Long, Head of the Tourism Department at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi; Ms. Nathalie Patrat, Executive Director of the ESG Act program at the School of Sustainable Development Management in France; Dr. Thierry Vincent, Director of the MBA program on Energy Transition at DeVinci Executive Education, France; and Mr. Vũ Văn Tuyên, CEO of Travelogy Vietnam. This space aimed to explore the intersection of renewable energy, green growth, and sustainable tourism, fostering discussions on innovative strategies to enhance the synergy between these vital sectors for a sustainable future.

Space 3 of Franconomics 2024 was filled with excitement as it showcased the top five outstanding projects from the “ÉCOJEUNES 2024 - Youth Committed to a Green Future” competition. After enthusiastic presentations, followed by a Q&A session and feedback from the judges, the competition crowned the winning project, "Motioncharge," presented by the team of students from VinUni, including Tô Đông Anh Khoa, Dương Tuấn Mạnh, Đàm Thị Xuân Giao, Nguyễn Quỳnh Lam, and Phạm Xuân Thanh. This project exemplified the strong commitment of youth to environmental protection and green growth. The second prize went to Nguyễn Việt Anh, Nguyễn Thành Dương, Nguyễn Đức Lam, Đặng Kiến Quốc, and Nguyễn Thị Linh Trang from Quang Minh High School for their project titled “Research and Use of Silver Nanoparticles Generated from Old Casuarina Leaves to Preserve Colors with Natural Materials.” Following them, three projects received third place: "A Little Vietnam - Responsible Tourism Combined with Tree Planting" from the team of Tào Vân Anh, Nguyễn Thị Yến Nhi, and Đặng Lê Trà My from the National Economics University; "The Green Journey of Minh" from the team of Phạm Ngọc Quý, Ngô Thị Thơm, Vũ Thị Thúy Vân, Nguyễn Thị Thanh Thúy, and Lục Bảo Khánh from the International Francophone Institute, Vietnam National University, Hanoi; and “Utilizing Agricultural By-products - From Rice Husk to Straws: A Journey Towards Sustainability” from Đỗ Hà Lan, Nguyễn Duy Tú, and Trần Thị Thanh Hương from the University of Natural Sciences, Vietnam National University, Hanoi. Additionally, the organizing committee awarded five encouragement prizes and five potential prizes to the remaining projects in the top 15.

Franconomics 2024 took place in a lively atmosphere, providing valuable information and experiences about renewable energy. After five successful years, this event continues to open new opportunities, concluding successfully on the afternoon of October 16, 2024, at VinUni University.

Some images from the Forum: