Brian Jeffrey
Prof. Le Ngoc Thach, previously a lecturer at the HCM City University of Natural Sciences, has influenced countless chemistry students over the years.
Even in retirement, he remains engaged as a visiting lecturer and is known for his contributions to the field, including writing numerous textbooks and reference materials.
His academic journey began at Petrus Ky School, followed by a degree in chemistry at the University of Sciences in 1976. Within three years, he ascended from being an assistant to becoming a full lecturer.
Phung Quan, the head of the administrative division, noted Thach’s popularity among students due to his in-depth knowledge and friendly nature.
In 2017, he established the Le Van Thoi Award, aimed at recognizing outstanding research among students and generously contributed VND1.5 billion to this initiative. He further added VND500 million in 2023. The awards range between VND30-50 million for exemplary theses and dissertations at various academic levels.
Additionally, in 2021, Thach donated one billion dong to the HCM City Chemistry Society to initiate the Le Van Thoi Award for Green Chemistry, which incentivizes projects focused on sustainable practices.
This award supports research in areas such as waste management and pollution reduction, emphasizing adherence to Green Chemistry principles. Quan highlighted Thach’s philanthropic activities, which began in high school with contributions to community projects.
Beyond financial support, Thach has also donated numerous chemistry books to the university’s library and volunteers regularly at local charities, helping students with living expenses and educational needs.
Recently, in response to Typhoon Yagi’s devastating floods in northern Vietnam, he donated one billion dong from his personal savings, originally intended for his retirement years.
Associate Prof. Doan Van Dien, known for establishing a scholarship fund of VND2 billion for underprivileged students, shares a similar commitment to education.
Twenty years ago, he envisioned a scholarship program to aid deserving students and secured his wife’s support for the initiative.
Dien, at 89, sought to ensure that his philanthropic efforts would outlast him by setting aside funds solely for awarding scholarships based on agreed criteria with the university.
The fund, managed entirely by the HCM City University of Agriculture and Forestry, is designed to assist students annually and appreciates the role of teachers in this educational mission.
Dien reflected on his source of funds, attributing it to his hard work. Despite only receiving a VND6 million pension each month, he lives comfortably while providing invaluable support to students in need.
