“If I have the opportunity, I will definitely return to Vietnam to conduct research, study, or teach. Vietnam has left a very special mark on me,” shared Théo Duterte–Richardot, a French intern at the Information Technology Institute, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, after his 4-month internship.
International Experience in an Academic Environment in Vietnam
As a third-year Computer Science student at the Institute of Technology, Hauts-de-France Polytechnic University (France), Théo has always carried a strong passion for technology and application software development. Sharing about his reason for choosing to do an internship in Vietnam, Théo said: “I was given the opportunity to intern abroad. When I learned about the Information Technology Institute, VNU, I realized this was a valuable chance to explore a new education system, gain exposure to a professional research environment, and broaden my international perspective – both technically and culturally.”
Mastering IoT Technology and Cloud Computing Systems
Théo’s internship project focused on developing a website interface and a mobile application to visualize data and secure information collected from low-power IoT sensors, using a system-on-chip platform for secure IoT devices developed by the Information Technology Institute. He built the system by integrating REST APIs, developing the interface with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP, and creating a mobile application in Kotlin combined with WebView to display content from the web system. In addition, Théo utilized PostgreSQL to effectively and securely store, manage, and process server-side data.
“The most interesting part is that this was my first time working in depth with a real secure and low-power IoT system, as well as cloud platforms. I learned how to handle real-time data – even when there were connection interruptions or unstable data. Moreover, processing secure data from low-power IoT sensors on a system-on-chip platform for secure IoT devices was also a real challenge for me. The internship project was demanding but also an invaluable experience,” Théo shared.
A Friendly Academic Environment Focused on Personal Development
Théo especially appreciated the working environment at the Institute: “The atmosphere was very focused, but also very relaxed. I had the freedom to organize my work, and I always received support from the professors whenever I faced technical difficulties.”
Working in the research laboratory helped Théo improve his ability to work independently, develop critical thinking, and gain deeper access to new technologies. This also laid an important foundation for his future goal of becoming a Computer Science lecturer.
Vietnam through the Eyes of an International Intern: Welcoming – Dynamic – Full of Potential
For Théo, Vietnam was not only an academic destination but also a place that left him with unforgettable memories of its people, culture, and cuisine: “I really enjoyed Vietnamese food – from phở and bánh mì to bún chả. Eating on the sidewalk was my first time, but it was such an exciting experience. Vietnamese people are extremely friendly. Sometimes while I was walking, strangers would start a conversation just to practice English – it was surprising, but also very warm,” Théo shared.
Théo believes that Vietnam holds great potential in developing IoT technology and cloud computing, thanks to its young and eager-to-learn workforce as well as its dynamic research system. “I witnessed the seriousness and creativity in the laboratories at VNU. If this development continues, Vietnam can absolutely become a powerful technology hub in the region, as well as in the world.”
Advice for International Students: “Just come and experience it”. Théo did not hesitate to encourage international students to choose VNU as their academic destination: “Be open-minded, willing to learn, and don’t be afraid to try new things. You will gain a lot – not only in terms of technology but also about yourself.”
Promoting International Collaboration – Affirming the Position of a Global University
Théo’s case is one among many examples demonstrating the effectiveness of VNU’s strategy in internationalizing education and strengthening research cooperation. With its diverse academic environment, modern research ecosystem, and high-quality faculty, VNU’s member institutions are increasingly becoming attractive destinations for international students, lecturers, and scientists.
The Information Technology Institute, VNU will continue to expand internship programs and academic exchanges, aiming to become a leading regional center for research and training in digital technology, data, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation.
Founded in 2001, the Information Technology Institute, VNU is a research and training unit under Vietnam National University, Hanoi. The Institute’s mission is to train PhD students, participate in undergraduate and postgraduate training in IT, conduct research, transfer technology, and provide IT and communication consulting services to support socio-economic development.
Currently, the Institute has three specialized research centers: Applied Artificial Intelligence, Information Security and Safety, and Microchip Design and Applications. Its main research directions include AI, data science, IoT, information security, image/video processing, microchip design, blockchain, embedded systems, virtual/augmented reality, and more.
The Institute is also responsible for PhD training in Information Technology, organizing advanced training programs, teaching new technology skills, and maintaining a strong collaboration network with domestic and international partners (USA, Japan, South Korea, France, Germany, etc.).
In addition to research and training, the Institute also advises VNU on IT, provides consulting services, designs and implements technology solutions, develops application products, and promotes digital knowledge dissemination.
For more information about international cooperation programs, please contact:
Website: https://iti.vnu.edu.vn
Email: iti@vnu.edu.vn
Source: Vietnam National University, Hanoi
