VinFuture: A 5-year journey honoring science for the benefit of humanity.
Looking back over the past five years, the VinFuture Award has transformed from a Vietnamese initiative to an international one, honoring groundbreaking technologies that are changing people's lives.
Established with the mission of honoring scientific and technological achievements that have a significant impact on life, the VinFuture Award has affirmed its position on the global science map after 5 years of operation. From Vietnam, the award has spread inspiration for innovation, honoring inventions that bring practical benefits to billions of people around the world.
A different mission from Vietnam
Amidst numerous prestigious science awards, VinFuture distinguishes itself by focusing on achievements with the potential to change lives. Instead of simply honoring academic research, the award targets technologies that address pressing human needs in fields such as health, energy, environment, and agriculture.
Professor Kostya S. Novoselov, a member of the Award Council, commented: "The VinFuture Award truly stands out with its unique concept: it will be awarded to inventions that have changed and revolutionized the way we live. This is a very special idea."
The VinFuture Foundation was established on December 20, 2020, with an initial committed budget of VND 2 trillion (equivalent to USD 100 million at that time). The core activity of the Foundation is awarding annual prizes, in addition to providing funding and connecting the scientific community.
Global landmarks and world-changing projects.
Over five seasons, VinFuture has received more than 6,000 nominations from nearly 15,000 scientists in over 90 countries and territories. The honored works have had a profound impact globally.
Advances in medicine and healthcare
One of the most significant milestones was the recognition of mRNA vaccine technology, a crucial foundation in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The inaugural VinFuture Main Award was presented to Professor Katalin Karikó and Dr. Drew Weissman, pioneers in this technology.
Other groundbreaking medical technologies, such as CAR-T therapy for cancer, the discovery of the GLP-1 hormone to treat diabetes and obesity, and the single-dose oral cholera vaccine, have also been honored, contributing to saving millions of lives.
Breakthroughs in agriculture and the environment
In the agricultural sector, VinFuture has recognized flood-resistant rice varieties such as Sub1A and high-yield varieties like IR36 and IR64, helping to ensure food security for millions of farmers. In addition, its low-cost arsenic-contaminated water filtration technology has also been praised, providing clean water to many impoverished communities.
Foundation for Sustainable Energy
VinFuture also honored clean energy technologies, notably PERC solar cells, which currently hold 60% of the global market share, and lithium-ion batteries, the foundation for the development of electric vehicles. Professor Rachid Yazami, recipient of the VinFuture 2023 Main Award, shared: "It takes time for an invention to create a real impact on society and benefit all of humanity."
Knowledge ecosystem and source of inspiration
In addition to awarding prizes, VinFuture also builds a knowledge ecosystem through a series of scientific events. The "VinFuture Science and Technology Week" connected over 8,000 participants with 26 leading speakers from around the world. The InnovaTalk series of seminars and the InnovaConnect initiative also contribute to bringing international scientists closer to the Vietnamese scientific community.
Dr. Le Thai Ha, Executive Director of the VinFuture Foundation, said: "VinFuture is not just an award, but a journey for science to become the common language of humanity, transcending all boundaries."
Affirming our position on the world scientific map
Led by an Awards Council comprised of renowned scientists such as Professor Sir Richard Henry Friend, VinFuture has quickly built its own reputation and brand. Thousands of international publications have acknowledged the award's role in inspiring and putting Vietnam on the world scientific map.
Professor Richard Henry Friend, Chairman of the Awards Committee, emphasized: "Five years ago, we embarked on a great journey... I think we have built a unique and distinctive brand image." With the achievements already made, VinFuture is continuing its journey of connecting science and innovation for a better future for humanity.
