Professor Richard Henry: Vietnamese people are completely capable of doing great things.

Professor Richard Henry Friend - Chairman of the VinFuture Prize Council shared that from a bold idea 5 years ago, VinFuture has become a symbol of belief in the power of science to serve humanity. For him, accompanying VinFuture is not only a mission, but also an inspiration to join colleagues around the world in searching for and honoring works that can change people's lives.

Ahead of the upcoming 5th VinFuture Prize, Professor Richard Henry Friend shared his thoughts on Vietnam's most prestigious science award.

VinFuture is free, bold and always ahead of its time.

- As someone who has directly witnessed VinFuture's 5-year journey, how do you evaluate the current position of the Award?

Professor Richard Henry Friend: The feedback I have received from colleagues has been very positive. Initially, many people were skeptical about whether a young award from Vietnam could reach the world . But now the list of honored scientists says it all.

We have gone through four seasons, and the winner of season 5 will be revealed at the end of this year. I believe that the winners have received recognition and appreciation from the global scientific community.

The VinFuture Prize Council brings together many of the world's leading scientists in different fields, but all aim for the same goal: to honor worthy works that have a positive impact on the lives of millions of people. (Photo: VFP)

- If you had to use one word to describe VinFuture's 5-year journey, what word would you choose?

Professor Richard Henry Friend: Positive! In a developed world, we tend to be pessimistic, focusing too much on what is not good. VinFuture is different - celebrating what is right, encouraging efforts to make the world a better place.

The prize is not limited to any field, such as Chemistry or Physics, but extends to everything that can benefit humanity.

We are free to interpret the founders' vision. At the same time, our criteria are open, allowing us the freedom to explore areas that may later be widely recognized.

I appreciate the spirit of “awarding before other recognition has arrived” as a rare boldness. And that is what keeps VinFuture ahead of the times.

Since its inception, the VinFuture Prize Council has gathered outstanding scientists. What has impressed you the most?

Professor Richard Henry Friend: The most special thing is the spirit of learning. Each member of the Council comes from a different expertise, but all share the same thirst for understanding and appreciation of knowledge.

Every meeting is a journey of discovery. We learn from the nominations and from the process of digging deeper into the nominated works.

The discussions were lively, sometimes contentious. But the goal was the same: to truly understand the impact of the work, so that we could choose fairly and honor the most deserving. We asked each other tough questions, delved into the details, and consensus came naturally.

Vietnamese people are completely capable of doing great things.

- VinFuture was born during the COVID-19 pandemic - a time of great turmoil. In that context, what does the Prize mean to the scientific community and to you personally?

Professor Richard Henry Friend: The pandemic is a wake-up call that the world needs to work together. COVID-19 is global, so the solution must also be global. The birth of VinFuture at that time has a special meaning: to honor efforts to bring positive change to humanity.

The first Grand Prize was later awarded to scientists who would later receive the Nobel Prize for their discovery of mRNA vaccine technology. Their presence in Vietnam in January 2022, despite the pandemic that had virtually shut down the world, was very special. Meeting the man who saved millions of lives in the middle of the pandemic was an unforgettable experience.

The Chairman of the VinFuture Prize Council said that VinFuture brings a positive feeling, encouraging efforts to make the world a better place. (Photo: VFP)

At the award ceremony, I felt like the moment when the whole world came together, spreading hope and opening up new opportunities. And the fact that the moment took place right here in Hanoi, as a symbol representing the whole world, made it even more meaningful.

- In Vietnam specifically, according to the professor, what role is the VinFuture Prize playing?

Professor Richard Henry Friend: I see Vietnam as a proactive country in seizing the opportunities that science and technology bring to society, economy, education and employment. Having the opportunity to meet scientists receiving the VinFuture Prize will be a strong catalyst, inspiring researchers and the young generation of Vietnam to believe in their abilities.

The award week in Hanoi is always a clear proof. We have brought great stories that can change the world to Vietnam. Many lively conversations and discussions took place, attracting many people, not just researchers. That is when science becomes a part of social life.

I also feel a strong desire to make good things happen in Vietnam. I believe that having direct contact with people who have made a difference from around the world will ignite a strong belief that Vietnamese people can absolutely do great things.

Thank you very much, Professor!

Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/gs-richard-henry-nguoi-viet-nam-hoan-toan-co-the-lam-nen-nhung-dieu-lon-lao-post1072975.vnp