‘VinFuture promotes a fair scientific landscape’

One year after being honored on the stage of VinFuture, Professor Gurdev Singh Khush, co-owner of the 2023 VinFuture Special Award for scientists from developing countries, continues to contribute to science with his contributions to science. Support for young people in rice research.

On the occasion of the upcoming VinFuture 2024 awards ceremony, he shared about the award’s influence in promoting scientific research and solving global challenges.

– After one year of being honored at VinFuture, what impressed you the most?

– I am honored to receive this award because this is the first major science award awarded by a developing country. Most other prestigious awards originate from developed countries. I believe the VinFuture Awards will play an important role in raising global awareness of today’s pressing issues.

The award also strengthens my commitment to enhancing world food security. This is the challenge I have dedicated my career to solving. Recognition from VinFuture gives me meaningful resources and renewed vitality to continue pursuing solutions to this urgent global problem.

– How do you feel when you stand on the same stage to receive the VinFuture 2023 Special Award with your long-time colleague – Professor Vo Tong Xuan?

– Meeting again and standing next to Professor Xuan to receive the joint award was a special moment. We have cooperated for 40 years, contributing significantly to food security by developing disease- and insect-resistant rice varieties. Our joint work addresses critical food security needs in Vietnam and around the world. It was an honor and a privilege to work with Mr. Xuan. I was very sad when I heard that Professor Xuan passed away. His passing is a great loss to the scientific community and me personally.

Our partnership transcends many differences, demonstrating the power of international cooperation. This is important for solving global challenges.

– How do you evaluate VinFuture’s role in promoting a collaborative scientific innovation environment, especially in narrowing the gap between developed and developing countries?

– Narrowing the scientific development gap between developed and developing countries is the central goal of the VinFuture Award. By recognizing and honoring international collaborations, the prize encourages researchers from many different countries and backgrounds to collaborate, promoting a global scientific community.

In particular, VinFuture’s commitment and contribution is even clearer when it reserves an award for scientists in developing countries. This is an important effort to help promote an equitable scientific landscape.

– According to Professor, what are VinFuture’s strengths?

– Through awards and activities, VinFuture attracts the attention of the global scientific community to the urgent issues facing them. By honoring outstanding research works in important fields, VinFuture contributes to affirming value and promoting the development of breakthrough solutions. Looking back at last year’s awards, I am impressed that VinFuture selected key research areas of great significance to the world community.

As the world learns more about VinFuture, there will be more scientists dedicated to this field, joining hands to solve common challenges of humanity.

– What are your plans for the near future??

– At the age of 90, I retired after spending more than 60 years in science. Even though I no longer lead research projects, I still make time to mentor and support young scientists.

Nurturing the next generation of scientists is essential to continue solving global challenges. To achieve that goal, I attend seminars and discussions with them, learn about the latest research methods, and share my own experiences.

I believe research is the key to opening new doors of knowledge, bringing many great advances to humanity. I will continue to devote myself to research if possible.