Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh presents the 2024 Kovalevskaia Award to the two female scientists. (Photo: VGP)
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Minh Tan from Hanoi University of Science and Technology, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dang Thi My Dung from Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City have been honoured with the 2024 Kovalevskaia Award for their outstanding achievements in scientific research.
The award ceremony took place in Hanoi on March 8 that coincides with International Women’s Day.
Assoc. Prof. Nguyan Minh Tan is the Director of the Institute for Research and Application of Natural Compounds and a lecturer at the School of Chemical and Life Sciences, Hanoi University of Science and Technology.
Assoc. Prof. Dang Thi My Dung is the Deputy Director of the Institute for Nanotechnology at Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City.
Both scientists were recognized for their significant contributions to research and practical applications, which have driven advancements in their respective fields. Many of their research projects have been successfully transferred to businesses, generating billions of VND in economic value.
Speaking after receiving the award, Assoc. Prof. Nguyan Minh Tan expressed her belief that the Kovalevskaia Award would continue to inspire female scientists in their research journey. She encouraged young researchers, saying:
“Don't let any limits hold back your aspirations. Every failed experiment today is a stepping stone to the tower of success tomorrow,” she stressed.
Named after the renowned Russian mathematician Sophia Kovalevskaia (1850-1891), the Kovalevskaia Award honours outstanding female scientists for their contributions to scientific research.
Since its establishment, the award has affirmed its prestige and influence, becoming a source of encouragement and motivation for female scientists in Vietnam. It has inspired many women to confidently pursue research, particularly in natural sciences.
Over the past 40 years (1985-2025), the Kovalevskaia Award has been presented to 22 collectives and 57 individuals who have made outstanding contributions to scientific research and technological applications, bringing significant benefits to various aspects of socio-economic life.
Moving forward, the Vietnam Women's Union aims to expand the award’s impact, encourage women's engagement in scientific research, and promote the practical application of scientific advancements, helping to reaffirm the role and potential of women in various fields.
