Hanoi celebrates nine centuries of Vietnam's premier ancient academy

Quoc Tu Giam, founded in 1076 under the reign of King Ly Nhan Tong, stands as one of Asia's oldest universities and a cornerstone of Vietnamese education. The academy served as the primary institution for training scholar-officials and administering imperial examinations, establishing standards that would influence Vietnamese learning for centuries. Its legacy extends beyond academia, embodying the nation's commitment to intellectual advancement and cultural preservation.

To mark the milestone anniversary, Hanoi is hosting a series of cultural events that underscore the institution's historical importance. The celebrations reflect growing recognition of Quoc Tu Giam's role in shaping Vietnamese civilization and its continued relevance to national identity. The academy, formally known as Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam, remains a symbol of Vietnam's intellectual heritage.

International collaboration has become central to preserving and promoting the academy's legacy. Cooperation between Hanoi and Beijing seeks to strengthen ties between the two nations' cultural institutions, while a Paris-based programme works to disseminate knowledge of Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam's historical values to wider audiences. These partnerships demonstrate the institution's significance beyond Vietnam's borders.

In a bid to engage contemporary audiences, organizers have launched digital heritage experiences at the site, making the academy's rich history accessible through modern technology. These initiatives bridge centuries of tradition with present-day engagement, ensuring that future generations understand Quoc Tu Giam's formative influence on Vietnamese education, governance, and culture.