Inspiring the Next Generation of Aquaculture Professionals
Countries in Southeast Asia (SEA) like Vietnam, face similar problems in modernizing food production and food security. Agriculture, often seen as outdated and lacking opportunities, struggles to attract younger generations. They see farming as an old-fashioned sector not offering much future-oriented opportunities. As a result, the number of farmers is decreasing, and the average farmer is getting older. This does not support the introduction of new technologies or up-to-date production design in farming and in the food production chain.
The agriculture sector in Vietnam needs the young generation to become more involved and shape a future for food production based on principles of sustainability.
Recognizing these challenges, numerous NL alumni and young agri-food professionals in Southeast Asia, are taking the lead to drive change. Together, they aim to inspire young people by sharing success stories and highlighting agriculture as a vibrant, modern sector with significant potential for personal and societal growth.
In this context, Empower Youth4Food, in collaboration with Can Tho University, hosted a talk show “Next Wave: In Conversation with Aquaculture Professionals” bringing together four young professionals who reflected on what motivates them to work in the sector, what their work looks like day-to-day, and how students and fresh graduates help drive innovation toward a sustainable future. The event took place on Friday 14 November in the auditorium of the RLC building on the campus of Can Tho University.
Opening Remark
The event gathered over 60 students from Tra Vinh University, CTU, and Dong Thap Community College. MC Pham Thi Kieu Oanh, Communications Intern at EY4F, opened the event by welcoming all participants. Inspiring opening remarks were delivered by Prof. Dr. Nguyen Hieu Trung, Vice Rector of CTU, and Massimo Lindeman from RVO.
MC Kieu Oanh opened the guest lecture.
Opening remark by Prof. Dr. Nguyen Hieu Trung, Vice Rector of Can Tho University
Opening remark by Mr. Massimo Lindeman from Dutch Enteprise Agency (RVO)
Keynote
Next is a keynote from Prof. Dr. Vu Ngoc Ut, Rector of the College of Aquaculture and Fisheries, who highlighted the vital role of youth in Vietnam’s sustainable aquaculture transition. In his keynote, Professor Ut extended profound gratitude to the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Vietnam, the Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, Nuffic, and Dutch Enterprise Agency for their enduring support. While candidly addressing the industry's current challenges, Prof. Ut painted a picture of a sector ripe with potential. He passionately encouraged students to cultivate their experiences and skills, particularly in foreign languages, to drive innovation and integration for Vietnam's aquaculture. Reaffirming the university’s commitment, he stated that Can Tho University stands ready to collaborate with both international and local organizations to expand horizons for students following this event.
Event moderator: Percy Hien from De Heus Vietnam
The talk show was moderated by Percy Hien, International Product Manager from De Heus Vietnam, who led a discussion on career paths, challenges, and opportunities emerging in the sector.
Le Nguyen Dieu An, Can Tho University alumna and now working as a Diagnostic Laboratory Scientist for PHARMAQ, noted: “Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, offering countless opportunities for young people eager to develop professional, language, and creative skills.”
Challenging conventional career narratives, Phan Thi Hoai Nhi, Sales Manager at Skretting, urged graduates to step out of their comfort zones. “Don't think that studying aquaculture means you cannot work in sales. Working in sales gives me the freedom to communicate, learn from others, and thrive in diverse environments,” she shared. Nhi emphasized that seizing opportunities, especially after graduation, is essential for growth. Self-belief is the key to proving that women can excel in these dynamic roles.
Addressing the practicalities of global integration, Nguyen Minh Thuat, Technical Sales Manager from Kytos Vietnam, recommended students to inquire about international exchange programs. He stressed the importance of early preparation and proactive networking with alumni. As a proud Can Tho University alumnus, Thuat expressed his dedication to supporting the next generation, offering to share insights from his own educational journey and time abroad to help students navigate their own paths.
Rounding out the discussion, Vo Le Thanh Truc, Clinical Laboratory Scientist from PHARMAQ Vietnam reflected on the deeper purpose driving her career: “The opportunity to make a meaningful impact, improving fish welfare, supporting sustainable food production, and advancing disease prevention, is what motivates me.” She added, “Working at the intersection of science and innovation, I find great fulfilment in developing new solutions that protect aquatic health. Remember, every accomplishment starts with the decision to try.”
Changemaker Challenge’s sharing
The event concluded with presentations from future changemakers - EcoShrimp and Earthfeast – who showcased nature-based solutions developed during the Food Systems Innovation Challenge at Wageningen University & Research.
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Team EcoShrimp, represented by Can Tho University Students Hong Minh, Thanh Hieu, Ngoc Dang and Bao Khang and guided by Ms Ho Hong Lien from the School of Economics, is a multidisciplinary team that has developed an Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) model, a nature-based solution designed to transform idle shrimp treatment ponds into productive and sustainable ecosystems. This idea has been developed with the support of Good Tôm, an aquaculture venture modernizing shrimp farming in Vietnam.
Reflecting on this intensive journey, the EcoShrimp team described the challenge as a defining chapter of their university life, enriched by invaluable guidance from mentors and experts. Hong Minh, one of the team’s members, also revealed that the "secret" to their success lays in setting aside personal egos to focus on a common project goal. By harmonizing their diverse backgrounds, leveraging economic strategy, deep aquaculture technical knowledge, digital media and communication skills to convey their vision, they were able to solve problems effectively. For them, it was an unforgettable journey filled with profound lessons on collaboration for both their personal and professioanl development.
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In a similar vein, the EarthFeast team shared how the "Food Systems Innovation Challenge" provided a crucial reality check when working with diverse stakeholders. Moving beyond theoretical assumptions, they gained a genuine understanding of the grassroots mindset by working directly with local farmers. They learned to listen, adapt, and refine their solutions based on the reality on the ground beyond the class. The team expressed sincere gratitude to Agriterra as the case owner, the Empower Youth4Food campaign, Tra Vinh University and the cooperatives for supporting this transformative experience.
EcoShrimp’s presentation
EarthFeast’s presentation
Key message
Key message
The Guest Lecture leaves us with many messages, especially with one key message from young professionals in aquaculture, it is this: all progress begins at the intersection. When we dare to connect – stories, disciplines, communities – we unlock the ideas and actions that move us forward. And in that meeting point, your next wave might just start there.
More information about their innovation can be found: