Creating bridges in the world of science. My conversation with Dr. Pham Anh Tuan took place at 9 p.m. Vietnamese time (3 p.m. Swedish time). Dr. Pham Anh Tuan was about to start the conversation, but when asked about the title of “Vietnamese Young Personality of the Year 2025,” he paused for a long time. Not to list his achievements, but to find the right words to express his feelings. Dr. Pham Anh Tuan stated that this title represents not only a prestigious reward but also a significant recognition of a consistent journey in service of science. What he appreciates most are not the number of scientific publications or personal achievements, but how this award honors the humanistic values that young people bring to the community and society. “When I was nominated and selected, I felt a great honor, but also a greater responsibility,” he said, his voice slowing down as if weighing each word. “I feel that I must live and work more responsibly, contribute more to my country, and spread more positive values.” In a field often less prestigious than the sciences, this award also holds crucial importance as a source of encouragement. As Dr. Pham Anh Tuan highlights, the value of science lies not in external fame, but in the strength of the bonds woven: academic links with Vietnam, international cooperation, and the projection of the image and spirit of the Vietnamese people worldwide. Therefore, he has become more aware of his “mission”: to become a bridge and a source of inspiration for the younger generation, especially those aspiring to a scientific career. The Scholarshipidea.net platform that he founded stems from this desire, helping young Vietnamese to access more international learning opportunities, broaden their horizons, so one day they can return to their country and share their knowledge and experience. For Dr. Pham Anh Tuan, this title is not an end in itself, but a simple step. He acknowledges his past efforts but also urges himself to continue progressing, deepening his knowledge, working with an increased sense of responsibility, and contributing tirelessly to the community and the country. Sharing his research journey with journalists, Dr. Pham Anh Tuan used a striking analogy: building a bridge. According to him, constructing a bridge is a task that does not rush; it takes months, even years, and requires precision, patience, and perseverance. The scientific journey is similar; there is no immediate success, but rather a series of trials and errors, corrections, and revisions until the solution is found.
