The beginning of a new journey for these "student scientists"...

Diving into the endeavor with determination, student Trinh Minh Thuan shared his thoughts on the initial days of the journey: "Selecting and delving into a research topic is the biggest challenge for students in research work. Our group was no exception; we spent a considerable amount of time on this initial step. However, with the guidance of Professor Thinh, our research advisor, we were able to closely follow and gradually conquer the subject."

 

In January 2023, the research team traveled from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Nai province. They participated in a workshop at the Dong Nai Biosphere Reserve, visited and collaborated with Trong Duc Cocoa Co., Ltd., conducted a survey involving 285 customers in Dong Nai province and Ho Chi Minh City, and subsequently filtered down the data to 203 relevant responses for analysis.

 

 

 

...There's always the guidance of our teachers and the support of the University throughout the research process!

To carry out their project, the research group received support from a state-level research topic managed by the Institute of Agriculture Planning and Design. This research project covered all expenses for flights, transportation, accommodation, and interviews for the students. According to the perspective of Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen An Thinh, as well as the student research development strategy of the University of Economics and Business - Vietnam National University, seeking funding for student scientific research projects plays a crucial role. It encourages student participation without requiring them to bear the expenses during the research process.

The student research group happily shared that they were initially concerned about the travel and living costs due to the considerable distance of the survey location. However, the University and Professor Thinh stood by their side, called for sponsorship, and provided assistance throughout the data collection process. This allowed the group to focus on their research work with joy. Notably, thanks to this research project, some members of the group experienced their first-ever flight!

"A very joyful memory during the research process is that Professor Thinh not only helped us secure funding for the research but also accompanied us through each stage of completing the project. He even cared about the simplest things. He gave each of us a box of cocoa powder mix - the product we were studying," Phuong Mai shared with a smile.

 

It was our first experience in research, and we can admit that we started with limited knowledge. However, over the course of a year, we gained extensive knowledge, interacted with experienced seniors, professors, and teachers who guided us through various challenges. This exposure transformed our research journey into a memorable experience, enriching us with valuable insights and hands-on skills that significantly contributed to our personal growth.

A "Promising Start" for these "Student Scientists"

The research conducted by the team from the Department of Economic Development has yielded significant outcomes. The study delved into the willingness of local residents to pay for cocoa products labeled with three different eco-labels, all while identifying the underlying factors shaping this willingness. The team also provided suggestions for cocoa businesses in Dong Nai to adopt level 2 eco-labels (eco-labels endorsed by Biosphere Reserve management) and to amplify public awareness of international certifications, possibly paving the way for the adoption of level 3 eco-labels (eco-labels with international certifications) in the future.

In evaluating the students' contributions, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen An Thinh highlighted: "Economic Development students possess two remarkable qualities: strong teamwork and the ability to plan and execute tasks effectively. Throughout the research journey, the team took the initiative to manage and oversee the entire research process, both in the classroom and the field. My role was to guide and accompany them. Today's achievements truly reflect their diligent efforts."

 

"When we received the notification of the results, it was truly an unbelievable feeling! Afterwards, a sense of pride and happiness overwhelmed us, as if we had achieved an incredibly challenging goal we once dreamed of. It's truly a massive source of motivation for us to continue our passion for research in the future!" - Student Do Thi Ngoc Tram shared.

 

With their dedicated efforts and enthusiasm in every research task, the team from the Department of Economic Development, both students and their mentor, have achieved well-deserved results. Student research not only deepens their understanding of their field of study but also provides opportunities to learn, enhance teamwork skills, develop logical thinking, analytical abilities, and problem-solving skills. Moreover, having a research paper published in an international journal will bolster students' resumes, making a favorable impression on potential employers.