Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Thien Nhan presented certificates to 15 students undertaking a master degree in the Vietnam-France Cooperation Programme in Hanoi on December 15.

The ceremony, held at University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH), also saw the attendance of French Ambassador to Vietnam, Jean Noel Poirier.

Addressing the event, Nhan spoke highly of the university’s achievements since its establishment three years ago.

The university has sent close to 100 students to study for their PhD in France, and a further 18 for master degrees.

At present, there are almost 400 undergraduate and postgraduate students at the university.

USTH President Pierre Sebban said 350 students were enrolled on undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the 2012-2013 academic year, doubling the number of the previous school year.

The university has welcomed students from France, Nigeria, Laos, the Philippines and Sri Lanka.

USTH is a public institution, which was established under the 2009 intergovernmental agreement between Vietnam and France.

It is the only university in Vietnam applying the European system of credits and degrees.

Courses are taught in English by experienced international lecturers.-VNA