Within the framework of the cooperation program between the Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources (VAST) and the Faculty of Biology, Hanoi National University of Education, an academic exchange seminar on biodiversity conservation took place on April 3, 2024 with the topic “One Plan Approach to Conservation; Reverse the Red and topical zoo initiated conservation campaigns dealing with Vietnam’s unique biodiversity". The presenter is Prof. Dr. Thomas Ziegler, Adjunct Professor at the Zoological Institute of Cologne University, Germany; the Coordinator of the Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Projects of the Cologne Zoo in Vietnam.

At the beginning of the seminar, Prof. Thomas Ziegler presented research results and conservation activities for rare and endangered wild animals. He clearly stated the importance of zoos in preserving rare animal species, including breeding these animals, and releasing them into the natural environment. Many conservation research activities are being conducted with many steps, such as studying wildlife populations, assessing the endangered status and developing specific action programs for each species. That is the “One Plan Approach to Conservation” program by the IUCN/SSC Conservation Planning Specialist Group, including breeding programs for invertebrates, fish, amphibians, and reptiles classified as threatened with extinction by IUCN Red List.

Next, Prof. Thomas Ziegler reported 25 hot spots for biodiversity conservation in the world, including Vietnam, where many rare and endangered animal species inhabit. He mentioned “The time is now” for implementing the topical zoo-initiated conservation campaigns dealing with Vietnam’s unique biodiversity. Currently, there is a combination of activities between German zoos and related Insstitutes in Vietnam in preserving a number of species namely Vietnamese crocodile newt, Spotted softshell, Four-eyed turtle, Tiger geckos, Magnolia snail, Nuichua stick insect, Hillstream loach, Mossy frogs, Vietnamese pond turtle, Vietnamese crocodile lizard. Last, he shared a network to highlight and help to conserve the biodiversity hotspot of Vietnam “VIETNAMAMAZING - SAVE NATURE” and he conveyed a very clear message calling for teamwork in preserving Vietnam's species.

The discussion was lively with many opinions discussed. Students are interested in activities they can participate in to contribute to species and biodiversity conservation; the issue of monitoring the effectiveness of releasing animals into the natural environment; difficult problems encountered with the cultures of different countries. The sharing of Prof. Thomas Ziegler as well as other members of the research team is also very clear about the role of educating and propagating biodiversity conservation activities of students, especially pedagogical students. Educational activities can gradually change concepts and beliefs in the use of wild species, thereby changing society's actions in the use of wild species and wildlife products. The government should also take drastic measures to control wildlife farming to ensure a balance between conservation and economic development. Students from class 72K who are studying Ecology Subject were required to submit their reports as an assignment to their lecturer, Dr. Nguyen Van Quyen.

More sharing from Prof. Nguyen Quang Truong, representative of the Vietnam Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources about the construction of the Me Linh biodiversity station with an area of 170 hectares, which both serves conservation activities and can also be a place to organize educational and training activities, with many programs, such as tree planting, presenting ideas in biodiversity conservation. Prof. Nguyen Quang Truong also shared postgraduate scholarship opportunities associated with biodiversity conservation programs, an opportunity for students to participate.

The seminar is really helpful for all participants, especially students from the Faculty of Biology, HNUE, who hope to BE PART OF IT! More information about the Campaign, click the link https://vietnamazing.eu/the-campaign/

Bellows are several photos of the seminar:

Fig. 1. Prof. Thomas Ziegler presents research results and rare animal conservation activities

Fig. 2. Discussion between professors and attendees

Fig. 3. Prof. Nguyen Quang Truong shares scholarship opportunities

Fig. 4. Representative of the Faculty Dean giving a souvenir to Prof. Thomas Ziegler

Fig. 5. Group photo in the main building gate of the Faculty of Biology

Report by Dr. Le Thi Tuoi, Department of Genetics - Biochemistry