On the afternoon of August 15, 2025, in an atmosphere of joy and solemnity, the opening ceremony of the 25th International Mathematics Competition – VIMC 2025 took place at Vietnam-Korea University of Information and Communication Technology (VKU), the University of Danang. This is a special event, marking the first time Da Nang City – Vietnam hosts one of the most prestigious and large-scale mathematics competitions in the world for middle school students. With the theme “VIMC 2025 – Da Nang, Vietnam: Connecting Minds, Spreading Friendship, Conquering Mathematics,” the competition is not only an academic playground but also an opportunity for cultural exchange, connecting friends from all over the world and promoting the dynamic, livable coastal city of Da Nang.

Overview of the Opening Ceremony of the 2025 International Mathematics Competition – VIMC 2025

The opening ceremony was attended by Mr. Tran Anh Tuan – Vice Chairman of Da Nang City People’s Committee; Mrs. Le Thi Bich Thuan – Director of Da Nang Department of Education and Training, Head of the Organizing Committee; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Huynh Cong Phap, Co-Chair of the Organizing Committee; Prof. Wen-Hsien Sun – Chairman of the International Mathematics Committee (IMC); Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Manh Toan – Vice Rector of Da Nang University, along with representatives from various departments, universities in the region, team leaders, teachers, parents, and nearly 600 contestants from over 30 countries and territories. The presence of high-ranking leaders, educators, scholars, and international guests affirmed the importance of VIMC 2025 and Da Nang’s growing reputation on the global education map.
The International Mathematics Competition (IMC) is an annual academic event that brings together young mathematical talents from all continents. After 24 editions in countries like Bulgaria, South Korea, Thailand, China, South Africa, Indonesia, Singapore, and most recently Malaysia (2024), IMC has become one of the largest and most prestigious mathematics arenas for middle school students. For the 25th edition, Vietnam is honored to be the host country, with Da Nang City as the venue and VKU chosen as the main organizer.

The Vietnamese team, as the host team of IMC 2025

VIMC 2025 welcomes 553 contestants, 212 teachers, 142 parents, and 13 members of the International IMC Committee. Over six days (August 14-19, 2025), contestants will undergo individual and team competitions at two levels: Keystage II and Keystage III, along with supporting activities such as Puzzle Challenge, cultural exchanges, sightseeing, and team-building. This is an opportunity for young talents to demonstrate their logical thinking, creativity, and teamwork spirit, while expanding their global perspective through multicultural exchange.

Representatives from the Da Nang City People’s Committee are presenting commemorative medals to the co-organizing units: Department of Education and Training, VKU and IEG

As a public university under the University of Danang, VKU has established its pioneering position in training and research in digital technology and digital economy, while successfully organizing many large-scale academic events at both national and international levels. Being selected as the venue for VIMC 2025 is a clear testament to the school’s prestige, capability, and exceptional facilities. To meet the demands of such a large-scale international competition, VKU mobilized all available resources, arranged 14 internationally-standardized exam rooms, ensuring proper lighting, space, and equipment; dormitory systems with nearly 700 comfortable beds for students and teachers; private workspaces for the International IMC Committee; modern spaces for the opening and closing ceremonies; and clean, safe food areas with menus catering to all needs, including special Halal requirements for Muslim contestants; secure examination and grading rooms; and conference halls and lounges that meet international event standards.

Security, healthcare, and logistics were strictly implemented in coordination with relevant authorities, ensuring a safe and effective competition. Over 30 VKU lecturers directly participated in supervising and grading the exams, ensuring seriousness, transparency, and objectivity. Nearly 100 VKU student volunteers, trained in skills and foreign languages, were ready to assist 29 international delegations and the Vietnamese delegation throughout the event, contributing to VKU’s image as a friendly and professional institution.

The opening ceremony space at VKU was meticulously prepared, with sound, lighting, and stage decorations reflecting the theme of “Connecting Minds – Spreading Friendship – Conquering Mathematics.” The highlight of the program was the hosting by a professional female MC with a confident demeanor and engaging language, connecting the content flow and spreading emotions to the delegates, contestants, and the audience. The cultural performances, rich in Vietnamese culture and the youthful vibe of Da Nang, created a lively atmosphere and left a profound impression on international friends. Applause echoed as delegations were introduced, showcasing the spirit of unity and friendship across borders.

Mr. Tran Anh Tuan – Vice Chairman of the Da Nang City People’s Committee, is giving a congratulatory speech

Mrs. Le Thi Bich Thuan – Director of the Da Nang Department of Education and Training, Head of the Organizing Committee, is delivering the opening speech

Prof. Wen-Hsien Sun – Chairman of the International IMC Committee is giving a speech

Mr. Wasan Sutthawart – Director of the Research and Development Program, Ministry of Education, Kingdom of Thailand

At the ceremony, the city leaders and IMC Committee members praised VKU’s professional and meticulous preparation, from the infrastructure to logistics organization. VKU’s role as the central organizer demonstrated not only its ability to run major academic events but also affirmed its position in the international education network.

The Organizing Committee presented commemorative medals to 30 participating delegations

VIMC 2025 at VKU is not merely a mathematics competition, but a testament to the integration capacity and organizational abilities of a Vietnamese university in hosting international events. It also provides an opportunity to promote VKU’s image as a modern, creative university and a hub of knowledge and aspiration, ready to connect with the world to bring learning opportunities and experiences to the younger generation.

With VIMC 2025, Da Nang City once again affirms its image as a leading center of education, tourism, and services, dynamic and integrated. Contestants, teachers, and parents not only participate in the competition but also explore the beauty of the coastal city, experience its culture, cuisine, and the hospitality of its people. This is the message the Organizing Committee wishes to convey to international friends: Da Nang – a livable city, ready to welcome and connect with the world.

The Organizing Committee is presenting commemorative medals to the sponsoring units

With meticulous preparation, close coordination between various departments, and especially VKU’s central role, VIMC 2025 is expected to be a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on every participant. From VKU, intellectual connections will spread, friendships will be nurtured, and the love for mathematics will continue to inspire the younger generation worldwide.

Center for Learning Resource and Communication

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