On the morning of March 21, 2026, family members, friends, colleagues, and countless students were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Associate Professor, People’s Teacher Nguyen Nhat Khanh at the age of 83. His departure is a profound loss to the Faculty of Physics & Engineering Physics, University of Science, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, as well as to generations of students, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of studying and working alongside him.
He was born in 1943 in Tân An Commune, Cần Đước District, Long An Province. From an early age, he devoted his life to academia and education. Between 1963 and 1969, he pursued his undergraduate studies in Theoretical Physics at Leningrad State University (USSR). He later continued his doctoral studies in Theoretical Physics at Charles University in Prague (Czechoslovakia) from 1976 to 1979, earning his PhD in 1979. In 1991, he was conferred the academic title of Associate Professor in Theoretical Physics.
His professional career was marked by steadfast dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to education. From 1970 to 1975, he taught at Hanoi University of Mining and Geology. From 1975 to 1979, he was a doctoral candidate in Prague. In 1980, he began his long-standing service at Ho Chi Minh City University (later the University of Science, VNU-HCM). Throughout his career, teaching remained his most enduring vocation, with Theoretical Physics as his primary field of expertise.
Beyond being an accomplished educator and scholar, he also undertook significant leadership responsibilities. On January 23, 1995, he was appointed Dean of the Faculty of Physics for the 1994–1998 term, and he continued in this role for the 1998–2002 term starting October 1, 1998. In every position he held, he exemplified the qualities of a dedicated, principled, and responsible educator, always committed to the collective development of the institution.
In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded numerous honors by the Party, the State, and the education sector, including the Second-Class Resistance Medal (1995), the “For the Cause of Education” Medal (1990), Certificates of Merit from the Minister of Education and Training (1997), the Vietnam Education Trade Union (1997), and the Director of Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City (1999, 2000). Notably, in 1998, he was awarded the title of “Meritorious Teacher,” followed by the prestigious title of “People’s Teacher.” He was also a devoted Party member, admitted to the Communist Party of Vietnam on November 2, 1989, and officially recognized on November 2, 1990.
Yet perhaps what remains most deeply in the hearts of his students is not merely his titles or achievements, but the image of a devoted, principled, and inspiring teacher. To many generations of students, he embodied intellect, composure, discipline, and an unwavering dedication to teaching. His lectures not only conveyed knowledge but also instilled a love for science, a rigorous mindset, and a serious commitment to academic pursuit. For his students, his presence forms a cherished part of their university memories; for colleagues, he was a respected companion; and for the Faculty of Physics, his contributions are an invaluable part of its history and development.
His life was one of wholehearted dedication to teaching, scientific research, and the education of generations of students - quietly persistent yet profoundly impactful. Beyond the lecture halls and offices, he left behind a vivid and admirable image in the hearts of colleagues and students: a teacher who loved sports, especially football, and who lived with great enthusiasm. On the football field of the Faculty of Physics, he was always remembered as agile, composed, and full of vitality. Even in his later years, he maintained this passion, becoming an enduring source of inspiration for younger generations - not only in sportsmanship but also in resilience, perseverance, and a joyful outlook on life.
What makes his passing even more poignant is that even in his advanced age, he remained deeply devoted to the Faculty, to his colleagues, to books, and to his profession. Over the past year, he was no longer strong enough to play football. Before the Lunar New Year, he donated his books to the Faculty. In retrospect, this gesture feels like a quiet and heartfelt farewell to the place to which he had devoted his entire life. Just days before his passing, colleagues visited but were unable to meet him as he had been hospitalized. His departure came too suddenly, leaving profound grief in the hearts of all who knew him.
He devoted nearly his entire life to physics and to education. Whether in lecture halls, departments, faculty activities, or in the simplicity of everyday life, he consistently exemplified integrity, dedication, and perseverance. Many of his students have gone on to achieve success across diverse paths in life. In their accomplishments, one can always find the quiet imprint of a teacher who devoted himself to imparting knowledge, nurturing character, and inspiring a love for science, profession, and human responsibility.
Today, in the face of this immense loss, colleagues, students, and generations of alumni bow their heads in deep respect to bid him farewell. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for his profound lectures, his devotion to science and education, his exemplary character, his quiet support for countless students, and the simple yet unforgettable memories he leaves behind.
Farewell, Associate Professor, Meritorious Teacher Nguyen Nhat Khanh. His image, character, and contributions will forever be cherished and remembered by colleagues and generations of students.
