Originating with the University of Indochina of 1904 and formally established in accordance with Decree No 97/CP of 10 December 1993, this large multi-disciplinary higher educational institution and research centre of excellence is entrusted with the task of producing qualified human resources for the industrialisation and modernisation of the country. Holding a special position in the Vietnamese system of tertiary education, Hà Nội National University operates according to a special regulation promulgated by the Prime Minister (Decision No 16/2001/QD-TTg dated 12 February 2001) which defines that the University reports directly to the Prime Minister and enjoys the highest autonomy in organisation and personnel, training programmes, science and technology, planning and finance, international relations and other fields. The University is entitled to work directly with ministries, ministerial-level organisations, government bodies and people’s committees of central cities and provinces concerning affairs related to its operations and activities. Furthermore each of the University’s constituent colleges and institutes maintains the status of a higher education and scientific research institution, like other universities and colleges outside of the National University. With a history of over 45 years of development, the University’s colleges have played a special role in the educational, cultural and socio-economic development of Việt Nam, turning out many leading scientists, politicians, management personnel and specialists in various fields.