Teacher Turns Knowledge into Startup Product
Ms. Nguyen Thuy Phuong Tram, a teacher at Duc Trong High School, has not only inspired students in the classroom but also ventured into writing and creative startup projects, turning knowledge into practical value for everyday life.
Pursuing Academic Excellence
Dr. Tram began her educational journey after graduating in Mathematics–Informatics from Da Lat University. In 1999, she started teaching at Duc Trong High School, where she has remained dedicated to education ever since.
However, earning a bachelor’s degree was only the starting point of her academic journey. Driven by a strong passion for research and supported by her family and colleagues, she continued her studies, obtaining a master’s degree in 2013 and successfully defending her doctoral dissertation in 2019.
Alongside her teaching work, Dr. Tram has also become an active author. Since 2022, inspired by her academic mentor, she has published eight books with her research team, including seven reference books and one academic monograph.
Her research output is equally notable, with 30 scientific papers published in reputable domestic and international journals—an achievement reflecting years of dedication to scholarship and knowledge sharing.
Turning Research into Real-World Applications
Beyond academic writing, Dr. Tram has also guided students in applying scientific knowledge to practical innovation projects.
One notable initiative, “Gel, Shampoo, and Hair Care Products made from Green Mugwort,” combines scientific research with traditional herbal knowledge. The project won Second Prize at the Lam Dong Provincial Innovation Startup Competition in 2023, earned another second prize at the Students with Innovative Startup Ideas competition in Ho Chi Minh City, and was showcased at Techfest Vietnam.
Through STEM education and research programs, she encourages students to move beyond theoretical learning by creating practical products. Student projects under her mentorship include low-cost water filtration systems, activated carbon made from coffee husks, and antibacterial paper produced from wild ginger plants.
A Startup Idea Rooted in Local Agriculture
Among her latest initiatives, the project “Herb-fed Chicken Eggs” has gained significant attention. Led by Dr. Tram and her team, the project won First Prize at the 2025 Lam Dong Provincial Innovation Startup Competition.
By incorporating rosemary herbs into poultry feed, the project produces a distinctive line of herb-fed eggs that are safe for consumers while reducing the use of antibiotics in livestock farming.
The initiative has already attracted investor interest and is being transferred to local farmers, helping increase the value of agricultural products in Lam Dong Province.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Despite balancing teaching, research, and writing, Dr. Tram continues contributing to higher education by teaching part-time at Da Lat University, Dong Thap University, and Saigon University.
When asked about her seemingly endless energy, she modestly shared that time always feels too short, and she simply wishes for more hours to pursue her work.
For Dr. Tram, each day is an opportunity to turn research into practical applications—helping students transform ideas into products and bringing science closer to everyday life.
“Ms. Tram is an enthusiastic teacher who always strives to fulfill her responsibilities to the best of her ability. Her passion for guiding students in scientific research and entrepreneurship has inspired many students, helping them turn ideas on paper into meaningful practical value.
Ms. Vu Anh Minh Trang, Vice Principal of Duc Trong High School