Agricultural luminary Prof Vo Tong Xuan dies

Tran Huu Xinh, the vice chancellor of Nam Can Tho University, said Xuan, a People’s Educator and Honorary Chancellor of the university, died of illness at 7 a.m. at a HCMC hospital.

Professor Vo Tong Xuan. Photo by Van Luu

Xuan was the inventor of many delicious rice varieties and an expert specializing in food security issues faced by neighboring countries.

He played a key role in popularizing the IR36 rice variety in areas frequently attacked by pests in the Mekong Delta, collaborating with farmers to apply advanced grafting techniques.

He was also deeply involved in initiatives aimed at enhancing food security and implementing sustainable agricultural practices.

They introduced innovative farming techniques and promoted the adoption of new crop varieties that were more resistant to pests and diseases, significantly improving yields and farmers’ livelihoods.

His career was also marked by a commitment to education and mentoring.

As an honorary chancellor and a revered educator, he influenced many students and agricultural professionals, imparting a legacy of knowledge and passion for agriculture that continues to impact the field.

He was awarded an honorary title of professor of agronomy in 1980 and the Labor Hero award in 1985, and he was thrice elected a National Assembly delegate.

His funeral is expected to be held at the HCMC Funeral Home after which he will be buried in his hometown in An Giang Province in the delta.