Giảng đường Hồ Đắc Di

Amidst the bustling energy of Hanoi, a quiet sanctuary of knowledge awaits. This is Giảng đường Hồ Đắc Di, a lecture hall nestled within the Hanoi Medical University. It’s more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a tribute to a remarkable Vietnamese physician, Hồ Đắc Di. Hồ Đắc Di’s journey began in 1900, in the serene province of Hà Tĩnh. His family, rooted in Hue and steeped in scholarly tradition, recognized his potential. They nurtured his curiosity, sending him to Lycée Albert Sarraut in Hanoi. Following the advice of a royal physician, Hồ Đắc Di embarked on a transformative journey to France in 1918. He pursued medicine at the prestigious University of Paris, immersing himself in the world of Western medical advancements. His time in Paris wasn’t solely dedicated to academics. He crossed paths with Nguyễn Ái Quốc, later known as Ho Chi Minh, at the student association. This encounter sparked a lifelong friendship between the two future leaders. Hồ Đắc Di excelled in his studies, becoming a resident physician at Cochin Hospital, a leading institution in clinical medicine. Remarkably, he achieved this despite being a foreigner and facing language barriers. He pioneered a groundbreaking surgical technique for treating peptic ulcers, a significant advancement from the then-common practice of gastric resection. Giảng đường Hồ Đắc Di stands as a testament to his dedication to medical innovation. Upon his return to Vietnam in 1931, he faced resistance from French authorities who sought to limit competition for their own doctors. Despite his expertise and reputation in France, he was initially relegated to the position of an assistant doctor. Undeterred, he persevered, eventually earning the right to practice surgery, becoming the third and the first Vietnamese person granted this privilege by the French administration. He served as the first director of Hanoi Medical University, navigating the challenges of war and displacement. He led the university’s relocation to various locations, ensuring the continuation of medical education amidst the turmoil. His contributions to medical education and research were invaluable, mentoring notable physicians and publishing numerous scientific papers. Giảng đường Hồ Đắc Di is not merely a lecture hall; it embodies the spirit of a man who dedicated his life to advancing medicine in Vietnam. His legacy resonates within these walls, inspiring generations of medical professionals to pursue knowledge and serve their nation.