Can Tho University (CTU) focuses on training, conducting scientific research, and transferring technology to advance the socio-economic development of the Mekong Delta (MD) region. CTU’s strategic vision to 2020 is not only to become the best university in Viet Nam but to be recognized throughout Asia-Pacific as one of the leaders in education, research, and development. It will expand human knowledge and benefit society through its research, teaching and strategic partnerships, all the while developing itself within the framework of global integration and mutual cooperation.

By 2020, CTU aims to reach:
- 50%-60% of faculties with PhD degrees and be fluent in a foreign language, preferably English;
- Approximately 20% of students will be taking graduate programs (both Master’s and PhDs);
- International students (both degree and non-degree seeking) will account for 10% of the student populations
- 30-40% of teaching staff will publish papers on international peer reviewed journals
- To be in the top 250 universities in Asia-Pacific region