With the goal of enhancing cultural exchange and creating opportunities for connections among international students, on the evening of December 27, 2024, at the VNU Square, 144 Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU) organized an international student exchange program to welcome the New Year 2025. The event was not only an occasion for students from around the world to share and learn from one another but also a fantastic opportunity to embrace the New Year with rich and vibrant cultural experiences. This was one of the most notable activities in the series of events celebrating the Lunar New Year 2025, attracting the participation of numerous international students and VNU faculty members.
Exploring wonderful cultural traits from different countries at VNU
The international student exchange program at Vietnam National University, Hanoi, attracted the participation of 350 students from various countries. The event aimed to foster cultural connections and enhance academic exchange among international students while creating a space for interaction, learning, and sharing diverse cultural values. Unique booths showcased products and cultural highlights from countries such as Hungary, China, Japan, and South Korea, offering international students an in-depth perspective on the richness and diversity of cultures around the world.
Attending the program were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Tuan Anh, Head of the Development Cooperation Department; Dr. Nguyen Trung Hien, Deputy Head of the Development Cooperation Department; Dr. Hua Thanh Hoa, Secretary of the VNU Youth Union; Dr. Phung Danh Thang, Dean of the International Francophone Institute; and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thanh Nam, Vice Rector of the University of Education.
The event was also honored to welcome Mr. Oleg Shlomia, Counselor of the Embassy of the Republic of Belarus; Mr. Trinh Dai Vi, Education Counselor of the Embassy of China; Mr. Le Tran Dac Ngoc, Chairman of the Global Student Fashion Week Organizing Committee; Mr. Nguyen Thang Long, Deputy Head of the Organizing Committee; Mr. Hoang Tung Linh, Creative Director; Global Student Model Ambassadors; and representatives of leadership from various units within Vietnam National University, Hanoi.
Impressive performances in the night
One of the highlights of the program was the vibrant cultural performances by international students studying at Vietnam National University, Hanoi. Musical acts, traditional dances, and fashion shows not only showcased the students’ artistic talents but also provided an opportunity for them to present unique aspects of their home cultures.
Notably, the “Chao Xuan” fashion show by the Global Student Fashion Week (GSFW) Organizing Committee added a special highlight to the program. The Global Student Model Ambassadors, who are titleholders and runners-up from various universities, delivered a stunning performance showcasing collections of ao dai rich in traditional cultural elements yet highly creative. Held at the Vietnam National University Square, the fusion of tradition and innovation in the ao dai designs left a strong impression on the audience.
Building connections and opening opportunities – Promising 2025 for VNU international students
The program concluded with the countdown to welcome the New Year 2025, which was not only a celebration of sound and light but also a symbol of the strong bonds among international students. Everyone raised their glasses to celebrate, sharing joy and hope for a new year filled with opportunities.
This was not only an occasion for gathering and well-wishing but also a strong affirmation of the spirit of learning and international cooperation at Vietnam National University, Hanoi. It laid the groundwork for a new year filled with discoveries, learning, and fresh connections. Each student participating in the program had the opportunity to shape their future and foster cross-border collaboration. The event served as a platform for international students to continue building a more cohesive and thriving academic community.
Aeris | Cameron Truong
