On the morning of September 13, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City (USSH-VNUHCM), officially launched the Freshers’ Week 2026 under the theme “Ride the Waves, Rise to New Heights” at the Nhan Van Hall, Linh Xuan Campus. The program marked the beginning of a series of activities designed to accompany and support new students throughout their academic journey, personal development, and university experience at USSH-VNUHCM.
The opening ceremony was attended by Prof. Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan, USSH-VNUHCM President; Mr. Tran Nam, Head of the Office of Student Affairs; Mr. Lai Duy Long, Deputy Secretary of the Youth Union and Head of the Organizing Committee of the Freshers’ Week 2026; and Ms. Le Thi Trang Dai, President of the USSH Student Association. Representing the VNUHCM Youth Union Standing Committee was Ms. Nguyen Thi Binh Phuong, academic staff. The event also brought together representatives from various organizations and more than 500 new students of the 2026 intake.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Lai Duy Long warmly welcomed freshmen as they officially became students of USSH-VNUHCM. He noted that the 2026–2027 academic year marks several important milestones for the University, including the 70th anniversary of the University of Letters and General tradition (1957–2027) and the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the USSH Student Association (January 10, 1997–January 10, 2027). The milestones also provide an opportunity for the Youth Union and Student Association to further promote the spirit of youth leadership, pioneering action, and dedication through community service and volunteer activities, contributing to the development of the distinctive identity and image of USSH students.
As part of the Welcome Week, the Organizing Committee has prepared a wide range of activities for new students, covering academic development, practical skills, culture, sports, and student engagement. The Social Skills Development Series, taking place from September 14 to 18, is designed to help them adapt to the university environment and develop essential practical skills. The 2026 Freshmen Singing Festival was held on September 13, with the final performance and awards ceremony scheduled for the evening of September 19.
In addition, students can take part in the Student Association Membership Induction Ceremony and a traditional exchange program with alumni; the “Proud of USSH-VNUHCM” Letter-Writing Challenge; the USSH-VNUHCM Cultural and Sports Meeting Point series; as well as a space featuring student clubs, teams, and groups, together with Random Dance activities. A highlight of the Welcome Week is the New Student Welcome Night, featuring an exchange program with special guest artists.
Also at the program, Ms. Le Thi Trang Dai presented a report on the achievements of the “Students of 5 Merits” movement in the 2025–2026 academic year. The movement is based on five criteria: good ethics, good physical fitness, good academic performance, good volunteer spirit, and good integration. As a result, six students and two collectives received the “Students of 5 Merits” title at the national level; 18 individuals and two collectives received the title at the city level; 81 individuals and two collectives at the VNUHCM level; and 154 individuals and three collectives at the university level. In addition, more than 600 individuals received the title at the level of their respective Student Associations.
With the closing of the opening ceremony, the 2026 Welcome Week for new students was officially launched, marking the beginning of an exciting journey of discovery for the 2026 intake. The activities will continue over the coming days, creating opportunities for new students to familiarize themselves with university life, develop essential skills, connect with the student community, and discover the traditions and values of USSH-VNUHCM.
