On April 16, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (USSH, VNU–HCM) welcomed a delegation from the Central Committee of the Communist Youth League of China, led by Mr. A Đông, First Secretary of the Secretariat. Accompanying them was a delegation from the Central Committee of the HCM Communist Youth Union, headed by Mr. Bùi Quang Huy, First Secretary.
The meeting brought together senior representatives from youth unions and university leaders – Photo: LÝ NGUYÊN
During the session, Prof. Dr. Ngô Thị Phương Lan, Rector of USSH, highlighted the institution’s pivotal role in strengthening Vietnam–China relations through education, culture, and training. Currently, over 2,300 students are enrolled in Chinese language and studies programs, alongside a significant number of Chinese students studying at the university. In addition, USSH, VNU–HCM maintains close partnerships with leading Chinese institutions and regularly organizes cultural and academic initiatives, such as the “Chinese Bridge” competition, bilateral academic conferences, student exchanges, and art exhibitions.
Prof. Dr. Ngô Thị Phương Lan underlines USSH’s contribution to bilateral cooperation through educational and cultural exchange – Photo: LÝ NGUYÊN
Mr. A Đông expressed appreciation for the university’s warm hospitality and commended USSH’s longstanding contributions to educational and cultural collaboration between the two nations.
Mr. A Đông reaffirms the youth’s essential role in promoting socialism and strengthening bilateral ties – Photo: LÝ NGUYÊN
Mr. Bùi Quang Huy emphasized the importance of innovation in youth union work amid globalization. He noted the HCM Communist Youth Union's development of practical models focused on digital competencies, entrepreneurship, innovation, and volunteerism – initiatives that gain greater significance through international collaboration, particularly with China.
Mr. Bùi Quang Huy, First Secretary of the HCM Communist Youth Union, delivers remarks at the meeting – Photo: LÝ NGUYÊN
As a gesture of friendship, Prof. Dr. Ngô Thị Phương Lan presented the Chinese delegation with lotus tea and a handcrafted artwork titled Vietnamese Countryside, created using a fire pen on palmyra leaves. The gift symbolized mutual respect and aspirations for enduring bilateral cooperation.
Prof. Dr. Ngô Thị Phương Lan presents a handcrafted artwork to the Chinese delegation – Photo: LÝ NGUYÊN
Mr. A Đông, in return, presented a commemorative gift to Prof. Dr. Ngô Thị Phương Lan – Photo: LÝ NGUYÊN
Following the meeting, the delegations participated in the Vietnam–China Youth Affairs Seminar hosted by the university. Centered on the theme “Innovating the Content and Methods of Youth Union Activities in the New Context,” the seminar featured contributions from university leaders including Dr. Lê Hoàng Dũng (Vice Rector), Mr. Trần Nam (Head of Student Affairs), and Mr. Nguyễn Huỳnh Minh Phúc (Secretary of the university's Youth Union).
Mr. Bùi Quang Huy delivers the opening speech at the seminar – Photo: LÝ NGUYÊN
Participants discussed the vital role of youth in national development, addressing shared challenges such as globalization, societal transformation, and cultural identity erosion. The need to modernize youth union activities was underscored as essential to maintaining relevance and impact. The Chinese delegation praised Vietnam's creative models and technological integration, which could serve as adaptable frameworks for both countries – particularly in the context of the upcoming 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 2025 People–to–People Exchange.
Delegates share keynote presentations and insights during the seminar – Photo: LÝ NGUYÊN
Mr. Nguyễn Huỳnh Minh Phúc expressed pride in hosting this significant exchange, noting that USSH students are dynamic, technologically adept, and deeply engaged in the arts and intercultural dialogue. He expressed hope for more academic and cultural programs to promote mutual understanding, shared values, and sustained youth engagement between Vietnam and China. He also highlighted the potential for collaboration in science and technology, especially artificial intelligence, as a driver of innovation and mutual advancement.
Mr. Nguyễn Huỳnh Minh Phúc emphasizes the importance of future youth exchanges – Photo: LÝ NGUYÊN
The meeting not only marked a formal diplomatic occasion but also served as a platform for the exchange of innovative youth union practices. In a rapidly evolving Asia–Pacific region, strong linkages among youth, education, and culture lay the groundwork for strategic, long–term cooperation. As a leading institution in the social sciences and humanities, USSH, VNU–HCM continues to play a critical role in bridging academic and cultural relations between the young generations of Vietnam and China.
Some highlights from the visit:
Source: LÝ NGUYÊN – TUẤN VỦ – THU THẢO
Translated by: Như Quỳnh Lý
