On February 28, 2026, the Faculty Board of Oriental Studies – Japanese Studies held a meeting with new Asian Studies graduate students at the Faculty Office A209. The meeting was attended by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Thi Hong Xuan (representing the Faculty Board), academic affairs staff MSc. Tran Thi Yen Van, and the new intake of the 2025 cohort – 2nd phase.
At the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Thi Hong Xuan provided an overview of the academic program and the faculty team, while offering guidance on selecting research topics and thesis writing in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The consultation emphasized the spirit of quality education and lifelong learning (SDG 4), encouraging students to develop research competencies to address the development challenges of the Asian region in the context of rapid economic, social, environmental, and digital transformation.
During the discussion session, students were encouraged to choose interdisciplinary and socially impactful research directions, particularly suggesting topics on reducing inequality in access to learning and development opportunities (SDG 10), gender equality in social life and academic spaces (SDG 5), as well as issues regarding sustainable cities (SDG 11), sustainable consumption and lifestyles (SDG 12), and climate change adaptation (SDG 13)—priorities that are increasingly prominent in regional studies and public policy.
The meeting took place in an intimate and open atmosphere, allowing students to ask questions, share expectations, and build academic connections with the Faculty. This activity also reflects the commitment to building a learning environment that respects diversity, enhances cross-cultural understanding, and promotes cooperation—in line with the spirit of partnerships for sustainable development goals (SDG 17).
Concluding the program, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Thi Hong Xuan extended her best wishes to the new students, hoping for a productive journey of study and research, proactive integration, and meaningful contributions to the community. The meeting closed with a meaningful commemorative photo session.
