On the afternoon of June 25, 2026, the “Welcome Ceremony & Cultural Exchange Session between Kampong Glam CC, Singapore and the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City” took place at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City.
The program was organized by the External Relations and Scientific Management Office, the Vietnam – ASEAN Cultural Exchange Center, and the Faculty of Oriental Studies at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, in coordination with the Vietnam – ASEAN Friendship Association of Ho Chi Minh City. The event saw the participation of 38 students and faculty members from 17 schools in Singapore under Kampong Glam CC, along with 48 lecturers and students from the Faculty of Oriental Studies, guests, and accompanying units.
This activity contributes to strengthening people-to-people exchange and promoting intercultural understanding between Vietnamese and Singaporean youth. It also aims to spread the values of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through education, dialogue, and international cooperation.
Opening the program, Dr. Le Thi Sinh Hien – Deputy Director of the Faculty of Oriental Studies, provided an overview of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, and the Faculty of Oriental Studies, as well as the faculty’s training programs, scientific research activities, international cooperation, and development orientations in the context of integration. The introduction helped the Singaporean delegation better understand the academic environment, training strengths, and opportunities for cooperation between the two sides.
The highlight of the program was the thematic session “Exploring Vietnamese Culture” presented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Thi Hong Xuan – Director of the Faculty of Oriental Studies, Director of the Vietnam – ASEAN Cultural Exchange Center, and President of the Vietnam – ASEAN Friendship Association of Ho Chi Minh City. With an approachable, vivid, and highly interactive approach, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Thi Hong Xuan introduced the core values of Vietnamese culture through iconic symbols such as ao dai, non la, lotus, pho, banh mi, coffee, etc. She also analyzed the Vietnamese cultural identity from the perspective of cultural acculturation, the spirit of solidarity in diversity, and creativity during the process of regional and global integration.
Following the sharing session, Vietnamese and Singaporean students were divided into 06 mixed groups to discuss, create, and present on the characteristic cultural symbols of both nations. Each group, consisting of students from both countries, designed products on A0 paper, exchanged perspectives, and delivered presentations before the entire assembly. The activity created an open space for dialogue, helping the youth enhance their teamwork skills, intercultural communication, and gain a deeper understanding of the common values of the ASEAN Community.
The atmosphere became even more vibrant when the Singaporean delegation performed a carefully prepared cultural exchange show featuring Vietnamese songs loved by the youth. The familiar melodies bridged the language gap, bringing forth many emotions and enthusiastic applause from students of both countries.
In addition to academic activities, the program organized various spaces for experiencing Vietnamese culture, allowing delegates and international students to directly explore traditional values associated with contemporary life.
The Tea Ceremony and Calligraphy space, sponsored by Due Tam Tra, offered an experience in the art of tea appreciation and Vietnamese calligraphy. Singaporean students not only learned about the cultural significance of each brushstroke and tea cup but also participated directly in practicing calligraphy and enjoying tea within an space steeped in traditional identity.
The Glass Chess space attracted a large number of students with exciting matches, contributing to the introduction of a creative product by the Vietnamese people, while also enhancing team spirit and exchange between students from both countries.
Notably, Diep Truong Phat Production, Processing, and Trading Co., Ltd. introduced a new line of healthy pastries, contributing to the promotion of Vietnamese food products in line with sustainable development trends, aiming for a green lifestyle and community health care. The activity was also an opportunity for international students to learn more about the innovation and creativity of Vietnamese businesses in the food sector.
Closing the program were handshakes, commemorative photos, and many promises to meet again between Vietnamese and Singaporean students. Beyond being a cultural exchange activity, the program demonstrated the role of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, in promoting global education, strengthening people-to-people diplomacy, and connecting partners within the ASEAN region. Through academic activities, cultural experiences, and business networking, the program contributed to nurturing global citizenship, enhancing intercultural understanding, and spreading the spirit of cooperation for sustainable development.
