On Sunday, December 10, 2023, 38 international students from Southeast Asian countries, including Laos, Cambodia, the Philippines, and 15 Vietnamese students from the Ho Chi Minh City Open University, participated in the cultural exchange event organized by the University in collaboration with the People's Committee of Ward 4, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnamese and Students gathered at the event

Attending the event, there was the presence of Mr. Tran Thanh Pon, Member of the Central Executive Committee of the Vietnam-Cambodia Friendship Association, Vice Chairman of the Vietnam-Cambodia Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh City. 

From the People's Committee of Ward 4, Phu Nhuan District, there were leaders, representatives from political and social organizations, and members of youth unions.

From Ho Chi Minh City Open University, there was the presence of Mr. Ho Thanh Son - Deputy Head of the Department Of Student Affairs and Communications; Mrs. Nguyen Thi Dieu Linh - Deputy Head of the Department Of Student Affairs and Communications; Mr. Tran Van Huu Thanh - Deputy Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union of HCMCOU; Mrs. Nguyen Thi Le My - academic staff of Department Of Student Affairs and Communications, along with teachers and more than 50 Vietnamese and international students currently studying at the University.

Representatives of Ho Chi Minh City Open University attending the event

As part of a series of extracurricular programs for international learners at the University, this cultural exchange day provided an opportunity for Vietnamese and international students to meet and exchange through various meaningful activities.

Colorful Cultural Space

At the event, students expressed their love for their homeland through unique cultural performances that highlighted the distinctive cultural features of each country. A noteworthy part of the event was the "Traditional Costume Showcase" featuring elegant performances by OU students.

Vietnamese and Students performing traditional costumes

"To prepare for today's cultural exchange, we, along with students from Cambodia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, practiced together. We represented our homelands, introducing the cultural beauty through traditional dances, traditional costumes, and together created an impressive and colorful performance." – shared Chaisavanh, a student from Laos.

In addition to cultural exchange performances, students engaged in a knowledge competition about the countries in Southeast Asia through the "Question and Answer" contest. Moreover, students have the opportunities to learn more about the culinary culture through various traditional dishes and desserts from countries in Southeast Asia, prepared by members from the People’s Committee of Ward 4, Phu Nhuan Dist.

Students participating in the "Question and Answer" contest

Traditional food booths at the event

Volunteering Activity: “Giving gifts to children”

The event also featured a small but meaningful volunteering activity initiated by the OU Green Plus Club, a club under the Student Affairs and Communication Department, where they distributed 10 cute teddy bears to underprivileged children in the ward. Additionally, the University representatives presented 50 bags to the children.

The OU Green Plus Club with representatives from Ho Chi Minh City Open University giving gifts to children

The event took place in a warm atmosphere, providing significant value for participating students and creating a space for cultural exchange, connection, and networking among different nations.

Pictures of the event: