Every October, the vibrant atmosphere of Vietnamese Women's Day fills the streets. The images of fresh flowers and heartfelt wishes presented to beloved women have become a beautiful tradition of the country. At Ho Chi Minh City Open University, this spirit of gratitude is even more widespread with the enthusiastic participation of international learners.

The Origin and Meaning of Vietnamese Women's Day

October 20th is Vietnamese Women's Day, marking the first time in Vietnamese history that an organization exclusively for women was legally and publicly operated - the Vietnam Women's Union. This day also marks the first time Vietnamese women were allowed to vote, participate in government and social work, and hold important positions in the state apparatus.

They are not only caring women in the family but also brave soldiers on the battlefield and tireless social activists. Whether in war or in peace, they remain patriotic Vietnamese women with intelligence, health, dynamism, creativity, cultural lifestyle, and compassion, caring about the interests of society and the community.

Today, Vietnamese women make significant contributions to the country's development. As President Ho Chi Minh once said: "The Vietnamese silk brocade is due to Vietnamese women, both young and old, who work hard to make it more beautiful and splendid."

Every October 20th is a day for the country, society, husbands, children to recognize the great contributions of mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, and daughters who deserve the title: "Heroic, steadfast, gentle, and diligent."

International learners Actively Participate in Special Events

In the bustling atmosphere of October 20th, international learners showed their appreciation for women with beautiful bouquets of flowers. Flowers were carefully arranged and presented to teachers and female staff members, along with heartfelt wishes.

International learners made special gifts for their lecturers

In addition, learners also showcased their talents through online competitions such as cooking and sending warm wishes to the women in their families, organized by OU Help To be Helped Club -H2BH (International learners support). More excitingly, Namthip Manivong, learner from Laos, won second prize with a video of herself making a traditional Lao dish, accompanied by the message: "To the world, I may be a small grain of sand, but to my mother, I am the whole world. Love is a special gift of life and no one can live without being loved. So, don't hesitate to express your love to your loved ones, family, friends. Regardless of gender, everyone has talent. Always be strong!”

Previously, international learners at Ho Chi Minh City Open University also visited and explored several museums in District 3. Mohammed, a learner from Ghana shared his feelings after visiting the Southern Women's Museum: "I am truly impressed by the strength and resilience of Vietnamese women. Through the stories told at the museum, I have a deeper understanding of the traditional values, the strength within Vietnamese women, and the appreciation for peace and national unity."

With the desire to create a friendly and diverse learning environment, Ho Chi Minh City Open University always creates conditions for international learners to integrate into the Vietnamese learner community. Extracurricular activities, clubs, and cultural events serve as bridges, helping international learners and Vietnamese learners understand and bond with each other. As a result, it contributes to building a dynamic, creative, and united learning community.