UEF Students Connect With Meisei High School Through Cultural Exchange

Continuing its internationalization initiatives through overseas study and internship programs, UEF welcomed a delegation of teachers and students from Meisei High School (Japan) on July 29 for a language and cultural exchange program. The event created meaningful opportunities for Vietnamese and Japanese students to connect while strengthening foreign language proficiency, global awareness, and intercultural communication skills among UEF students.

Bringing An International Learning Environment To Campus

The program was attended by Dr. Nhan Cam Tri, Vice President of UEF, together with representatives from the Faculties of Languages and International Cultures, Public Relations and Communications, Tourism and Hospitality Management, English, International Relations, Marketing, and Business Administration.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Nhan Cam Tri described the event as an important milestone marking the beginning of collaborative and cultural exchange activities between the two institutions. He also expressed his hope that the program would become an annual tradition, fostering lasting friendship and expanding international opportunities for young people from Vietnam and Japan.

The event also welcomed students from UEF's partner high schools across Ho Chi Minh City, creating a broader platform for cultural exchange, learning, and mutual understanding. UEF believes that these meaningful interactions will encourage participants to broaden their international perspectives while creating unforgettable memories.

UEF representatives expressed their commitment to strengthening collaboration between the two institutions.

Representatives from Meisei High School shared that the school's educational philosophy focuses on developing globally minded leaders while preserving traditional values. Their five-day visit to Vietnam forms part of the school's global education program, designed to broaden students' perspectives through firsthand international experiences.

During their journey, the delegation visited Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and continued to Ho Chi Minh City. A key objective of the trip was to learn about Vietnam's history, particularly its wartime heritage, to deepen students' appreciation for the value of peace. Following visits to the Cu Chi Tunnels and historical museums, the delegation expressed a strong interest in learning more about Vietnamese culture and people while building friendships with international peers.

The delegation from Meisei High School expressed their appreciation for UEF's warm hospitality.

UEF students introduced Ho Chi Minh City, the University's learning environment, and distinctive aspects of Vietnamese culture and daily life. In return, students from Meisei High School presented an overview of their school, student life, and educational environment in Japan, offering UEF students valuable insights into Japanese culture and education.

The presentations created a welcoming atmosphere, allowing participants to connect naturally before moving into a series of interactive exchange activities.

During the program, UEF students, together with students from partner high schools in Ho Chi Minh City, joined Japanese students in group discussions covering a wide range of topics related to Japan, including popular tourist destinations, cuisine, seasonal festivals, pop culture, anime and manga, technological innovation, as well as school life and everyday experiences of Japanese youth.

Beyond exploring each country's unique cultural characteristics, participants also exchanged ideas about languages, hobbies, learning methods, and personal experiences. The program provided UEF students with valuable opportunities to practice English and Japanese in authentic communication settings while enhancing intercultural competence, building confidence, and forming meaningful international friendships.

UEF students actively engaged with and supported their international peers throughout the exchange.

Following the on-campus activities, the Meisei High School delegation continued their visit with a city tour of Ho Chi Minh City, exploring iconic landmarks and gaining deeper insights into Vietnam's culture, lifestyle, and people.

The language and cultural exchange program with Meisei High School further reflects UEF's commitment to internationalization by expanding global partnerships and creating more opportunities for students to learn, connect, and develop international competencies without leaving campus. Experiences like these not only strengthen students' foreign language proficiency but also cultivate a global mindset, preparing them to thrive in international academic and professional environments.

Center for Information and Communication