International Student Day 2025: A Tapestry of Knowledge and Global Culture at UEF

International Student Day 2025 opened with a vibrant blend of culture and color. A parade of national flags representing nine countries, together with dynamic artistic performances, painted a lively, multicultural tableau. From the first glance, the first handshake, and the first encounter, the international spirit was palpable.

The parade of nine national flags set the tone for a global cultural atmosphere

Upholding the mission “Enterprises accompany students’ success, the labor market prospers,” Dr. Hà Thị Thủy – Dean of the Faculty of Finance & Accounting – outlined the Council’s operational objectives, specifically: to strengthen enterprise–academy engagement in training activities; to update the curriculum in a timely manner in line with career trends; to enhance learners’ practical competencies and professional skill standards; to increase opportunities for site visits, internships, and employment for learners; and to provide high-quality human resources that meet enterprise needs.

Representatives of UEF and international partners shared their joy, spirit of connection, and the cultural significance of the festival

The program welcomed the attendance of Ms. Ariadne Feo Labrada, Consul General, Consulate General of the Republic of Cuba in Ho Chi Minh City; Mr. Adiguna Wijaya, Acting Consul General, Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Ho Chi Minh City; Ms. Mao Zhaoxia, Consul, Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Ho Chi Minh City; Ms. Zhao Jienan, Vice Consul, Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Ho Chi Minh City; and Mr. Jaime Peypoch, President of the French Citizens of the World Association and General Secretary of Francophone Spatiality and Culture.

From UEF, attendees included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Đỗ Hữu Nguyên Lộc, Vice President; Dr. Ngô Minh Hải, Vice President; Prof. Dr. Eric Jose Olmedo Panal, Director of the Institute of International Education; together with many representatives of UEF units.

A key academic highlight of the day was the talk show “Studying in a Multicultural Environment” featuring M.A. Trương Phan Hoàng Anh (UEF Lecturer), Huỳnh Thanh Phú Quí (UEF student), and AHOYO Sénan (Student at Université Paris-Est Créteil).

Speakers shared their stories and experiences—from the excitement of first encounters with differences in language, customs, and learning methods, to the journey of overcoming communication barriers and divergent ways of thinking in order to adapt and thrive in a global setting. Each personal account was a unique piece of a larger mosaic that illuminates UEF’s vibrant academic life.

Beyond individual stories, the discussion broadened the academic lens and underscored the deeper meaning of the internationalization of education. A multicultural environment not only expands knowledge, but also hones critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills in a global context. Students are encouraged to use foreign languages as academic tools while learning to respect, listen, and collaborate within multinational teams. This interplay of knowledge and culture forms a solid foundation, enabling UEF students to excel professionally while cultivating the “capacity for integration”—a key factor for success in the era of globalization.

The talk show also reaffirmed UEF’s educational orientation: to equip students with the adaptability needed for a world in constant flux. The foremost takeaway was clear—by opening themselves to difference, students discover shared values and transform diversity into a source of strength for confidently stepping onto the global stage.

Concluding the event, the Culture Booths & Passport Game transformed UEF into a “miniature international village,” immersing students in multicultural experiences. With a “passport” in hand, participants eagerly “traveled” through booths representing the United Kingdom, United States, France–Italy, China, Indonesia, Laos–Cambodia, and, notably, a thoughtfully curated Vietnam booth rich in national identity.

Each booth served as a “cultural stop” with its own signature: distinctive cuisine, folk games, quick-thinking challenges, and lively artistic exchanges. Students were not only observers and participants; they became creative protagonists in their own learning journeys. With every challenge completed and every stamp added to their passports, they collected joy while piecing together new knowledge about the world’s diversity and richness.

These activities encouraged students to approach cultural knowledge through experiential learning—nurturing open-mindedness, respect for diversity, and the communication and adaptability skills required in international environments.

International Student Day 2025 at UEF became a bridge between Vietnamese and international students in both scholarship and culture. From its meaningful opening, to an inspiring talk show, to the energetic cultural booths, the event delivered a complete celebration marked by the spirit of integration. It stands as clear evidence of UEF’s strategy to internationalize education—preparing global citizens who are professionally competent, culturally grounded, and ready to step into the world with confidence and capability.