Following the success of the 2023 international internship program, the Faculty of International Relations (IR) implemented the internship in Thailand and Cambodia for students in the 2020 cohort for over 10 days (from March 14 to March 24). Students have gained valuable knowledge, broadened their mindsets, and had memorable experiences in these destinations.
On this trip, students have visited and studied in numerous places including Preah Sihamoniraja Buddhist University; Royal University of Phnom Penh (Cambodia); Killing Fields; Toul Sleng Genocide Museum; Tonle Sap; Asian Institute of Technology (AIT); The National Assembly of Thailand; Thammasat University; Bangkok University; United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP); South East Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO).
Students learned about the development of Buddhism in Cambodia
According to the sharing of Dr. Tran Thanh Huyen, prior to embarking on their internship abroad, students enrolled in this course had four weeks to research international agencies, organizations, and universities in the schedule, enabling them to propose research and select topics for their internship reports. Besides, they also prepared exchange contents and cultural exchange activities with units under the instructions of the course lecturers.
UEFers interacted with students of the Royal University of Phnom Penh (Cambodia)
Students participated in specialized activities during their visits to various destinations, aimed at enhancing their knowledge, such as: learning about the development of Buddhism in Cambodia; making a brief presentation on “The viewpoints of Cambodian and Vietnamese youth on key cooperation areas and the future of Cambodia-Vietnam bilateral relations”; learning about the genocide perpetrated by the Khmer Rouge during their reign from 1975 to 1979; observing and studying the proceedings of the National Assembly, the legislative process, the history, and tasks of the National Assembly of Thailand, the roles of its members, voting, debating or announcing the Government's policies; gaining an overview of UNESCAP; listening to a presentation on the prospects for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Asia and the Pacific as well as summaries of UNESCAP’s work in trade, investment and innovation; receiving an introduction to the SEAMEO organization;
Visiting, interacting, and presenting gifts to students at a Vietnamese primary school in Tonle Sap
In addition, IR students can participate in cultural exchange activities with students from other universities and visit, exchange, and present gifts to children at the Vietnamese Primary School in Tonle Sap. This is one of the most memorable moments of the journey of discovery and learning in the two neighboring countries.
“During the internship, UEFers have an opportunity to interact, discuss, ask questions, and learn from the local people and international friends, enriching the understanding of international relations. This experience also allows students to develop themselves, gain cultural awareness, and broaden their horizons. It is believed that every student has gained invaluable experiences and memories. We hope this trip marks the beginning of bright, further and more successful journeys in the future,” said Dr. Tran Thanh Huyen.
IR students visited and studied at the Asian Institute of Technology and learn about the National Assembly of Thailand
“The trip was extremely rewarding and wonderful for me as it brought many unforgettable experiences with students from Cambodia and Thailand. This was a new beginning of opportunities to meet and exchange with international students, bringing me many different perspectives. The accommodation was very clean and convenient, the international friends welcomed us very warmly, especially the food was very much to my taste and I would love to try it again if I have the chance to come back,” shared Tran Phi Hung after the internship.
Students visited Thammasat University and Bangkok University in Thailand
“The internship provided many valuable experiences and memories. Throughout the trip, we learned more about the culture and lifestyle of the people of Cambodia and Thailand. I also feel lucky to have stepped out of my comfort zone to integrate with people extensively,” said Nguyen Nhu Ngoc.
Students gained insights into UNESCAP and SEAMEO
After completing the internship, students will have four weeks to finalize their internship graduation report. During the last two weeks, they will organize a summary session of the Internship Graduation Report in front of the Professional and Scientific Council and the Board of Presidents.
The international internship program of International Relations major was first launched in 2023, providing students with many meaningful lessons. This trip also acknowledges many positive values for students, broadening their mindsets, and aiming to cultivate global citizen models in alignment with the UEF’s overall orientation. It is hoped that these internship experiences will help students complete their graduation reports and pave the way for a bright future.
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