“At the end of our experience at Thanh Do University, the most valuable thing I take home is friendship. I have made so many new friends, and I believe that the Vietnam–Laos friendship will remain as strong as the memories we have created together.”

This was one of the heartfelt reflections shared by Laotian students after completing the Vietnam–Laos 2025 International Student Cultural Exchange Program at Thanh Do University. Under the theme “Friendship – Vietnam & Laos – Everlasting,” the exchange concluded with a wealth of cherished memories for both Laotian students and Thadoers, marking a journey of experience, connection, and harmony.

A Bridge of Culture, Learning, and Unity

The Vietnam–Laos International Student Cultural Exchange Program offered more than cultural insights; it became a bridge for young students from both countries to learn, experience, share, and strengthen traditional friendship ties. The diverse activities provided a vibrant, creative space for deepening mutual understanding of culture, people, and values, while celebrating the enduring friendship between Vietnam and Laos.

Immersive Cultural Experiences

During their visit, Laotian students engaged in activities rich in cultural and historical significance, fostering bonds with Thanh Do students. Creative workshops like painting conical hats, collaborative poster design, and artistic activities encouraged students to express messages of unity, friendship, and shared heritage. Students incorporated symbols such as the lotus flower, the national flags, and iconic patterns reflecting both nations’ traditions, blending creativity with cultural appreciation.

Vietnam–Laos International Student Exchange 2025

As part of cultural and historical exploration, Lao students visited iconic sites such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, museums, and the exhibition “80 Years of the Journey to Independence – Freedom – Happiness.” These visits helped students understand Vietnam’s history of nation-building and preservation, while also appreciating the shared spirit of independence, freedom, and unity between the two fraternal nations.

Lao students also participated in academic sessions and discussions with students majoring in Vietnamese Studies and Language at Thanh Do University. These activities provided opportunities to explore culture through language, enhance communication skills, boost confidence, and cultivate global-minded thinking.

Connection and Harmony – Lao Students and Thadoers Learning and Growing Together

“Thanh Do University left me with so many beautiful impressions: modern facilities, a friendly environment, and teachers who are attentive and approachable. The students are open, hospitable, and kind, always ready to help. I felt the sincerity in every smile, greeting, and way people shared with us” said Son, a Lao student reflecting on the Vietnam–Laos student cultural exchange.

Sports and Teambuilding: Strengthening Connections

Sports activities served as a universal language, energizing the cultural exchange. From friendly volleyball matches, “Jumping Friendship” sessions, Yoga, to dynamic Teambuilding challenges such as sack races, relay games, dry-land boat races, and tug-of-war, students experienced collaboration, coordination, and fun. These activities offered Laotian students a platform to integrate, bond, and celebrate friendship with Thadoers through teamwork, laughter, and shared effort.

During the teambuilding events at the Thado Edupark campus, students enjoyed dynamic games such as the “Funny Pants Relay,” sack races, land boat races, blindfolded can hitting, powder passing, and tug-of-war. Each activity not only brought excitement but also required teamwork, coordination, and dexterity.

Exciting Teambuilding Competitions Between Lao Students and Thanh Do University Students

“What I remember most is the teambuilding and club activities. Playing together and overcoming challenges together, the distance between us and the Thanh Do students completely disappeared, replaced by connection and laughter” shared Phat, a Lao student.

Closing Ceremony – Concluding the Journey, Opening Lasting Friendships

The exchange program concluded with a warm and emotional closing ceremony, marking a new chapter in educational cooperation and friendship between Vietnam and Laos.

A highlight of the closing ceremony was the culinary competition “Vietnam–Laos Flavors: Gathering the Essence” where Vietnamese and Lao students showcased traditional dishes from their countries.

Vietnam–Laos Flavors: Gathering the Essence

Lao students introduced traditional dishes such as Lao sticky rice, Savannakhet grilled chicken, and fish lap, while Thanh Do students presented Vietnamese culinary delights, including spring rolls, rolled pho, and longan lotus dessert.

The top prize was awarded to the authentic Lao Culinary Team, whose meticulous preparation, preserved traditional flavors, and meaningful presentation won over the judges.

The competition added vibrancy and energy to the program, celebrating not just food but cultural exchange, pride, and heritage. Students and teachers enjoyed the dishes together, sharing stories and appreciating the common pride in their traditions despite cultural differences.

Dr. Nguyen Thuy Van, Vice Rector of Thanh Do University, praised the program’s achievements and emphasized its practical significance. Through these diverse experiences, the program fostered solidarity and friendship between Vietnamese and Lao students while opening further opportunities for collaboration in education and student exchanges.

The University expressed gratitude to the Board of Rectors, faculty, and 23 Lao students from Quang Tri College of Education for their active participation. Thanh Do University hopes to continue expanding multi-field exchange activities, fostering cooperation and development, enhancing its educational standing, and strengthening Vietnam–Laos friendship.

Dr. Nguyen Thuy Van, Vice Rector of Thanh Do University, expressed the desire to launch more international student exchange programs, further deepening cooperation between the two institutions.

Dr. Truong Dinh Thang, Rector of Quang Tri College of Education, sincerely thanked the Board, faculty, and students of Thanh Do University for this invaluable experience, describing it as a meaningful gift for each Lao student.

Representatives of the Lao students also expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the faculty and students of Thanh Do University, emphasizing that this journey provided them not only knowledge and experience but also cherished friendships and unforgettable memories.

Thanh Do University presented certificates of completion and keepsakes to Lao students

Thanh Do University announced 15 full scholarships for the entire Information Technology program for Lao students. The University ensured maximum support so that students could complete their studies both at Quang Tri College of Education and Thanh Do University.

A Journey of Connection – Lasting Impressions

“After the immersive experience at Thanh Do University, the most precious thing I want to take home is friendship. I’ve made many new friends, and I believe the Vietnam–Laos friendship will remain as strong as the memories we created together.”

The 2025 Vietnam–Laos International Student Exchange Program left unforgettable impressions on every student, enhancing their understanding of the culture, history, and people of both countries; offering experiential, creative, and collaborative learning; and fostering lasting international friendships, affirming the enduring spirit of Vietnam–Laos solidarity.

Representatives of Lao students expressed sincere gratitude to Thanh Do University and Quang Tri College of Education for providing this exchange opportunity.

Many Lao students shared their heartfelt reflections on the meaningful and enjoyable journey: “I want to take home these special cultural experiences because they help me better understand the people and country of Vietnam and appreciate regional cultural diversity. I also want to take away knowledge and valuable lessons from the openness and eagerness to learn of Thanh Do University’s faculty and students, to apply to my studies and life.”

These experiences serve as great motivation for Thanh Do University to continue being a bridge, connecting students in a multicultural and multi-experiential environment, spreading a spirit of learning, innovation, integration, and development.

Thanh Do University believes that today’s experiences will become invaluable assets for Lao students while motivating Thanh Do students to broaden their perspectives and nurture their aspirations to reach out to the world.

The performances expressing the Vietnam–Laos student solidarity provided a stunning finale for the 2025 Vietnam–Laos International Student Exchange Program: “Friendship – Vietnam–Laos – Enduring.”

Thanh Do University

Address: Km15, National Highway 32, Hoai Duc, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hotline: (+84) 934 078 668 - (+84) 243 386 1601

Website: https://thanhdo.edu.vn/ 

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