Differences in language, culture, and perspectives became the foundation for meaningful connections as students from around the world came together to learn, explore, and contribute to sustainable development.
That spirit was on full display at the opening ceremony of HUTECH Global Camp 2026, held on 20 July. Under the theme "Through Our Eyes: Saigon and Sustainability," the program, hosted by Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH), welcomed HUTECH students alongside participants from EPF Engineering School (France), UCSI University (Malaysia), GSFC University and CGC University (India), National Taiwan University of Sport (Taiwan, China), and Woosong University (South Korea).
Throughout the program, learning and experiential activities are closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Quality Education (SDG 4), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). Through these experiences, students expand their global networks while strengthening their awareness of social and environmental responsibility.

The learning journey fosters a stronger sense of responsibility among students
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Ly Thien Trang, Vice President of HUTECH, encouraged participants to actively engage in every activity, ask questions, build friendships, and explore Vietnam's culture, people, and cuisine. She also expressed her hope that the upcoming field trips would provide memorable experiences and meaningful insights throughout their stay in Vietnam.
Dr. Ly Thien Trang delivers the opening remarks
As part of the opening ceremony, Mr. Tran Dinh Tuan, Head of the Tourism and Travel Services Management Program at Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance (UEF), introduced participants to Vietnam's cultural traditions, customs, social etiquette, and local practices. Through engaging stories about the national flag, the conical hat, the lotus, and other cultural symbols, international students gained valuable insights into Vietnamese society and were better prepared to adapt throughout the program.
Mr. Tran Dinh Tuan introduces Vietnamese culture to international students
On the same day, participants also joined the "Zero Waste Cooking Challenge" workshop, an activity designed to promote sustainable living, reduce food waste, and raise environmental awareness through culinary experiences.
Guided by Chef Pham Minh Thuy, students learned to prepare gỏi cuốn (Vietnamese fresh spring rolls), one of Vietnam's most iconic traditional dishes. Divided into four teams, they worked together to prepare the ingredients, roll the spring rolls, and present their final creations.
Preparing Vietnamese fresh spring rolls offers participants a memorable hands on experience
Following the cooking session, each team presented its creation under imaginative themes including "Flower Garden," "The Ship," "Three Blossoms," and "Green Environment." Beyond showcasing culinary skills, each presentation reflected teamwork, creativity, and a shared commitment to environmental sustainability.
Creative culinary presentations highlight teamwork
In the coming days, the program will continue with a week of field experiences across Ho Chi Minh City and nearby destinations. Students will learn the art of making traditional conical hats, explore Vietnam's coffee culture, discover the Mekong Delta, and experience Minh Long ceramic craftsmanship. Each activity is designed to provide fresh perspectives on preserving cultural heritage, using resources responsibly, and promoting sustainable local products.
Prior to arriving in Vietnam, participants completed an online learning week featuring specialized lectures on Vietnam's economy, innovation, ESG management trends, and a scientific seminar on artificial intelligence applications in sustainable engineering. These academic sessions laid the foundation for the hands on learning experiences and intercultural exchanges that continue throughout the program.
More than an international exchange program, HUTECH Global Camp 2026 provides students with valuable opportunities to strengthen critical thinking, teamwork, and adaptability in multicultural environments. Through initiatives like this, HUTECH continues to advance its internationalization strategy by expanding global learning opportunities and empowering students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
News: Hồng Loan
Photo: Team Media
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