Continuing its commitment to internationalizing the learning environment, the Vietnam-Japan Institute of Technology (VJIT) at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH) organized the Vietnam - Japan Youth Forum 2026 on March 3, creating a space for idea exchange and joint concept development for collaborative projects between students of the two countries.
The forum was held as part of the Japan - Vietnam Festival in Ho Chi Minh City. In his opening remarks, Mr. Nguyen Xuan Hung, Director of VJIT, emphasized that the forum serves as an annual meeting point for Vietnamese and Japanese students and a launching platform for exchanging perspectives, sharing initiatives, and developing projects with practical applications. As Vietnam - Japan relations continue to expand, global thinking, cross cultural collaboration skills, and a proactive problem-solving mindset have become an essential skill set for the younger generation.
Mr. Nguyen Xuan Hung highlighted the role and significance of the forum for students
A representative of the Japanese student delegation expressed enthusiasm about continuing to work alongside VJIT in academic activities and joint projects. The delegation also highly appreciated the thorough preparation, strong teamwork, and open communication demonstrated by HUTECH students. The Japanese participants came from prestigious universities such as The University of Tokyo, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, Waseda University, and Sophia University.
A representative of the Japanese student delegation expressed enthusiasm about continuing to work alongside VJIT in academic activities and joint projects
The leadership of the Institute and the Japanese student delegation exchanged commemorative gifts
This year’s forum focused on two main themes: strengthening connections between Vietnamese and Japanese students and promoting behavioral change related to environmental issues within universities. Through presentations and group discussions, students candidly assessed the current situation of waste sorting in Vietnamese educational settings. They noted that waste bins are not clearly separated, the final waste treatment process does not create a visible impact, and user habits often prioritize convenience. Based on these observations, the group proposed an approach centered on changing young people’s behavior and awareness rather than relying solely on symbolic solutions.
The forum brought together six VJIT students, two students from Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics and Finance, and six Japanese students
Alongside environmental discussions, a youth connection model between the two countries was developed based on a combination of online and offline engagement. Students proposed organizing regular online discussions on culture, lifestyle, music, cuisine, and films, developing a Vietnam - Japan buddies model to maintain ongoing exchanges, and arranging in person gatherings and joint project implementation whenever possible. This approach is expected to ensure that the connection extends beyond a single event and becomes a long-term journey.
At the forum, students from both sides also agreed on their plan to participate in the Japan-Vietnam Festival, including the seminar on Developing Human Resources for a Sustainable Future and Towards an Olympic City Vision at the Majestic Hotel, 01 Dong Khoi Street, Sai Gon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, at 3:00 PM on March 6, 2026, and the Japan Vietnam Festival on March 7, 2026, at 23 9 Park. The student group will deliver a 15 minute presentation at the seminar and a one-minute speech on stage at the opening ceremony, introducing their cooperation orientation and key initiatives.
The forum provided a space for students to sharpen their skills, experiment with project based thinking, and enhance their ability to work in an international environment
The action roadmap for 2026 to 2027 has been clearly outlined, including organizing online discussions at the beginning of the year, implementing projects in Vietnam, continuing project activities in Japan, and aiming for a presentation at the 12th Japan - Vietnam Festival. Ice breaker activities, teamwork, critical discussions, and idea refinement took place in a dynamic atmosphere, reflecting students’ proactiveness, cross cultural coordination skills, and confidence.
News: Mỹ Lệ
Photo: Thành Phúc
Communication Center