Strengthening Vietnam-US relations through cultural and educational exchanges.The event was attended by Ms. Courtney Beale, Deputy Ambassador of the U.S. Diplomatic Mission in Vietnam, representatives from the Embassy, leaders of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, lecturers and students from various educational institutions nationwide. This is one of the important activities contributing to promoting cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries in the context of increasingly developing bilateral relations, especially after the two countries upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023.
At the opening ceremony, Associate Professor Dr. Dang Thi Thu Huong - Vice Rector of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities - emphasized the special significance of the series of events as they take place in 2025 - a year that coincides with three important historical milestones for Vietnam and the United States. The relationship between the two countries has undergone a long journey from conflict to cooperation, from differences to mutual respect and understanding. The development of bilateral relations is clearly demonstrated through extensive cooperation in education, research, and people-to-people exchanges - areas in which the University of Social Sciences and Humanities plays a pioneering role.
Associate Professor Dr. Dang Thi Thu Huong emphasized the significance of the event in contributing to deepening the cooperative relationship between Vietnam and the United States.
Ms. Courtney Beale, Deputy Ambassador of the U.S. Diplomatic Mission in Vietnam, expressed her pleasure in partnering with the University of Social Sciences and Humanities in organizing the competition for students. She emphasized that this activity not only creates a vibrant atmosphere but also helps students gain a deeper understanding of the United States as the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary.
According to her, exploring and exchanging cultures contributes to enhancing mutual understanding and laying the foundation for future Vietnam-US relations, especially since the students, representing the younger generation, will be the ones shaping bilateral cooperation.
Ms. Courtney Beale interacted with students on stage at the opening ceremony of the series of events focusing on American Studies.
Immediately after the opening ceremony, the student competition called "Exploring America 250" attracted the attention of students from four universities: the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi (USSH), Hanoi University (HANU), the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV), and the Academy of Journalism and Communication (AJC).
The competing teams participated in three parts: a general and in-depth study of the United States; the application of knowledge of history, culture, and politics; and an English speech on Vietnam-US relations. The competition not only tested knowledge but also encouraged students to demonstrate critical thinking, analytical skills, teamwork abilities, and fluent English.
In the final results, the Hanoi University team excellently won First Prize thanks to their outstanding performance in both knowledge and public speaking. Second Prize went to the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam for their consistent performance and good competition strategy. Third Prize was shared by the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, and the Academy of Journalism and Communication, recognizing the efforts and impressive performances of their contestants.
The program's activities will be followed by a training course on American Studies for university students and faculty, to be held on December 5-6, 2025.
Students from four universities participated in the "Learn About America" competition.
The University of Social Sciences and Humanities and its journey of over 20 years in building a foundation for research and training in American Studies.Known as a leading institution for social sciences and humanities in Vietnam, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities has developed its American Studies program since 2003 with the support of the US Embassy and international organizations. In 2004, the Department of American Studies was officially established, responsible for curriculum development, research expansion, and academic collaboration with domestic and international institutions.
For over two decades, the program has made significant contributions to the formation of the American Studies research community in Vietnam, spreading to many major universities such as the University of Social Sciences and Humanities - Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, Hue University, Da Nang University, Hanoi University, and many other training institutions. Besides its teaching and research role, the university also serves as an important policy advisory unit, with a team of experts knowledgeable about major international partners, including the United States.
The University of Social Sciences and Humanities is honored to collaborate with the U.S. Embassy in organizing a series of events to exchange ideas and learn about American studies. The 2025 American Studies series demonstrates the University of Social Sciences and Humanities' ongoing efforts to promote international academic exchange and contribute to the development of American Studies in Vietnam. These activities, implemented with the support of the U.S. Embassy, are of practical significance, expanding the academic space for students and faculty, and creating an important foundation for cultural and educational cooperation between the two countries.
As a leading training and research center, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities continues to affirm its role in nurturing a generation of young people with global thinking, understanding the culture, history, and politics of countries around the world, and contributing to strengthening Vietnam-US relations in the new era of development.
The press reported on the event:
Vietnam News Agency:Launching a series of events on US studies.
Vietnam News Agency - News and photos:https://vnanet.vn/vi/tin-anh/tin-thoi-su-trong-nuoc-1/khoi-dong-chuoi-su-kien-ve-nghien-cuu-hoa-ky-8432369.html
Vietnam News Agency:Vietnamese students enthusiastically participate in a competition to learn about the United States.
Education and Times Newspaper: Promoting educational exchange between Vietnam and the United States.
Hanoi New Newspaper: Opening of a series of activities on American Studies at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities.
Policy and Life:
Launching a series of events on US studies.
