The 2023 summer course is themed “
Hanoi and the Red River Basin: Development, Climate Change Response, and Urban Living RightsThe "International Studies Program" organized by the University of Social Sciences and Humanities in collaboration with the University of Virginia (USA) took place from July 15th to August 12th, 2023. Notably, nine students from the Faculty of International Studies, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, were selected to participate in the program alongside international students. This was a valuable opportunity for them to interact with international students, improve their English skills, and broaden their learning opportunities in a multicultural environment.
Presentation by international students during the summer course at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi.
Student groups presented the results of their learning reports at the final class session of the course at VNU-USSH.
VNU-USSH students confidently participate in presentations in English alongside international students. With the guidance and support of Professor Spencer Phillip and Dr. Ngo Huong from the Department of International Studies, University of Virginia, along with lecturers from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, the students explored and researched ecological, social, and economic issues within the ecosystem and geography of Hanoi, located in the Red River basin.
The course offers hands-on experience through projects and applied research using GIS tools, system modeling, and quantitative and qualitative research, guided by senior lecturers from two universities and experts from organizations in Vietnam.
During nearly a month of study, students researched diverse topics such as: History, architecture, archaeology of Hanoi - Red River Basin, urban development and planning, climate change, river basin transport management, open space development and access, solid waste management and water resource management, urban housing and migrant labor, communication in development, etc.
International students were also very interested in the field trips to Ha Long and Moc Chau to research the topics of "Sustainable Tourism, Ocean Waste Management" and the project "Clean Water, Development and Culture of Ethnic Minorities, Sustainable Agriculture".
Students and faculty at the University of Virginia (USA) love and enjoy wearing the traditional Vietnamese ao dai dress in class at VNU-USSH.
Professor Hoang Anh Tuan, Rector of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, expressed his delight at the success of the Summer Course 2023 and the opportunity for further cooperation between the two universities. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2023 summer course for University of Virginia students, Professor Hoang Anh Tuan, Rector of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, highly praised the learning spirit of the University of Virginia students as well as the students of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities during this course. Professor Hoang Anh Tuan used the Vietnamese proverb "a day creates a bond" to describe the close relationship between VNU-USSH students and University of Virginia students over the past month. The many fond memories shared between the University of Virginia students and the students of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, filled the closing ceremony with emotion.
The summer course fostered a strong bond between students from two universities in the United States and Vietnam.
The journey of exploring the history and culture of Vietnam and Hanoi at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, for students from the University of Virginia (USA) has concluded, but it has opened up opportunities for understanding and cultural exchange between students of the two universities, as well as opportunities for cooperation. Moreover, the image of talented Vietnamese students, hospitable and friendly Vietnamese people, and the beautiful S-shaped country has been spread to friends around the world!
Here are some images showcasing the learning atmosphere and the Closing Ceremony of the 2023 Summer Course for University of Virginia (USA) students at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Hanoi:
The press reported on the event:
Vietnam Student Newspaper: Closing Ceremony of the 2023 Summer Course for University of Virginia Students (USA)
