The awards ceremony took place at the Hungarian Embassy.
The highlight of the event was the presentation and discussion of the classic novel "The Stars of Eger" by author Géza Gárdonyi.
At the event, Dr. Helta Gyöngyi – a visiting lecturer at the Department of History, University of Social Sciences and Humanities – shared about the special literary value of "The Stars of Eger," a work that has been translated into 84 languages, adapted into a film in 1968, and voted "Hungary's Most Popular Book" in 2005.
Dr. Helta Gyöngyi shared her thoughts on Géza Gárdonyi's work "The Stars of Eger".
From an interdisciplinary perspective, Dr. Tran Thanh Viet – Head of the Literature Department at the High School for Gifted Students in Social Sciences and Humanities – helped students recognize the similarities between Hungarian and Vietnamese history through the heroic and tragic achievements of previous generations.
Dr. Tran Thanh Viet shared:
The event not only helps students explore diverse perspectives on the culture and history of the two countries, but also creates a solid foundation for them to confidently enter the competition, where their imagination and creativity are given wings.
The competition was organized in a systematic and professional manner.
Following the opening ceremony, the competition received enthusiastic participation from teachers and students throughout the school. The school's student union (with the Book Club as the main organizer), the Literature Department, and the school office collaborated closely in the organization of the event.
In particular, the school invited experts to assist in guiding students in adapting novels into comics, helping them to systematically approach visual storytelling. The judging panel, comprised of experts with in-depth knowledge in literature, history, and art, worked impartially with clear and unanimous evaluation criteria, reflecting the seriousness and dedication to the competition.
Dr. Dieu Lan Phuong (Vice Principal of the High School for Gifted Students in Social Sciences and Humanities) poses for a photo with students.
Also at the seminar, the organizing committee awarded prizes to the best entries in the competition. These works not only demonstrated subtle and creative adaptation skills but also showed the students' deep understanding of Hungarian culture and history.
The winning team
According to the Hungarian Ambassador, this was a particularly meaningful activity. The Ambassador emphasized that the Embassy does not always have the opportunity to welcome high school students – young people full of energy and enthusiasm – like this. He expressed his hope for more collaborative events with the High School for Social Sciences and Humanities in the future, contributing to promoting cultural exchange between the two countries.
The Ambassador and the school representative exchanged gifts.
The "Stars of Eger" comic book adaptation competition has truly become a vibrant and sustainable cultural bridge between Vietnam and Hungary, opening up opportunities for Vietnamese students to explore, learn about, and further appreciate Hungary and its people through the vivid pages of the book.