The competition is part of the 2026 Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Week, aiming to raise awareness among young people about the role, significance, and prospects of Mekong sub-regional cooperation in the context of increasingly deep regional and international integration. At the same time, it serves as a valuable academic and exchange forum, contributing to the development of analytical thinking, research skills, and presentation abilities for students.
Associate Professor Bui Thanh Nam - Secretary of the Party Committee of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, delivered the opening speech for the competition.
Ms. Nguyen Bich Thuy - Deputy Director of the Economic Diplomacy Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Mr. Thường Cửu Thanh - Counselor and Minister Plenipotentiary of the Chinese Embassy in Vietnam
Participating in the competition, student teams went through three rounds with diverse content, including general knowledge tests, case studies, and public speaking. In each round, students demonstrated meticulous preparation, solid knowledge, and critical thinking skills in approaching issues in the Mekong region, from existing cooperation mechanisms to development challenges and opportunities.
In particular, the public speaking competition left a strong impression on the judges and audience. The participating teams presented rich content, offered in-depth solutions, and displayed confident and coherent presentation styles. Many opinions focused on analyzing prominent regional issues and proposed practical cooperation approaches to enhance the effectiveness of linkages among countries in the Mekong sub-region.
At the end of the competition, the Organizing Committee awarded the first prize to the team from the Academy of Journalism and Communication; the second prize went to the team from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities; and the third prize was awarded to the team from Hanoi University.
The competing teams demonstrated excellence in various areas of learning about the Mekong Subregional Cooperation.
Beyond being just an academic competition, the contest also provides an opportunity for university students to interact, learn, and broaden their understanding of the region. Through exchanges and debates, students have had the chance to access diverse perspectives, thereby developing interdisciplinary thinking and enhancing their ability to analyze regional issues in the context of globalization.
The Mekong River is not only a vital natural resource but also a lifeline connecting the history, culture, and livelihoods of millions of people in the six countries through which it flows. Therefore, strengthening cooperation within the subregion is of practical significance for achieving sustainable development, ensuring water security, and promoting the shared prosperity of the region.
The continued organization of the "Understanding Mekong Subregional Cooperation" competition at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities for many consecutive years demonstrates the university's proactive role in promoting academic activities related to regional and international issues. This further affirms the university's commitment to practical-oriented training, contributing to the development of high-quality human resources with integration capabilities and social responsibility.
