14 memorable days of Ibaraki Christian University (IC) students, Japan at HUFLIT

HUFLIT welcomed a delegation of 12 students and two lecturers, Dr. Naomi Ueno – Former Principal of IC, Professor of Modern English Department and Dr. Yukikazu Obata – Associate Professor of Primary Education Department to visit and experience the academic culture in Vietnam.

During the two weeks, the Japanese students had the opportunity to explore the unique features of Vietnam through field trips and academic exchange activities.

The delegation’s journey spanned provinces and cities in Vietnam, including Tay Ninh, Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Tien Giang, Binh Duong and Ho Chi Minh City. Each place has its own cultural identity, unique lifestyle and profound history. The trip was not only an opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural relics, but also helped the delegation feel the harmony between tradition and modernity, clearly expressed through each locality, people and unique cultural values. The companionship of lecturers and students of the Faculty of Tourism – Hospitality and the Faculty of Oriental Languages ​​and Cultures HUFLIT added vitality and richness to the trip, bringing multi-dimensional perspectives on the heritage, culture and people of the localities. The students actively shared their knowledge, actively contributed to the exchanges and discussions, thereby creating a vibrant learning space and developing a spirit of cultural respect between young people of the two countries.

Not only sightseeing and experiencing, IC students also participated in research activities and group discussions with four topics: cuisine, destinations, culture and Vietnamese costumes. This is an opportunity for them to better understand the country and people of Vietnam, the similarities and differences compared to Japanese culture. In particular, lessons on traditional Vietnamese culture, trying on Ao Dai or participating in classes with HUFLIT students left many unforgettable impressions.

Sharing about the trip, student Takeda Runa said: “This trip opened up a new world for me. I was very impressed with the hospitality and rich culture of Vietnam.” Meanwhile, student Nakayama Kano expressed: “From the first days we arrived in Vietnam, we received a warm welcome from teachers and HUFLIT students. Although there were times when we encountered difficulties due to language and cultural differences, thanks to everyone’s perseverance and thoughtful care, I quickly integrated.” “The time meeting you was very meaningful to me. We talked together, ate delicious food together and participated in many interesting activities. I hope to see you all again in Japan!”, student Lam Oanh, Faculty of Oriental Languages ​​and Cultures said.

HUFLIT representative, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Vu – Vice Principal, shared: “The program is not only an opportunity to study and exchange but also opens up prospects for cooperation between the two schools in the future. We hope to continue to organize many similar programs so that students from both countries can connect and learn from each other.”

At the end of the program, students from both schools not only gained more knowledge about culture and society but also built strong, close relationships. The smiles and memorable memories throughout the journey are the clearest evidence for the success of this cultural exchange program. For HUFLIT, this is not only a simple exchange activity but also an important bridge in promoting international educational cooperation, opening up many learning and development opportunities for students from both countries in the future.

Images and activities in the program: