Aug 26, 2025

On August 25, 2025, the University of Languages and International Studies – Vietnam National University, Hanoi (ULIS–VNU) held the opening ceremony of the Vietnamese Language and Cultural Experience Program for students from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and American Councils (USA).

Attending the ceremony on behalf of ULIS–VNU were Vice President Ha Le Kim Anh; representatives from relevant units, including the Faculty of Vietnamese Language and Culture & Southeast Asian Studies, the Office of International Cooperation and Development, the Office of Academic Affairs and Learner Support, the Office of Student Affairs and Support, along with student volunteers of the program. Representing the partners were Mr. Brendan Ryan, Vietnam-based Director of the Vietnamese Language Program at American Councils, and participating students from the United States.

The ceremony began with cultural performances showcasing the rich identity of Vietnamese traditional arts.

In her opening remarks, Vice President Ha Le Kim Anh emphasized that this was a special program for ULIS in general and for the Faculty of Vietnamese Language and Culture & Southeast Asian Studies in particular. This was the first course organized after the university’s enrollment ceremony for first-year students of cohort QH.2025, as well as for the Vietnamese Language and Vietnamese Culture major (Vietnamese as a Foreign Language program), marking an important milestone in the Faculty’s development. Although a short-term program, the course contributes meaningfully to the growth of this newly established academic discipline through its experiential learning components

The Vietnamese Language and Cultural Experience Program for students from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and American Councils is scheduled to conclude in December 2025. At the event, Mr. Tran Huu Tri, Head of the Faculty of Vietnamese Language and Culture & Southeast Asian Studies, highlighted the distinctive features of this year’s program, particularly its innovative teaching approach that integrates theory with experiential activities. Each class includes cultural games, while weekly field trips are organized to enhance students’ real-life learning experiences. For the first time, the University has also implemented an open selection process for local host families, offering international students the opportunity to experience everyday Vietnamese life. In addition, more than 140 ULIS students have registered to participate as program supporters, serving as “cultural bridges” accompanying American students in both academic activities and cultural exchange. The Head of the Faculty expressed his hope that this close companionship would help both Vietnamese and international students better understand one another, learn together, and grow together.

Continuing the program, Mr. Brendan Ryan, Vietnam-based Director of the Vietnamese Language Program at American Councils, expressed his strong confidence in ULIS’s teaching methods and training quality. He also extended his sincere thanks to the University for its close cooperation, which has created meaningful learning and exchange opportunities for students from both sides.

At the ceremony, student representative Harding Adam shared his enthusiasm for the Vietnamese language, which he described as closely connected to a rich culture and warm, friendly people. He expressed his gratitude for the valuable opportunity to participate in the program and conveyed his hope to have more chances to learn about Vietnamese culture and to work in Vietnam in the future.

The ceremony concluded with a commemorative photo session and the presentation of souvenirs.

Photo highlights:

Ngọc Hà/ĐSTT