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UEFers connect cultures, broaden international vision with Singaporean students

03/18/2025

In an increasingly connected world, where cultural exchange is more dynamic than ever, understanding and respecting differences has become the key for young people to confidently integrate into the global community. Beyond textbooks, practical experiences serve as valuable opportunities for UEFers to broaden their perspectives and explore new cultural values from diverse backgrounds.
MARCH 17, the International Institute in collaboration with International Exchange Friends club (IEF) organized a “Cultural Exchange Session” with the Singaporean student delegation of YMCA VIET NAM SOCIAL CO.,LTD.

UEFers enrich knowledge and expand diverse cultural values through a meaningful cultural exchange event

The event honorably had the presence of Dr. Do Huu Nguyen Loc, UEF Vice President; Dr. Nguyen Kim Thoa, Deputy Director of UEF International Institute; Ms. Phan Ly Nguyen Trinh, Head of Student Services of International Institute, together with other Institute members.
Representing Republic Polytechnic Singapore (School of Engineering) were Mrs. Dong Minh Thu, Representative of YMCA Vietnam, along with Projects Manager representatives and numerous students.

Organizer’s representatives presented gifts to YMCA Viet Nam

At the beginning of the program, friends from Singapore were introduced to an overview of UEF and IEF – a club that brings together UEFers passionate about international exchange and proficient in foreign languages. Following that, students from both countries had the opportunity to explore Vietnamese regional cuisine, from Northern dishes like pho and bun cha to Central specialties like bun bo Hue - Hue style beef noodles, and Southern delights such as ca loc nuong trui - grilled snakehead fish.
A major highlight of the event was an impressive fashion show featuring traditional Vietnamese attire such as ao dai, ao tu than, and ao ba ba, etc. Seeing these garments up close and learning the stories behind them, international students couldn’t hide their excitement. The performance became even more lively when everyone joined in dancing to the song “See Tinh”, breaking down all barriers and creating unforgettable moments.

UEFers confidently performed and introduced traditional Vietnamese costumes

While cuisine and traditional attire provided an overview of Vietnamese culture, the charm of street life offered the international students a more immersive experience of the local rhythm.
At the event, students from both countries explored Vietnam’s unique street coffee culture – from the familiar ca phe bet style - drinking coffee while sitting in the bare ground, to distinctive coffee variations such as salted coffee (ca phe muoi), egg coffee (ca phe trung), and coconut coffee (ca phe dua). Additionally, traditional folk games like banh dua were recreated in a lively manner.

Singaporean students enjoy "trying out" the bamboo jacks

One of the highlights of the program was the group discussion session, “Vietnam-Singapore Cultural Fair,” where students exchanged insights on topics such as cuisine, culture, and music. This was not only an opportunity for UEFers to practice their foreign language skills but also a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the similarities and differences between the two cultures.

Students from both countries explore the similarities and differences between cultures

The program concluded with many cherished memories, fostering new friendships and paving the way for future exchange projects. With its meaningful impact, the Cultural Exchange Session has created valuable opportunities for students to develop a global mindset, embrace international integration, and further affirm UEF’s dynamic and modern learning environment.

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