Highlights of the “Lincoln University Student Exchange Program at UEH 2024”

21 Dec, 2024

An explosive season of international exchange between LUxUEH (09/12/2024 - 19/12/2024) has officially concluded! The University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) proudly partnered with 18 students and delegates from Lincoln University (New Zealand) and UEH students to create a successful journey of memorable highlights featuring unique learning activities, excursions, cultural exchanges, and explorations.

The group photo of Lincoln University delegates and students participating in the LUxUEH 2024 program

Welcoming Lincoln University Students

Over 11 days, from December 9, 2024, to December 19, 2024, the international student exchange program between the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) and Lincoln University took place with numerous exciting activities. These ranged from welcoming international students and organizing ceremonies to company visits and field trips in Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Tre, Cu Chi, Thu Duc, Binh Duong, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau. This was an opportunity for students from both universities to learn from one another, exchange cultures, and strengthen the friendship between Vietnam and New Zealand.

Lincoln University and UEH students at the opening ceremony (UEH)

December 9, 2024: Welcoming Lincoln University Students in Ho Chi Minh City

The Lincoln University students arrived in Ho Chi Minh City and were warmly welcomed by students, professors, and lecturers from the School of Banking. This began an exciting exchange journey, opening up opportunities for international students to get acquainted with a new learning environment and prepare for the upcoming cultural exchange activities.

December 10, 2024: Opening Ceremony and Cultural Exchange Program at UEH

The opening ceremony at UEH began with vibrant musical performances from the School of Banking and a welcome speech from the School of Banking, College of Business (COB-UEH). Students were introduced to the culture, history, and economy of Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam through presentations by UEH students. In contrast, Lincoln University students showcased the culture and economy of New Zealand.

UEH students introduced the history, culture, traditions, and economy of Ho Chi Minh City

In addition, participants at the opening ceremony had the chance to experience a Vietnamese cultural exchange activity - painting traditional conical hats under the guidance of artist Cam Thuyen.

UEH students and Lincoln students painted on conical hats together

For many, it was their first time learning about traditional Vietnamese products. This lively exchange activity left a lasting impression on the participants.

Lincoln University students enthusiastically showcased their painted conical hats

In the afternoon, students had a campus tour of UEH’s B Campus and N Campus, followed by several iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, providing an authentic and intimate view of the city’s life, people, and development.

UEH students and Lincoln students visited UEH campuses B and N together

December 11, 2024: Company Visits in Ho Chi Minh City

On the third day, students visited Mirae Asset Securities, one of Vietnam's top five securities companies, where they had the opportunity to learn about the operations of the typical brokerage company, investment strategies, the financial market, and its role in Vietnam's financial and economic sectors.

Students actively participated in learning activities at Mirae Asset Securities, with a presentation by Mr. Nguyen Tien Dung, Head of Wealth Management, Responsible for business development of the Retail Division at the company

Next was the ACB Learning Center, where students learned about ACB Bank, its workflows, achievements, and sustainable development strategies. This activity offered a comprehensive view of how a central Vietnamese bank operates and thrives.

Delegates and Students visited the ACB Learning Center

December 12, 2024: Field Trip to the Mekong Delta

On the fourth day, students from Lincoln University and UEH had the opportunity to explore the unique culture and lifestyle of the Mekong Delta through an exciting trip to Ben Tre, a region renowned for its picturesque nature and traditional coconut industry. Through this visit, students could learn about harvesting and producing coconut-based products. They also discovered the artistic value of intricate handcrafted items. Additionally, they enjoyed specialty dishes from the Mekong Delta, showcasing the rich and distinctive flavors of the Southwest region of Vietnam.

Students engaging in cultural exchange in Ben Tre

December 13, 2024: Further Company Visits in Ho Chi Minh City

On the sixth day of the program, students had the opportunity to learn about Quang Trung Software City (QTSC), the most significant tech hub in Vietnam. During this visit, they explored QTSC's activities, advanced technology products, and the park's crucial role in driving the development of the digital field and fostering innovation in Vietnam.

The delegates and students visited Concentrix (Vietnam) in QTSC

The delegates and students visited Edunet in QTSC

Professor Christopher Gan gave a thank you speech at QTSC

This tour offers international students a firsthand look at Ho Chi Minh City's thriving high-tech industry.

Students visited and learned at Quang Trung Software City (QTSC)

In the afternoon, the next stop was Nam Tan Uyen Industrial Park, one of the key economic zones in Binh Duong Province and a top choice for many domestic and international investors.

LU students at PGT - Reclaimed company in Nam Tan Uyen Industrial Park

During the visit, students were introduced to the scale and vision of meeting the growing demands of consumers, as well as an overview of the sustainable journey of producing wooden furniture adhering to SDG standards at PGT-Reclaimed. This provided valuable insights and skills in the context of global integration.

The delegates and students visited Nam Tan Uyen Industrial Park

December 14, 2024: Exploring Cu Chi Tunnels

On the fifth day, the group continued exploring the history and culture of the Cu Chi Tunnels, a significant resistance base during the Vietnam War. The visit was combined with unique nature-based activities on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City, providing insights into the history and daily lives of Vietnamese soldiers and civilians during the war while highlighting the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people.

The group explored the history and culture of the Cu Chi Tunnels

December 15-16, 2024: Field Trip to Ba Ria-Vung Tau

On December 15, 2024, Lincoln University and UEH delegates and students continued their exploration of Ba Ria-Vung Tau. The group visited prominent landmarks in Vung Tau, immersed themselves in the coastal atmosphere, and explored the unique culture and lifestyle of the local community.

Delegates and Students explored the process of brewing fish sauce in Vung Tau

Students experience cacao groves, learn about cultivation, and witness the bean-to-bar chocolate-making process in the factory at Binon Cacao Park. This was an opportunity for them to relax, connect, and enjoy the natural beauty after the days of learning and exploring businesses.

Students visited cocoa gardens at Binon Cacao Park, Ba Ria Vung Tau

Students experienced making chocolate at Binon Cacao Park

December 17, 2024: Visit to Yakult Vietnam in Binh Duong

On December 17, 2024, Lincoln University students had the opportunity to visit Yakult Company in Vietnam - Singapore industrial park. In the afternoon, the students prepared business plans summarizing the knowledge, experiences, and lessons gained during their visit and cultural exchanges in Vietnam. This was a crucial step for students to systematize what they had learned and showcase their understanding and personal insights through project reports while preparing thoroughly for the program's final presentation. This productive day marked the end of a meaningful journey of learning and experiences in Vietnam.

Delegates and students were visiting and engaging at Yakult Vietnam

December 18, 2024: Closing Ceremony and Final Reports

The final day of the LUxUEH international exchange program concluded with a formal closing ceremony, marking the end of a meaningful 10-day journey between the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) and Lincoln University. The students presented their business plans and reports, sharing insights and lessons learned in Vietnam. The reports covered knowledge gained from company visits, cultural explorations, and personal perspectives on Vietnam's economic and social development. This was an opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and critical thinking while sharing their key takeaways with lecturers and fellow participants.

LU students shared their business plans based on their experiences and learnings through company visits, field trips, and cultural exchange programs in Vietnam

The program concluded with thank-you speeches from representatives of both universities, expressing appreciation for the efforts and achievements of all participants. Students were also awarded certificates of completion as a testament to their successful exchange journey. This marked the end of the 11-day field trips and cultural exchange programs in Vietnam and laid the foundation for lasting partnerships between Vietnamese and New Zealand students, fostering future collaboration and cultural exchange.

Prof. Christopher Gan, a representative from Lincoln University, gave a thank-you speech at the closing ceremony

The international exchange program between the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) and Lincoln University (New Zealand) 2024 has successfully concluded, leaving a profound impression on all participants. This program was a valuable opportunity for delegates and students to learn and experience diverse fields such as economics, culture, and society. Still, it was also an essential bridge for strengthening the friendship and sustainable collaboration between the two universities.

We hope this exchange will not only leave unforgettable memories but also mark the beginning of new opportunities for international cooperation. With valuable lessons and experiences, the LUxUEH 2024 international exchange program will become a significant milestone in the student's academic and personal development journey while spreading the message of cultural connection and global collaboration.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the lecturers, businesses, esteemed guests, and students who participated and contributed to making this journey truly meaningful. May the experiences in Vietnam remain as beautiful memories in everyone's hearts.