DLR - On the afternoon of 28 November, Quy Nhon University held the closing ceremony of the “Seeds of Friendship 2025” programme and celebrated the National Day of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (2 December). The event carried a special meaning as it aimed to support Lao international students in their studies and daily life, while further nurturing the traditional friendship between the peoples of Viet Nam and Laos.

Over the years, “Seeds of Friendship” has become an annual programme jointly organised by Quy Nhon University and the Gia Lai Union of Friendship Organizations. The programme is designed to build a comprehensive support environment for Lao students during their study, training, and integration into the local community. Its activities focus on developing study skills, promoting cultural and sports exchange, enhancing Vietnamese language competence, and creating bridges that connect students of the two countries through practical, meaningful, and impactful experiences, thereby strengthening solidarity, friendship, and mutual understanding among Vietnamese and Lao students at Quy Nhon University.

Mr Cao Ky Nam, Deputy Head of the Department of Student Affairs and Enterprise Relations, delivered the programme’s summary report

Following the introduction of distinguished guests, Mr Cao Ky Nam, Deputy Head of the Department of Student Affairs and Enterprise Relations, presented the 2025 activity report for the “Seeds of Friendship” programme. The report highlighted notable achievements in supporting Lao students and demonstrated the University’s consistent and comprehensive accompaniment throughout the academic year. A variety of activities were implemented, most notably the celebration of the Lao traditional New Year Bunpimay, which recreated a space rich in Lao cultural identity right on campus, helping students far from home feel warmth and emotional attachment.

Several “Paired Progress” student pairs received Certificates of Merit for their remarkable progress in study and training

The “Paired Progress” model, with 27 Vietnamese–Lao student pairs, once again proved its effectiveness through regular group study, academic support, skills development, and cultural exchange. At faculty level, the “Mentoring for Lao Students” initiative was flexibly and substantively implemented, supporting students in their coursework, Vietnamese language practice, daily life guidance, and adaptation to a new living environment. In addition, the QNU Vietnamese Language Club, with more than 40 members, maintained regular activities, including speaking practice sessions, experiential events, themed meetings, and community connection, thereby providing a practical and effective Vietnamese language environment for Lao students.

Alongside academic activities, the University also facilitated three cultural field trips for Lao students to key local destinations such as the Centre for Scientific Discovery and ICISE, Quang Trung Museum, Cham tower complexes, Thi Nai Port, and Lang Song Church. These trips not only enriched their understanding of local history and culture but also strengthened bonds, broadened perspectives, and offered valuable real world experiences during their time studying in Viet Nam.

Lao students presented cultural performances showcasing the rich identity of their traditional arts

Lao students also left their mark in academic competitions and extracurricular movements. The “Viet–Lao Affection” team represented Quy Nhon University in the 2025 Central Region Final Round of the Vietnamese Speech Contest and received a Consolation Prize. In addition, they actively participated in many community oriented programmes such as the summer volunteer campaign, “Volunteer Saturday”, post storm No.13 recovery efforts, as well as various cultural and sports exchanges co organised by the Provincial Youth Union, Student Association, and the University. These diverse activities helped enhance soft skills, foster a sense of social responsibility, and affirmed the confidence and active integration of Lao students.

Speaking at the event, Mr Mai Thanh Thang, Chairman of the Gia Lai Union of Friendship Organizations, highly appreciated the efforts of Quy Nhon University in effectively implementing the “Seeds of Friendship 2025” programme. He emphasized that the programme not only creates a good learning environment for Lao students but also widely spreads humanistic values, mutual support, and the special solidarity between the two peoples. According to him, the chain of activities in academic support, cultural and sports exchange, and community engagement has built a solid foundation for Lao students to develop holistically and to gain greater confidence in their study journey and future plans.

Mr Mai Thanh Thang, Chairman of the Gia Lai Union of Friendship Organizations, addressed the event.

Mr Thang also expressed his belief that the knowledge, skills, and experiences Lao students acquire at Quy Nhon University will become valuable assets enabling them to contribute to their homeland’s development upon their return. On the occasion of the National Day of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (2 December), he extended his congratulations to all Lao students at the University, encouraging them to keep striving in their studies and to continue serving as “ambassadors of friendship” who help further cultivate the ever growing, evergreen solidarity between Viet Nam and Laos.

At the ceremony, the University presented Certificates of Merit to eight “Paired Progress” student pairs who had made significant improvements in their study and training in 2025. This recognition honoured their efforts in mutual support and in spreading the spirit of Viet–Lao solidarity within the academic environment. To mark the 50th anniversary of the National Day of the Lao PDR (2 December 1975 – 2 December 2025), representatives of the University together with local departments, agencies, and friendship organisations also presented gifts to Lao students, demonstrating deep care and affection for them throughout their study journey in Viet Nam.

Vietnamese and Lao delegates and students posed for commemorative photos

The “Seeds of Friendship” programme is led by the Gia Lai Union of Friendship Organizations and the Viet Nam–Laos Friendship Association in cooperation with Quy Nhon University on an annual basis. Sustained over many years, it has become an important bridge supporting Lao students in developing professional capacity and life skills, while expanding cultural exchange activities and strengthening the traditional Viet Nam–Laos friendship. With these achievements, “Seeds of Friendship” continues to stand out as a hallmark of people to people diplomacy, a testament to the close and enduring bond between the two neighbouring countries, and clear evidence of Quy Nhon University’s role in promoting international cooperation in education and training.

Bao Thuan

Vo Thien An