In May 2024, a group of students from the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering (BEEE) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) had a study tour in Vietnam and concluded a fruitful three-day exchange programme with the University of Technology (UET) at the Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU).
The highly anticipated International Student Exchange Programme, designed to foster cooperation and collaboration in training, research, and student activities between the two universities, proved to be a transformative experience for the BEEE delegation.
During their time at VNU-UET, the PolyU students were warmly welcomed and immersed in the rich cultural and academic landscape of Vietnam. On the first day, they were introduced to the history, mission, and organizational structure of UET, followed by a comprehensive campus tour. The BEEE team then engaged in lively cultural exchange sessions, gaining valuable insights into Vietnamese traditions.
The second day was dedicated to cultural experiences, as the PolyU and VNU-UET students bonded over Vietnamese cuisine, folk games, and discussions on the differences between the two cultures. On the academic front, BEEE faculty shared their expertise in innovative teaching methods using virtual reality technology and emerging research areas.
The programme culminated with a technical tour of the EVN Tower, the headquarters of Vietnam Electricity Group, where the students had the opportunity to learn about the operational and technical aspects of the energy sector in Vietnam.
"This exchange has been an incredibly enriching experience for our students," said Dr Cheung Hiu Dan Hilda, an BEEE Instructor. "They have not only immersed themselves in Vietnamese culture and academia, but they have also forged meaningful connections with their peers at VNU-UET. These cross-cultural experiences are invaluable in preparing our students to become global citizens."
BEEE student Chan Chun Kit echoed these sentiments, expressing his gratitude for the warm hospitality and enthusiasm of the VNU-UET community. "The Vietnamese people have been incredibly welcoming, and the cultural activities have been a highlight of the trip. I've gained new experiences, met international friends, and learned about different approaches to learning and research. I look forward to future opportunities to return to VNU-UET."
The successful completion of the exchange programme is a testament to the commitment of both PolyU BEEE and VNU-UET to fostering international collaboration and providing their students with transformative learning experiences. The organizers of the event have expressed their desire to continue this fruitful partnership and explore further opportunities for cultural and academic exchange between the two institutions.
The photo gallery can be found here.
