On January 7, 2026, Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment (HCMUNRE) organized a Student Exchange Program with Aomori High School, Japan. The program was one of the University’s meaningful educational external affairs activities, aiming to strengthen international cooperation, promote academic and cultural exchange, and contribute to enhancing the quality of education as well as international integration for the University’s students.
Figure 1 – Overview of the student exchange program between Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment and Aomori High School, Japan
The program was designed with the objective of establishing an international learning and exchange environment, thereby expanding opportunities for students from both institutions to engage, exchange, and share experiences in learning and research, as well as to deepen their understanding of the culture and society of each country. Through direct exchange activities, students were able to develop a global mindset, enhance their international integration capacity, and improve their adaptability in the context of an increasingly globalized education and labor market.
Figure 2 – Students from both institutions participating in academic exchange activities
One of the core components of the program was to enhance students’ presentation skills and academic communication abilities. Student groups were encouraged to present academic topics, share perspectives, and participate in group discussions, thereby developing their skills in expression, critical thinking, and collaboration in a multicultural environment. This activity not only contributed to improving academic communication competencies but also helped students build confidence and initiative in their learning and research processes.
Figure 3 – Student presentations and group discussions from both institutions
In addition to the academic dimension, the program also emphasized cultural exchange and the development of teamwork skills among students. Through experiential activities, cultural exchange sessions, and mixed-group teamwork, students had opportunities to gain deeper insights into cultural identities, customs, traditions, and learning styles of Japan and Vietnam. This was an important factor in fostering a spirit of cooperation, respect for diversity, and the ability to work effectively in an international environment.
Furthermore, the student exchange program was oriented toward themes of sustainable development, in line with the education and research directions of Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment. Learning and discussion activities focused on raising students’ awareness of sustainable development, environmental protection, and social responsibility, thereby enabling students to engage in in-depth learning environments that integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application.
Figure 4 – Program review, exchange, and orientation toward sustainable development cooperation
Through the Student Exchange Program with Aomori High School, Japan, Ho Chi Minh City University of Natural Resources and Environment expects to continue expanding international educational cooperation activities, contributing to the enhancement of training quality and the comprehensive development of students’ capacities, while also establishing a solid foundation for long-term cooperative programs toward sustainable development and deeper international integration in the future.