CAM ON, VIETNAM! 🇻🇳
MABUHAY PHILIPPINES! 🇵🇭
Eight students from the Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) and Bachelor of Technical Vocational Teacher-Education (BTVTEd) Programs of Sorsogon State University – Bulan Campus completed the 20-day academic and cultural exchange at Kien Giang University, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam, from April 13 to May 3, 2025.
The exchange students, accompanied by Mr. Jopet Vincent B. Medalla, were Mr. Erwin Formento, Mr. Mel-jhun Evangelista, Ms. Rhyz April Gueta, Ms. Mariel Angela Rodrigo, Ms. Lougen Lozada, Mr. Kharl Andrei Hizon, Mr. Josh Bayoca and Mr. Gabriel Joash De Gala.
During the program, they engaged in various activities that sought to enhance their multicultural awareness and sensitivity, with focus on the context of their fields of studies. The students attended Vietnamese classes where they learned about the instructional processes and education system in the country. They also interacted with their fellow students who guided them throughout the program, providing them more authentic experiences of the vibrant Vietnamese culture and traditions.
The students also visited several high schools, government institutions and other colleges. They also had opportunities to interact with the community. They also enjoyed the sports facilities of the university.
One of the highlights of the program was the Cultural Exchange Day held on April 27, 2025 where both Filipino and Vietnamese students performed some of their respective traditional songs and folk dances. Specifically, the Filipino students performed the song “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko” and Pantomina sa Tinampo. Prior to this program, they joined an amazing race game where they were grouped with Vietnamese university and high school students. The game featured some of Vietnamese and Filipino cultural icons.
KGU students also prepared various Vietnamese traditional cuisines and allowed the Filipino students to learn and personally experience the preparation of such food.
Before flying back to the Philippines, the students were also able to visit the progressive Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, especially its famous tourist spots such as the Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market, Bookstreet, and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Interestingly, the program duration coincided with the 50th Anniversary of the Liberation of Southern Vietnam on April 30, providing the Filipino students the chance to witness the passion of the Vietnamese people in celebrating their rich history and upholding the principles of their ancestors.
This program reinforces the academic partnership between SorSU-Bulan Campus and Kien Giang University which began in 2023, with the faculty exchange program.
Sorsogon State University – Bulan Campus
