CULTURAL EXCHANGE BETWEEN STUDENTS OF THE CANTHO UNIVERSITY ELITE  HIGH SCHOOL AND SPRINGWOOD SCHOOL (UK)

Written by Nguyen Thi Ngoc Ven

English interpretation by Gia Khang (A2K11)

On November 1st, 2024, Cantho University Elite High School was honored to welcome a group of students from Springwood School (United Kingdom) for a cultural exchange program. This event was not only an opportunity for students from both schools to learn about each other’s education systems, cultures, and lifestyles but also a chance to build long-lasting international partnerships through a series of engaging and meaningful activities.

Participating in Classes at Cantho University Elite High School

One of the program's highlights was the opportunity for Springwood students and teachers to participate in classes at Cantho University Elite High School. This was a fantastic chance for the British students to experience the teaching method and learning environments in Vietnam, gaining a deeper understanding and broadening their perspective on Vietnam's education system.

Vietnam Cultural Exchange

Besides academics, the Springwood students and Cantho University Elite High School students engaged in various Vietnamese cultural exchange activities. The students had the opportunity to experience traditional games such as hopscotch, sack races, and walking on stilts. These activities not only brought joy and laughter but also gave the visitors a deeper appreciation of Vietnam's traditional and cultural values.

Traditional Costume Show

A standout activity of the program was the presentation of traditional Vietnamese costumes performed by Cantho University Elite High School’s students. The spirit of national attire from across the country was showcased thoroughly, including áo tứ thân, áo dài ngũ thân, áo nhật bình, áo bà ba, traditional áo dài and Hmong clothing. The students not only vividly recreated these outfits but also infused them with a new sense of vitality, combining tradition with youthful creativity. This fashion show was more than a simple presentation; it provided our students with a chance to express their pride in ethnic identity while conveying a message of unity and cultural diversity to international friends.

Experiencing Vietnamese Cuisine

Regarding Vietnamese culture, the cuisine cannot be overlooked. Students from both schools together enjoyed gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls), a quintessential Vietnamese dish. By personally rolling and tasting this delicacy, Springwood students gained a hands-on experience of the sophistication and diversity of Vietnamese cuisine.

The cultural exchange between Cantho University Elite High School and Springwood School was more than just a day of fun and learning; it served as a vital bridge, fostering mutual understanding of both nations' cultures. These valuable experiences will remain in the memories of the students, contributing to the development of a generation that is always ready to embrace international integration.