FOSTERING VIETNAMESE–JAPANESE FRIENDSHIP THROUGH CULTURAL EXCHANGE AND EDUCATIONAL COOPERATION

On November 9, 2026, Can Tho University Elite High School (CTU-ESH) was delighted to welcome a delegation of teachers and students from Toyo Junior and Senior High School, Japan, for a visit, cultural exchange, and an opportunity to experience the school's educational environment. The Toyo delegation consisted of 10 students and 2 teachers.

This visit marked another milestone in the ongoing relationship and cooperation between the two schools. Previously, in August 2026, a delegation from CTU-ESH visited Toyo Junior and Senior High School in Japan, comprising 7 students and 1 teacher, Ms. Huynh Thi Thuy Diem, Principal of CTU-ESH. The latest visit further strengthened the bond between the two institutions, reflecting their shared commitment to cooperation and their aspiration to expand educational exchange activities.

MORNING SESSION: WELCOME, CULTURAL EXCHANGE AND MOU SIGNING

During the morning session, the Toyo delegation had the opportunity to attend CTU-ESH's flag-raising ceremony and enjoy a special cultural performance by the school's students, recreating the vibrant atmosphere of the floating markets of the Mekong Delta. The performance not only created a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere but also offered Japanese guests a vivid introduction to the distinctive river-based culture of Vietnam's Mekong Delta.

A highlight of the program was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two schools, marking a new chapter in their educational partnership. This agreement provides an important foundation for promoting student exchange programs, cultural activities, the sharing of teaching experiences, and broader international learning opportunities in the years ahead.

Following the signing ceremony, Toyo students attended four classroom lessons at CTU-ESH. This activity allowed them to observe teaching and learning methods, explore Vietnam's educational environment, and experience firsthand the vibrant academic atmosphere of a high school affiliated with Can Tho University.

AFTERNOON SESSION: CULTURAL EXPERIENCES AND FRIENDSHIP BUILDING

The afternoon was filled with excitement and enthusiasm through a variety of engaging cultural exchange activities.

Discovering Vietnamese Cuisine: CTU-ESH students introduced their Japanese peers to Vietnamese cuisine and guided them in preparing goi cuon (Vietnamese fresh spring rolls), a popular and delicious dish that reflects the distinctive culinary traditions of Southern Vietnam. Through this hands-on activity, Japanese students learned about the ingredients and preparation techniques while experiencing the delicate flavors and cultural richness of Vietnamese cuisine.

Traditional Arts and Cultural Exchange: Musical and artistic performances, particularly a presentation of Hau dong (a traditional Vietnamese spirit-mediumship ritual), introduced the Japanese delegation to a distinctive form of Vietnamese folk religious practice. This activity also provided an opportunity for Japanese students to gain a deeper understanding of the richness and diversity of Vietnamese cultural and spiritual life.

Building Connections Through Sports: The volleyball exchange between students from the two schools took place in a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere. Exciting rallies, enthusiastic cheers, and shared smiles helped bridge language barriers and created lasting memories of friendship throughout the visit.

CONNECTING TODAY – CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR TOMORROW

The cultural exchange program on November 9, 2026, was not only an opportunity for teachers and students from both schools to learn about each other's educational environments, cultures, and people, but also a testament to CTU-ESH's proactive commitment to international integration.

From CTU-ESH's visit to Japan in August 2026 to the reception of the Toyo delegation in Can Tho in November 2026, together with the signing of the MOU between the two schools, the Vietnam–Japan educational partnership continues to grow through meaningful and practical activities.

We firmly believe that the connections established today will pave the way for new opportunities for cooperation, contributing to the development of a modern, dynamic, culturally distinctive, and internationally oriented educational environment for CTU-ESH students.

CTU-ESH – Connecting Knowledge, Inspiring Cultural Exchange, and Shaping Global Citizens!