On June 26, 2025, a delegation of 40 students from National Economics University (NEU) returned to Hanoi, concluding a rewarding 10-day study and cultural experience trip at Guangxi Minzu University in Nanning, China. The program forms part of the bilateral cooperation between the two universities, helping expand opportunities for NEU students to engage internationally.

The NEU student delegation poses for a commemorative photo at the Vietnam–China Huu Nghi Border Gate

Guangxi Minzu University is located beside the beautiful Acacia Lake in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. Founded in 1952, it is one of the leading universities in Guangxi Province, known for its multicultural learning environment, with thousands of Southeast Asian students enrolling each year.

The NEU student delegation poses for a commemorative photo at the entrance to Guangxi Minzu University

This cultural and language experience program was organized under the cooperation agreement previously signed between the two universities, with the aim of enabling students to study, gain firsthand experience, and develop a deeper understanding of culture, people, and daily life in China.

The NEU student delegation poses for a commemorative photo on the campus of Guangxi Minzu University.

During their two weeks in Nanning, NEU students had the opportunity to visit two campuses of Guangxi Minzu University and many of the city’s well-known tourist attractions. Highlights included Guanyin Temple within the Qingxiu Mountain scenic area—a lush green mountain in the heart of the city; the Zhuang Ethnic Museum, which preserves the distinctive cultural heritage of Guangxi’s ethnic minorities; Nanning’s old town; Xiangsi Town; and the “Nanning Night” pedestrian street, bustling after dark. Students also visited Nanning Zoo, home to the famous giant pandas; Wanda Plaza shopping center; and San Jie Liang Xiang food street, which brings together the finest examples of Nanning’s distinctive street food.

The NEU student delegation visits well-known tourist attractions in Nanning

In addition to sightseeing, students attended cultural classes to experience traditional Chinese arts and practices such as Baduanjin, decorative knotting, traditional paper cutting, calligraphy, and traditional dance. Students particularly enjoyed making dragonflies by hand using knotting techniques as gifts for their loved ones and immersing themselves in the graceful movements of dance lessons. These experiences were not only artistic activities but also a vibrant bridge that helped students gain a deeper appreciation of China’s longstanding cultural values.

NEU students take part in hands-on activities in cultural classes

As part of the program, students also had the opportunity to experience modern technological conveniences in China, a leading technological powerhouse. For the first time, many students dined at a smart cafeteria, scanning QR codes to collect food without the need for serving staff. They also experienced the modern subway system, used washing machines through mobile phone applications, and visited museums featuring 3D projection and virtual reality technologies. All these experiences left fresh and exciting impressions and helped broaden their perspectives on digital life in China.

NEU students experience modern technologies in China

At the end of the program, Guangxi Minzu University awarded NEU students certificates of course completion. At the closing ceremony, Nguyen Hoang Kien, a representative of the NEU student delegation, shared reflections on behalf of the entire group, expressing deep gratitude to the organizers, teachers, and Chinese friends for their thoughtful preparations, hospitality, and dedicated support throughout the 10-day journey in Nanning. “These 10 days have passed so quickly, but the experiences we have gained here will be valuable assets that deepen our love for the Chinese language, culture, and people, helping us become cultural ambassadors who foster enduring friendship between Vietnam and China.”

NEU students at the program’s closing ceremony

The Chinese Culture and Language Experience Program is an annual cooperative activity between NEU and Guangxi Minzu University, intended to offer students opportunities to study, gain firsthand experience, and broaden their perspectives on China—from its people and landscapes to its diverse culture and cuisine. The program concluded with rich experiences, unforgettable memories, and a strong sense of connection among students from the two countries. This special program has been held regularly since 2017 to open up more opportunities for NEU students to learn, explore, and engage internationally.

Additional photos from the program:

Article and photos: Department of International Cooperation

This is an automated translation. If you notice any errors, please contact the Department of Communications, National Economics University at phongtruyenthong@neu.edu.vn.