On the morning of September 14, 2026, National Economics University (NEU) officially hosted the Opening Ceremony of the 10th Overseas Immersion Programme (OIP) in collaboration with Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore. This milestone event not only encloses incredible opportunities for international learning and exchange but also marks a decade of strong partnership between the two institutions.

Scene at the opening ceremony of “The 10th Overseas Immersion Programme” in collaboration between NEU and Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore

The ceremony welcomed distinguished delegates, including Ms. Lee Gek Huan and Ms. Diane Chan leading the Ngee Ann Polytechnic delegation along with 30 students. Representing NEU were Prof. Dr. To Trung Thanh – Vice President of NEU, Dr. Dao Thanh Tung – Head of International Cooperation Department, Dr. Pham Sy Long – Deputy Head, and 38 NEU students.

Prof. Dr. To Trung Thanh –  NEU Vice President delivering a speech

In his opening speech, Prof. Dr. To Trung Thanh emphasized that the 10th OIP is a meaningful milestone reflecting a deeply rooted and continuously growing partnership.

Over the past nine editions, the program has connected more than 800 students, fostering long-lasting cross-cultural friendships and invaluable academic exchanges. Not only do they study together, exchange ideas, and explore cultures, but many students also maintain contact after the program, supporting each other in their studies and continuing to share experiences and cultural highlights of each country. According to Prof. Dr. To Trung Thanh, the long-lasting relationships formed and maintained are among the outstanding values that OIP has established over the years.

The Vice President of the National Economics University believes that learning is not confined to the classroom. International exchange programs like OIP provide students with opportunities to gain new perspectives, enhance intercultural communication skills, and develop the ability to adapt and work with people from different environments and cultures.

Prof. Dr. To Trung Thanh expressed his hope that Ngee Ann Polytechnic students will make the most of their time in Vietnam to learn about NEU, explore Hanoi and Vietnamese culture, and build new friendships. For NEU students, the program is not only an opportunity to demonstrate their role as friendly and hospitable hosts but also a space to proactively learn from the perspectives, experiences, and cultures of their Singaporean peers.

Through this, the OIP continues to affirm the significance of a persistently maintained exchange program between the two educational institutions, where connections among students extend beyond the framework of a single trip, becoming the foundation for understanding, sharing, and long-term bonding between the young generations of Vietnam and Singapore.

Representative of Ngee Ann Polytechnic – Ms. Lee Gek Huan, Head of Delegation, Speaks

Expressing gratitude for the warm and gracious reception by the National Economics University, Ms. Lee Gek Huan also shared her high expectations for this year’s cohort, hoping the students will deeply explore Vietnamese culture, gain beneficial academic insights, and build strong bonds during their time at NEU and in Hanoi.

University Leaders and Representatives of the Unit Present Gifts and Take Commemorative Photos with the Delegation of Faculty Members and Students from Ngee Ann Polytechnic

The OIP goes beyond the traditional classroom, creating a dynamic environment for students to enhance cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and global integration. The opening ceremony set a vibrant and welcoming tone for the exciting activities and field trips planned for the days ahead.

Over 10 iterations, the Overseas Immersion Programme continues to affirm the significance of student exchange activities in the process of internationalizing education, contributing to creating an environment for NEU students to enhance their international integration capabilities, intercultural communication, and connections with international students, while also deepening the collaborative relationship between NEU and Ngee Ann Polytechnic.

Article and Photos: International Collaboration Department and Communication Department