Amid the vibrant atmosphere of the traditional New Year festivals - Bunpimay of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic and Chol Chnam Thmay of the Kingdom of Cambodia - Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Engineering (HCM-UTE, formerly Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education) organized a gathering and exchange program for Lao and Cambodian international students currently studying at the university.

The program not only served as a way to ease homesickness for family and homeland, but also created a warm and welcoming environment, helping international students fully experience the festive spirit of the New Year while away from home.

HCM-UTE holding a gathering to celebrate Bunpimay and Chol Chnam Thmay for Lao and Cambodian international students, academic year 2025–2026

Attending the program were representatives from the university’s leadership and various departments, including the Office of Student Affairs, the Office of International Affairs, the Dormitory Management Board, and faculties such as Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Civil Engineering, Economics, and Information Technology, along with Lao and Cambodian students studying at HCM-UTE.

A cultural performance exchanging between Vietnamese students and Lao and Cambodian international students

The program began with vibrant cultural performances jointly presented by Vietnamese students and Lao and Cambodian international students. Traditional songs rich in cultural identity contributed to a joyful and warm atmosphere, further strengthening solidarity and friendship among students from the three countries.

At the event, Dr. Tran Thanh Thuong, Head of the Office of Student Affairs, extended New Year greetings to the international students and reaffirmed the university’s continuous support throughout their academic journey and daily life. His meaningful wishes not only offered encouragement but also reflected the university’s responsibility and care for international students.

Dr. Tran Thanh Thuong – Head of the Office of Student Affairs at HCM-UTE delivering remarks at the program

During the program, faculty members and students revisited highlights from previous Bunpimay and Chol Chnam Thmay celebrations. This annual activity has become a meaningful tradition at HCM-UTE, fostering strong connections between teachers and students across generations. In addition, the traditional wrist-tying ceremony symbolizing wishes for peace and good fortune was conducted in a solemn yet cozy atmosphere, further promoting the unique cultural values of the region.

Lao and Cambodian international students performing the traditional wrist-tying ceremony

Representing Lao and Cambodian students, Chansakda Chansanga, a third-year student majoring in Transportation Engineering Technology from the Faculty of Civil Engineering, shared his feelings during the celebration. He expressed his gratitude for the warm and meaningful program organized by the university, and thanked the faculty and staff for their continuous support in both academic and daily life, helping ease homesickness during the festive season. He also extended appreciation to Vietnamese students for their companionship and support, contributing to a friendly, cohesive learning environment and strengthening the friendship among students from Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.

The program concluded with the traditional “lì xì” (lucky money) activity, conveying wishes for luck, peace, and success to the international students. The Bunpimay and Chol Chnam Thmay celebration for the 2025–2026 academic year not only promoted distinctive cultural values but also continued to nurture the spirit of solidarity and friendship among Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia within the educational environment.