10-DAY WORKING IMMERSION OF SAN ANTONIO DE PADUA COLLEGE STUDENTS AT THE ADVANCED EDUCATION PROGRAM OF TUAF

On January 25, 2024, teachers and students from San Antonio De Padua College ended their 10-day journey of studying and working at the Advanced Education Program. During this duration, they showed their enthusiasm when participating in knowledgeable classes and exciting activities with the TUAF teacher and students. Additionally, San Antonio students also had the opportunity to experience short trips to some provinces in the North of Vietnam.

Let's take a look back at the memorable moments of San Antonio students !!

DAY 1: ARRIVING IN VIETNAM

The delegation from San Antonio De Padua College was welcomed in Meeting Room A4, Center Hall at Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry (TUAF). Here, the Memorandum of Understanding was signed to establish and confirm the cooperation between the two schools. Besides, San Antonio students have brought forth remarkable performances that have stirred up the atmosphere of the Welcome meeting. After that, the delegation attended the campus tour to understand more about TUAF and got ready to experience 10 – day ASEAN YOUTH CAMP (Work Immersion) program in Vietnam.

DAY 2: SEMINAR AND VIETNAMESE CUISINE PRACTISE WITH UTAS STUDENTS

San Antonio students had the chance to participate in an academic exchange and the seminar with students from University of Tasmania, Australia. Discussion groups brought forth diverse opinions, contributing to a lively and engaging atmosphere. The event was not only an opportunity for students from both universities to exchange ideas but also a platform to foster enthusiasm for environmental and natural issues.

In the afternoon, they took part in practising Vietnamese tradtitional cuisine: Spring rolls and Pho rolls. The students showcased their culinary skills and enthusiasm, particularly in executing the various cooking steps. This practice session also a chance for them to get closer to other students.

DAY 3: VISITING VIET CUONG GLASS NOODLE, HAO DAT TEA FARM, THAI HAI VILLAGE

Continuing to accompany the Australian delegation, students from San Antonio College recently embarked on a small trip to visit Viet Cuong glass noodle, Hao Dat tea farm, and Thai Hai Village. They not only had the opportunity to learn more about the production of Viet Cuong glass noodle and Hao Dat tea farm but also try out these products. In addition, San Antonio students had a thorough understanding of the culture and customs of the Nung and Tay ethnic communities in Thai Nguyen City while paying a visit Thai Hai Village.  

DAY 4: MUSEUM OF THE CULTURES OF VIETNAM'S ETHNIC GROUPS

The Museum of the Cultures of Vietnam's Ethnic Groups was the next stop, where everyone admired and learned about the diverse culture of Vietnam's ethnic groups. From traditional costumes to exquisite cuisines, from customs to the daily lives of ethnic groups such as Tay, Thai, Nung, Giay, Lao, Lu, San Chay, Bo, and many others.

DAY 5: FREE DAY

Some students chose to visit Ha Long Bay, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Vietnam. They embarked on a boat journey to explore attractions like Dau Do Cave, Thien Cung Cave, and various other points of interest. Their experience also encompassed indulging in the delightful freshness of local seafood, an indispensable part of visiting this picturesque coastal city. In contrast, another group of students opted to explore Thai Nguyen City, where they immersed themselves in shopping and savored the local culinary delights.

DAY 6: EXPLORATION JOURNEY IN HANOI

San Antonio delegation had a journey to Ha Noi – the capital of Vietnam. They shared tranquil and unforgettable moments together at Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Corner, and Walking Street. The trip not only immersed everyone in the history and traditions of the Vietnamese people but also provided the students with experiences to savor unique cuisine, especially the rich and distinctive coffees characteristic of Hanoi.

DAY 7: BAKING EXPERIENCE AND ATTENDING AEP’S GRADUATION

The students experienced making cream puffs for the very first time, and they were truly focused, attentively listening to the teacher's instructions at each step. Their enthusiasm and dedication resulted in creating delicious and visually appealing pastries. Then, they took part in the graduation ceremony of AEP students and showcased their traditional dances to all the guests. This contributed to energizing the ceremony and made it a great success.

DAY 8: ATTENDING LECTURE WITH AEP’S STUDENTS AND VISITING AGRONOMY LAB

The class became vibrant and meaningful with active discussions among students from both institutions. This is truly a great opportunity for students to connect and learn from each other as well as professors in the field of the Environment. Furthermore, students also have the chance to supplement their knowledge of sustainable farming methods and boost productivity during the visit to the Agronomy Lab.

DAY 9: PRESENTING REPORTS, AWARDING OF CERTIFICATE

The students enthusiastically recounted their 10-day journey participating in the ASEAN YOUTH CAMP 2024 (Work Immersion), sharing interesting and memorable moments with everyone through their presentations. The Advanced Education Program then proceeded to award certificates to the teachers and students from San Antonio College to celebrate the completion of this program. We hope to reunite with these students in their new roles as Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry students and continue to welcome other delegations from San Antonio College.

DAY 10: RETURNING PHILIPPINES

The delegation came back Philippines. Farewell, everyone. We hope that all of you will stay healthy and continue to achieve great success in your academic journey. We look forward to the day when we can reunite and share memorable experiences. Mabuhay and Maraming salamat !!!