(TVU) – On January 15, 2026, at Tra Vinh University, the Closing Ceremony of the Student Exchange Program between Tra Vinh University and Saxion University of Applied Sciences (Netherlands) took place in a solemn and warm atmosphere, marking an important milestone in the international training cooperation between the two institutions.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including Ms. Hanna Pors, Deputy Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ho Chi Minh City. Representing Saxion University were Professor Harry Futselaar, Professor Patrick de Lange, and 40 students.
Representing TVU were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Diep Thanh Tung, Vice Rector of Tra Vinh University, along with leaders from the School of Engineering & Technology, the School of Economics and Law, the Institute of International Training, and a team of lecturers, staff, and volunteer students.
In his concluding remarks, Associate Professor Dr. Diep Thanh Tung, Vice Rector of TVU, stated that this year was particularly significant, as TVU had the honor of welcoming the largest delegation from Saxion University to date, comprising 40 students and 3 professors. According to the Vice Rector, the project not only added academic value but also fostered a fresh understanding of multiculturalism on the university campus and in the local community.
On behalf of the university leadership, Associate Professor Dr. Diep Thanh Tung expressed his gratitude to Saxion University for their trust, close collaboration, and strong commitment to building a long-term partnership. He especially thanked Professor Harry Futselaar for his dedicated support of TVU over the years.
Professor Harry Futselaar shared: “We believe that cooperation based on trust and practical action is the key to addressing the challenges of climate change, urbanization, and water resources. Through interdisciplinary programs such as civil engineering and construction engineering, we aim to train students not only with knowledge and experience, but also with a sense of responsibility towards nature, viewing water as a valuable resource and developing sustainable solutions based on both technology and nature.”
Ms. Hanna Pors, Deputy Consul General of the Netherlands, emphasized: “Water management, saltwater intrusion, climate change adaptation, and sustainable aquaculture are not just academic topics, but real-world challenges that Vietnam and the Netherlands face daily.”
There, the Deputy Consul directly visited and highly appreciated the advanced technology models that STARS is operating: Wastewater Treatment Park: A model for converting wastewater into safe water for agricultural irrigation – a practical solution for water resource recycling. Urban Aquaponics: An integrated system for aquaculture and clean vegetable farming, optimizing space and resources for modern cities. Modern water treatment technologies and advanced water filtration and treatment solutions are being researched and applied in practice.
Students visited key projects, including the Mekong Salt Lab – a symbol of the Netherlands’ long-term commitment to sustainable solutions in the Mekong Delta. STARS Sustainable Water Center, a symbol of the extensive international cooperation between TVU and Saxion University (Netherlands), along with support from prestigious funds such as Erasmus+ and OKP-Nuffic, and non-governmental organizations.
In addition, the delegation visited local shrimp farms and the Heineken factory in Long An to learn about responsible business models and sustainable development.
The highlight of the ceremony was the emotional sharing by Saxion University student representatives about their memories, lessons, and practical projects undertaken throughout the program.
At the ceremony, 53 students were honored to receive certificates of completion from representatives of the university leadership and the Consulate General. These certificates are a well-deserved recognition of the positive attitude, commitment to learning, and efforts to adapt to a multicultural environment of these young people.
The ceremony concluded with a meaningful commemorative photo session between delegates, lecturers, and students. The TVU – Saxion student exchange program went beyond lectures and truly created a vibrant, dynamic community of young learners ready for international integration.
The success of this program further affirms Tra Vinh University’s position in expanding its international partnership network and in providing students with world-class learning opportunities.
My Nhien
