Southern Women's Museum

When a museum is more than just a place to preserve the past…

On International Museum Day 18/5/2025 – Theme: “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities”

“The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities” is the theme of International Museum Day 2025, proposed by the International Council of Museums – ICOM. International Museum Day 2025 is an opportunity for museums to demonstrate their important role in an era of great social, technological and environmental changes, where people are having to adapt to the challenges of the times, while shaping the development opportunities for the future. International Museum Day, held on May 18 every year, this year's theme revolves around “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities” and its connection to many of the proposed goals, of which goal number 11 “Developing Cities and Communities” is of great interest to museums in Ho Chi Minh City. In this context, the Southern Women's Museum stands out as a typical example of how museums can contribute to sustainable development and communities.

Photo: Poster to Celebrate International Museum Day 2025”

Source: International Council of Museums

Traditionally, museums have been viewed as places to preserve artifacts and cultural heritage. However, in the 21st century, their role has expanded beyond these boundaries. Museums are not simply places to display, but also spaces for communication, education and community connection. The Southern Women's Museum has implemented programs and activities to raise awareness of the role of women in society, from the past to the present, and created programs to discuss issues related to gender, equality and women's rights. In particular, the museum also highlights the great contributions of Southern women in the resistance wars against foreign invaders, from brave female guerrillas to mothers and wives in the strong rear. Female commandos, to heroes in diplomatic work.

The Southern Women's Museum has applied innovation, technology and display to enhance the visitor experience. In the context of increasingly developing digital technology, the museum has implemented many creative solutions to attract andeducate the community about the role of women in the history and culture of Southern women. One of the outstanding applications is the use of Smart Museum 3D/360 technology, just by operating on the phone, the museum will appear with a multi-dimensional space to help visitors experience the exhibitions more vividly or can look up information on the touch screens placed in the galleries. In addition, the museum also applies 3D Hologram technology to display, visitors can view artifacts in a vivid 3D space. These are modern technology applications, instead of just looking at artifacts, they can enter the historical space, interact with artifacts and events through electronic devices. This not only enhances the appeal but also creates a sense of authenticity, making it easier for viewers to grasp and remember information. In addition, the museum has developed mobile applications and interactive websites, where users can access information about exhibitions, events and educational programs. Videos, articles and images are updated regularly, helping to expand accessibility for those who cannot come to the museum directly. This is especially important in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people cannot participate in direct activities. Thanks to the effective application of technology, the Southern Women's Museum not only preserves cultural heritage but also creates a rich learning and experiential environment, contributing to building awareness of the role of women in modern society.

Photo: Technology applications are on display at the Museum.

One of the important tasks of a modern museum is to connect with the community. This means that the museum must not only serve researchers and visitors, but also listen to the opinions and needs of the community. The Southern Women's Museum has been successful in organizing seminars, talks and cultural events, creating a space for women and generations of heroic women to share their stories. These activities not only help the museum maintain its appeal but also create a strong connection with the community. At the Southern Women's Museum, programs not only focus on women's history but also incorporate contemporary topics such as women's rights and gender equality, thereby raising awareness and creating positive change in society.

This is also a typical example of the transformation of museums in the modern context. With a variety of activities such as exhibitions, seminars, and educational programs, museums not only serve the preservation of heritage but also create positive social values. Exhibitions at museums are often designed to highlight the role of women in society from the past to the present, from gender equality to women's rights, thereby encouraging community participation.

The future of museums lies not only in preserving cultural values but also in their ability to adapt to change and connect with the community. Museums have been and continue to develop in this. With the current focus on education, museums carry out exhibition programs, promote museums to schools, neighborhoods, and women's associations. From these activities, museums will not only survive but also thrive in society.

Photo: Museum officials give a talk at a school in Ho Chi Minh City.

International Museum Day is an opportunity for us to re-evaluate the role of museums in society. In particular, the Southern Women's Museum is a testament to the ability to adapt and develop sustainably, contributing to the city's sustainable development goals and the sustainable development of the nation and global progress.

Ho Chi Minh City, May 16, 2025

Nguyen Ha Thanh Truc

Department of Communication - Education and International Relations

References:

1. Activities in response to International Museum Day (May 18, 2025), Do Hang, dsvh.gov.vn

http://dsvh.gov.vn/hoat-dong-huong-ung-ngay-quoc-te-bao-tang-18-5-2025-22203

2. Celebrating the 48th anniversary of International Museum Day (May 18, 1977 - May 18, 2025), Author Anh Dung, Quang Trung Museum, Binh Dinh province.

https://baotangquangtrung.com.vn/vi/news/hoat-dong-cua-bao- tang/ky-niem-48-nam-ngay-quoc-te-bao-tang-18-5-1977-18-5-2025-96.html