Le Minh Hieu is passionate about technology and came to SSEAYP 2026 hoping to share many issues that young people in the region care about - Photo: Provided by the interviewee.
That student from the University of Technology (Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City) is one of 16 young people representing Vietnamese youth in the Southeast Asia-Japan Youth Ship Program (SSEAYP) 2026, which was launched a few days ago.
Using technology to spread identity.
Hieu's childhood was closely associated with the ancient citadel of Quang Tri, a land rich in historical traditions and a spirit of learning. Hieu says that early exposure to a modern environment helped him develop adaptability, an open mind, and the courage to step out of his comfort zone.
The dream of participating in SSEAYP came to Hieu quite naturally, as he wanted to showcase the aspirations of a young Vietnamese person integrating into the global community while upholding his homeland's culture. The three rounds of the competition brought Hieu many emotional experiences. In particular, during the talent round, Hieu used computer science and programming to create a product that combined traditional elements with modern technology.
Hieu's essay revolves around the story of using technology to retell and spread Vietnamese culture in a way that resonates with young people. He shares his journey of self-learning programming and building an application that generates chords for Vietnamese songs, incorporating 3D imagery to help users access traditional music while enjoying a more modern experience.
"From my perspective, technology is not separate from identity but can become a tool to preserve, retell, and spread Vietnamese cultural values in a new way, making them more accessible to young people and international friends," Hieu shared.
As one of Vietnam's youngest delegates in the SSEAYP 2026 voyage, Hieu brings with him knowledge not only of culture and history but also of social and environmental issues.
He also demonstrated adaptability in a multicultural environment, showcasing communication and teamwork skills, as well as a willingness to listen and learn from differences.
"I really want to experience firsthand how each country develops its society, education , and technology. I also hope to learn how young people cooperate, engage in dialogue, and work together to solve common regional problems," Hieu said excitedly before departure.
Technology only truly becomes meaningful when it stems from empathy, from the real-life needs of life, and is developed with perseverance and responsibility.
LE MINH HIEU
Doing science for the community.
Towards the end of elementary school, young Hieu tinkered with assembling and repairing computers to help his teachers and his parents' colleagues. In 8th grade, Hieu won third prize in the provincial Young Innovators competition, and from then until the end of high school, there was hardly a year without an innovative product participating in science and technology competitions.
Hieu said that scientific research is a way to train your thinking, solve practical problems, and use science and technology to create positive values for the community. As proof, the project "Autonomous wheelchair to assist people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in mobility and communication" was created by Hieu and his friends out of concern for ALS patients and the desire to do something to help them.
People with this condition are fully conscious but are almost completely dependent on others for daily activities, especially movement and communication. Hieu uses eye-tracking technology, allowing users to choose direction of movement or interact with the interface through pupil movements, which is very suitable for patients who have almost completely lost the ability to move their limbs but still retain control of their gaze.
The project not only facilitates mobility but also improves communication skills for patients, reducing the burden on caregivers. Hieu entered this project at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in the US and won 4th place. This result exempted Hieu from the high school graduation exam and allowed him to be admitted directly to university. "I am satisfied not with the project's achievements but with the story of doing science that connects with people," Hieu confided.
Ms. Luong Thi Ngoc Diep, Hieu's homeroom teacher in 12th grade at Quang Tri High School, commented that he is a studious student, passionate about learning, with a serious mindset, always proactive in approaching new knowledge, and constantly striving to excel in his studies.
Helping you take care of your mental health.
Minh Hieu is also known as the founder of "Quang Tri Well-being Circle," a space that helps students identify their emotions, understand themselves, and support each other. The project was born when Hieu noticed that many students at his high school were under pressure, and their mental health and socio-emotional skills were not receiving enough attention.
Through group activities, sharing, discussions, and practical experiences, students identify the challenges of mental health and find ways to care for and balance their emotions in their studies and lives. The "Quang Tri Well-being Circle" gradually helps students develop self-regulation skills, build empathy, and cultivate positive relationships, enabling them to become more open and confident in sharing personal stories and seeking support when needed.
Stimulate root growth.
Minh Hieu's startup idea, AUXIN, won third prize in the 2024 National Student Startup Idea Competition. AUXIN was born from the practical difficulties in agricultural production, especially in the initial development stage of crops when the root system is weak, the ability to absorb nutrients is poor, and farmers need rather costly interventions.
Once again, Hieu applied scientific and technical methods to stimulate root growth. This helped the plants grow more steadily, increasing productivity and reducing costs for farmers.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/dem-khoa-hoc-gan-hoi-tho-cuoc-song-20260120100357134.htm
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