People-to-people diplomacy contributes to promoting Vietnam - Canada educational cooperation and exchange

People-to-people diplomacy is an important factor in promotingeducational exchanges and cooperation between Vietnam and Canada. Through these exchanges, both countries not only improve the education and skills of the younger generation but also create a solid foundation for a stronger relationship. People-to-people diplomacy contributes to promoting educational cooperation between Vietnam and Canada. In recent years, universities and educational institutions of the two countries have actively implemented activities such as organizing training cooperation programs, scientific research, digital transformation in teaching and learning, student and lecturer exchanges, potential internship programs and job opportunities for students after graduation.

Canada has become a favorite study destination for young Vietnamese people. Currently, Vietnam ranks first in Southeast Asia and fifth in the world in the number of international students in Canada, with about 21,000 Vietnamese students studying in Canada. Among the Vietnamese students trained in Canada, many have become excellent experts in scientific research and innovation organizations, contributing to the development of both Vietnam and Canada. Universities in the two countries can establish student exchange programs, giving Vietnamese students the opportunity to study in Canada and vice versa. This creates conditions for students to experience a new learning environment and culture. Many scholarship funds from the government, non-governmental organizations and schools in Canada support Vietnamese students to study in Canada, while also encouraging Canadian students to study and research in Vietnam. The two sides will organize cultural and educational events, such as cultural festivals, seminars, and educational exhibitions, creating opportunities for students and teachers of the two countries to exchange and share knowledge and experiences. Primary, secondary and university schools of Vietnam and Canada can cooperate to develop common curricula or organize cultural exchange activities. Teacher training programs from Canada can be implemented in Vietnam, improving the quality of teaching and updating new skills for Vietnamese teachers. Organize seminars and training courses for teachers and education experts, facilitating the sharing of experiences and effective teaching methods. Encourage research cooperation between universities and research institutes of Vietnam and Canada, expanding opportunities for sharing knowledge and information in prominent areas such as science and technology, health and environment. Projects supporting English teaching and learning help Vietnamese students improve their language skills, thereby expanding international study and employment opportunities. According to Mr. Nguyen Nang Khieu, Secretary General of the Vietnam - Canada Friendship Association, Deputy Head of the Americas Department (Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations), 21,000 Vietnamese students studying in Canada are ambassadors, bridges for people-to-people exchanges, promoting the image of the country and national culture.

Congressman Shaun Chen (second from left) takes a souvenir photo with Secretary General of the Vietnam-Canada Friendship Association Nguyen Nang Khieu (second from right) and Ambassador Pham Vinh Quang (far right) during the gift-giving ceremony with the Vietnamese delegation. Photo: Internet.

To contribute to promoting educational cooperation between the two countries, in the coming time, the Vietnam - Canada Friendship Association will strengthen and expand relations with partners such as universities, colleges, high schools, and research institutes in Canada; organize academic exchange activities, seminars, and workshops with Canadian partners. The Association will build a database on the Canadian education system, the situation of Vietnam - Canada educational cooperation, the situation of Vietnamese students studying in Canada, and Canadian students in Vietnam to provide to organizations, individuals, and companies in need of studying in Canada. In addition, the Association will increase delegation exchanges such as: inviting Canadian universities, colleges, and high schools to send delegations of Canadian teachers and students to Vietnam to visit, experience, exchange culture, and stay with local people (homestay); inviting Canadian students in Vietnam to participate in cultural activities; organizing delegations of Vietnamese schools to Canada to visit, attend summer camps, and experience Canadian culture.

The Vietnam - Canada Friendship Association strengthens and expands people-to-people exchange cooperation between the two countries. Photo: Internet

Ambassador Nguyen Thi Hoi, Permanent Vice President of the Vietnam - Canada Friendship Association, said that Canada is a good educational destination for Vietnamese students. The results of the discussion were initial successes, raising issues for discussion and common understanding, and at the same time, a premise for the parties to continue discussing in the future. On that basis, recommendations were made and advice was given to the competent authorities of each country to continue supporting and creating conditions to improve the effectiveness of educational cooperation between the two countries, so that this field can truly be a pillar in the Vietnam - Canada Comprehensive Partnership. People-to-people diplomacy plays an essential role in promoting educational exchange and cooperation between Vietnam and Canada. Through these activities, not only will the educational level and skills of students be improved, but the relationship between the two countries will also be strengthened. Educational cooperation will not only help the two sides understand each other but also create generations of responsible global citizens, contributing to the development of both countries in the context of global integration./.

Bich Huong