Nguyễn Lý Đăng Khoa — student of the Faculty of Information Systems, University of Information Technology (UIT) — represented Vietnam at the AUN UBD Summer Camp 2025.

Stepping out of the comfort zone — and the world unfolds

Setting foot in Brunei for the AUN UBD Summer Camp 2025, I didn’t feel like I was simply attending an international summer camp — it felt more like opening a window and suddenly seeing a new world: peaceful, green, and full of unfamiliar wonders.

Brunei may be small in size, but it tells a compelling story of growth and sustainability. From tree-lined roads to the floating village of Kampong Ayer — where people live in harmony with the water — I found myself deeply inspired by how a nation can progress without compromising the environment.

Hosted by Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) — a pioneer in sustainability among Southeast Asian universities — the camp embraced the theme: “Green Stewardship: Preserving Biodiversity and Advancing Sustainable Development.” It opened up an entirely new journey of awareness and understanding for me.

Along with other participants, I took classes in mangrove forests, joined seminars on ocean conservation at the Royal Navy Base, and discussed food security with fellow students from ASEAN+3 countries. It was a learning environment where we weren’t just encouraged to speak — we were genuinely heard.

Brunei, to me, wasn't just a wealthy country as some stereotypes suggest. It was a living space where people consciously chose to slow down, to live green, and to live in harmony with nature. Shaded pathways, lively floating homes, tranquil campus afternoons, and evenings spent under the stars discussing the future of our planet — all painted a picture of a world deeply rooted in sustainable living.

Every class at UBD was a unique slice of education, culture, and ecology. I learned about mangrove ecosystems, joined environmental workshops, and visited ports, botanical gardens, and even the Royal Navy station. On quiet afternoons, I walked through nature reserves with friends, listening to Bruneian professors share how they teach students to cherish life — from the tiniest insect to every leaf and branch.

And that’s when I asked myself: “If I hadn’t come, would I ever have understood that living green isn’t a trend — it’s the sustainable way of life the world is choosing?”

From academics to performance — I dared to try what I never had

What impressed me wasn’t just what we learned — it was how we learned together. I met peers from Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, China, and beyond. Each person brought their own story, working style, and perspective on development. This diversity wove together a truly collaborative tapestry.

In our group project, we created a video, developed a proposal for marine conservation, and presented it to a panel. There were moments of disagreement, racing against deadlines, and even editing videos on empty stomachs. But in the middle of all that chaos, friendships blossomed — we talked about everything from coral reefs to street food.

Perhaps the most unforgettable moment was the “Red Blood, Yellow Skin” dance performance by the Vietnamese team at the Cultural Night. We spent days rehearsing, syncing every move and beat. As I stood on stage, under the lights, dressed in traditional áo dài, I realized something simple but profound: sharing Vietnamese culture with the world doesn’t have to be complicated — it just needs to be heartfelt and authentic.

The trip may have ended — but a new journey has only just begun

After more than a week in Brunei, I returned to Vietnam with so much “baggage” — not souvenirs or certificates, but personal growth, renewed academic motivation, and a more confident, thoughtful version of myself. My suitcase wasn’t heavy, but my heart was full — of new lessons, perspectives, and aspirations.

I realized that being a good student is not enough. What matters more is learning in order to make a difference. Every time we step out of our comfort zone, we give ourselves the chance to discover a bolder, broader, and braver version of who we are.

And I truly believe that every UIT student can step into the world — if they dare. Because behind us is always our home — UIT — a place that doesn’t just train excellent professionals, but nurtures global citizens.

“The world is wide, and we — young Vietnamese — absolutely have a place in it, even in the smallest way, by understanding, sharing, and connecting.” The friends I hugged at the airport as we said goodbye are now part of an international network — inspiring one another, striving forward, and staying connected.

More than just a trip — it was a mirror reflecting who I could become

The AUN Summer Camp wasn’t just a program. It was a mirror — helping me see myself more clearly. And if there’s one thing I’ve taken away from it all, it’s this: Wherever you go, whatever you study — live with responsibility. To nature. To your community. And to yourself.

I would like to extend my deepest thanks to University of Information Technology (UIT), the AUN Network, and Universiti Brunei Darussalam for creating such an inspiring and transformative journey.