Fast-paced rallies, decisive shots, and thrilling point-by-point battles brought excitement to the Pickleball and Table Tennis competitions at UIT Sports 2026. After several days of competition, the top performers were officially crowned, bringing two more energetic sporting events to a close for students of University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT).Celebrating the top performersIn the Men’s Doubles Pickleball event, Pham Hung (23520573) and Nguyen Hoang Nam (22520916) claimed First Prize. Second Prize went to Doan Huu Gia Binh (24520192) and Nguyen Duc Nhan (24511234). Two pairs shared Third Prize: Tran Vu Thanh Dat (26520304) and Huynh Quoc Luat (26521169), and Phan Vinh Hoang (26520598) and Bui Trong Nghia (26521348).In Men’s Singles Pickleball, Nguyen Quoc Huy (22520566) secured First Prize, followed by Nguyen Duc Hiep (24520482) in Second Place. Le Minh Tam (26521806) and Ly Quoc Huy (26520711) shared Third Prize. Consolation Prizes were awarded to Pham Hung (23520573), Nguyen Hoang Long (26521096), Ho Truong Thinh (26550023), and Bui Trong Nghia (26521348).In the Table Tennis competition, Ta Ngoc An (23520030) emerged as the champion. Bao Trinh (25521929) earned Second Prize, while Le Xuan Truong (25521981) and Nguyen Huu Phuc Khang (26520821) shared Third Prize. Consolation Prizes went to Truong Anh Thu (26521981), Tran Xuan An (26520035), Nguyen Tan Phat (26521553), and Nguyen Tran Nghia (23521013).UITers giving their all in every rallyBeyond competing for titles, the Pickleball and Table Tennis events provided UIT students with opportunities to challenge themselves, connect with fellow students, and develop their competitive spirit.Speed, reflexes, concentration, and precision were on display throughout the matches, particularly during closely contested rallies when every point mattered.While Pickleball stood out for its teamwork, coordination, and continuous exchanges, Table Tennis delivered rapid rallies that demanded sustained focus and quick decision-making.The athletes’ enthusiasm, determination, and commitment to fair play contributed to the exciting atmosphere throughout the competitions.More experiences, more energy for student life at UITUIT Sports 2026 is not only about recognizing outstanding athletes. It also provides a platform for students to maintain active lifestyles, build friendships, and find a healthy balance alongside their academic and research commitments.Each sporting event offers a different experience, but all share the goal of helping UITers strengthen their physical well-being, teamwork, discipline, and resilience.The encouragement and cheers from fellow students also contribute to a more vibrant, connected, and dynamic campus community.Congratulations to all athletes who achieved outstanding results in the Pickleball and Table Tennis competitions!UIT Sports 2026 continues with more exciting competitions ahead, and more names are waiting to be called to the winners’ podium.

UIT Talk “AI in Software Testing” attracted a large number of students from University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT) to Hall E, with experts from SAP Labs East Asia Vietnam joining the program to share their industry perspectives.From AI-powered test generation and test automation to LLM-as-a-Judge and Quality Assurance, the program brought current challenges and emerging practices in enterprise software development closer to UIT students.When AI changes the way software is testedThe rapid development of Artificial Intelligence is driving significant changes across the software development lifecycle, with software testing and quality assurance among the areas offering considerable potential for AI applications.At UIT Talk, rather than approaching AI solely from a conceptual perspective, students explored how the technology is being applied to software testing in practice. Topics including AI-powered test generation, test automation, LLM-as-a-Judge, and Quality Assurance gave participants a clearer understanding of how AI can be integrated into different stages of software development, testing, and evaluation.The discussion also moved beyond the question of “what AI can do” to examine how software engineers can use AI as a tool to support their work. At the same time, the increasing involvement of AI systems introduces new requirements for testing mindsets, evaluating AI-generated results, and maintaining software quality.Industry perspectives from SAP expertsJoining UIT students at the program were SAP experts Hai Pham, Senior Developer; Stefan Pham, Senior Developer; Nhan Tran, Talent Discovery; and Kien Pham, Strategy & Ops Manager.With speakers representing different professional roles, students gained perspectives ranging from software development and changes in development workflows to recruitment, operations, and strategy within a technology company.Beyond technical topics, the program also provided space for discussions about the labor market as AI becomes increasingly integrated into business operations. Through direct exchanges with industry experts, students gained further insights into the capabilities employers are looking for, how technology-related roles are evolving, and how they can prepare for an AI-enabled workplace.Connecting with industry to bring emerging technologies closer to studentsUIT Talk “AI in Software Testing” is part of UIT’s ongoing efforts to strengthen connections with industry, bringing experts, implementation experience, and real-world technology challenges closer to the academic environment.For students, programs such as UIT Talk add another dimension to their learning experience alongside their academic curriculum. Direct interaction with professionals involved in developing, deploying, and managing technology products helps students better understand the connection between what they learn at UIT and the practical requirements of the industry.At the same time, industry participation in academic activities creates further opportunities for UIT and its partners to exchange perspectives on emerging technology trends, workforce needs, and the new capabilities students will need to develop for their future careers.In response to National Innovation Day 2026The program was also one of UIT’s activities in response to National Innovation Day 2026, contributing to the promotion of research, technology application, and innovation among students.Through a specific topic such as AI in software testing, students not only gained exposure to an emerging technology trend but also had the opportunity to see how new technologies move from research and tools into real-world workflows within technology companies.This reflects UIT’s continued efforts to extend learning beyond the traditional classroom, strengthen the connection between education and industry practice, and enable students to engage with changes in the technology sector while they are still studying.Through UIT Talk and other industry engagement activities, emerging technologies are not limited to concepts introduced in lectures. Instead, they are placed within specific scenarios, workflows, and professional contexts, giving students more opportunities to strengthen their technical capabilities, innovation mindset, and adaptability in a technology landscape being rapidly transformed by AI.

Nguyen Dang Quang Phuc, a 2023-cohort student in the Japanese-oriented Information Technology program at the Faculty of Information Science and Engineering, University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT), has won First Prize at the 9th Japanese Speech Contest for Southern Universities.The achievement not only highlights his Japanese-language proficiency but also demonstrates his ability to present arguments, think critically, and communicate with confidence in Japanese in an academic competition.Five minutes in Japanese to claim the top prizeAt the Final Round on September 14, 2026, Quang Phuc competed alongside 15 outstanding finalists selected from 33 entries representing 16 universities.Each contestant had five minutes to deliver a speech entirely in Japanese, followed by a two-minute Q&A session with the judging panel. The challenge therefore went far beyond pronunciation, vocabulary, or grammatical accuracy. Contestants had to structure their ideas effectively, communicate a clear perspective, respond quickly to questions, and defend their arguments in the language they were studying.With a compelling performance, Quang Phuc stood out among contestants from universities across the region to secure First Prize in this year’s competition.When language becomes part of global competenceFor students in UIT’s Japanese-oriented Information Technology program, Japanese is more than a foreign-language subject. Developing both IT expertise and Japanese-language proficiency gives students greater opportunities to access academic resources, international learning environments, companies, and career pathways connected with Japan.A speech contest therefore provides an opportunity to take language skills beyond the classroom. From preparing the content and choosing the right expressions to presenting before the judging panel and responding to questions in real time, students must combine language proficiency with critical thinking, communication skills, and confidence.Quang Phuc’s First Prize reflects the results of his dedicated learning and continuous practice. It also marks another achievement for students in UIT’s Japanese-oriented Information Technology program through academic and cultural exchanges between Vietnam and Japan.From UIT classrooms to international environmentsThe 9th Japanese Speech Contest for Southern Universities was jointly organized by the Komaru Transportation Foundation, Binh Duong University, and Fukuyama City University, with the participation and support of organizations from Vietnam and Japan.Taking part in academic competitions such as this gives students opportunities to put their knowledge and skills to the test in a broader environment. For internationally oriented academic programs in particular, these experiences help students gradually strengthen their cross-cultural communication skills, adapt to diverse environments, and confidently demonstrate their capabilities.Nguyen Dang Quang Phuc’s achievement therefore represents more than an individual award. From his foundation in information technology to his Japanese proficiency, presentation skills, and critical thinking, his journey reflects a broader path of development for technology students in an increasingly connected world – one where strong professional expertise provides the foundation, while foreign-language proficiency helps expand opportunities for learning, careers, and global engagement.

Passionate about programming? Fascinated by autonomous vehicles? Ready to challenge yourself with digital signal processing and computer vision? UIT Car Racing 2026 is where you can turn lines of code into motion and bring your ideas onto a real racing track.UIT Car Racing is an annual autonomous vehicle programming competition organized by the Faculty of Computer Engineering, University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT). Over the past 14 seasons, the competition has become an exciting academic playground where students can explore technology, sharpen their problem-solving skills, and work together to overcome challenges on the track.More than a race for speed, UIT Car Racing puts programming skills, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork to the test. New challenges, new competitors, and a whole new journey are waiting ahead.If you are looking for an opportunity to learn, experiment, and put your knowledge into practice, now is the time to step up to the starting line.Build your team, prepare your strategy, and register now to become part of the 15th season of UIT Car Racing!Registration: Register for UIT Car Racing 2026Registration period: August 24 – September 13, 2026Competition Rules: UIT Car Racing 2026 Rules and Regulations

Congratulations to the UIT men’s table tennis team on an outstanding performance, securing Second Prize in the Men’s Team event at the 2026 VNU-HCM Student Sports Festival!Three days of competition brought fast-paced rallies, intense exchanges, and thrilling points that kept everyone watching until the very last moment. The two UIT players showed great teamwork and determination as they advanced through each round and proudly brought home a well-deserved Silver Medal.Coming just one match away from the top spot may leave a little regret, but the journey is one to be proud of. Behind every medal are hours of practice, hard work, and the determination to give it their all while representing UIT.Congratulations to our UIT table tennis players! Thank you for the exciting matches, the fighting spirit, and for once again bringing UIT colors to the podium at the 2026 VNU-HCM Student Sports Festival. 

Thirty days, five courses, an entirely new academic environment, and countless first-time experiences. For Nguyen Van Minh, a Computer Science student in the 2023 Talent Program at the University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT), his first month at the National University of Singapore (NUS) has been more than a period of adjustment. It has also been a chance to discover new boundaries and challenge himself beyond what he already knows.Participating in the DiscoverNUS exchange program during Semester 1 of the 2026–2027 academic year, Minh has the opportunity to study, explore research, and experience student life in an international environment where every day brings new expectations for independent learning, critical thinking, and initiative.30 days of learning to adaptThe first days in Singapore were not entirely easy. A new pace of life, a multicultural environment, different learning approaches, and a demanding workload sometimes required Minh to slow down, reassess, and find his own way to adapt.Yet those differences soon became some of the most valuable parts of the experience.From navigating unfamiliar routines, Minh gradually learned to organize his schedule, manage his time, connect with international friends, and become more proactive in making the most of each opportunity. Even simple moments, such as exploring local food with friends or chatting after class, helped turn an unfamiliar environment into a place that gradually felt more like everyday life.“From being unfamiliar with the local food and lifestyle at first, sharing local dishes with friends has now become one of the most memorable parts of my first month here,” Minh shared.When a Computer Science student steps beyond technology’s “comfort zone”One of the most valuable aspects of Minh’s experience at NUS has been the academic program itself.This semester, Minh is taking five courses spanning image processing, data mining, Generative AI, AI governance, and history. This combination allows him to explore technology not only from a technical perspective but also through its connections with business, governance, and society.Through EE4704 – Image Processing and Analysis and BT4222 – Mining Web Data for Business Insights, Minh continues to strengthen his knowledge of image processing, computer vision, and web data mining.Meanwhile, IS4401 – Generative AI and Business Applications and IS4246 – Smart Systems and AI Governance raise broader questions: How can AI be effectively applied in real-world contexts? How should intelligent systems be developed and governed to ensure responsibility, transparency, and sustainable value?GEC1037 – Big Picture History adds a distinctly different dimension, taking a Computer Science student beyond familiar technical problems and encouraging him to consider technological development within the broader context of history and society.This interdisciplinary approach is helping Minh realize that technical expertise is essential for going further in technology, but it is not enough on its own. Technology professionals also need to understand the issues their work affects and the responsibilities that come with every solution they create.Beyond coursework: proactively seeking research opportunitiesAlongside his courses, Minh is actively seeking opportunities to engage in research at NUS, particularly in areas that interest him, including Edge Device Systems, Transformer architectures, and Reinforcement Learning.For Minh, research is not simply another experience to add to his academic profile. Entering a new research environment gives him an opportunity to observe how international research teams formulate questions, develop ideas, exchange academic perspectives, and gradually turn research questions into tangible outcomes.The foundation Minh has developed through UIT’s Talent Program in Computer Science has also given him greater confidence as he enters a new academic environment. At the same time, the experience is helping him identify the skills and knowledge he still needs to strengthen if he wishes to pursue advanced research in the future.An international semester that goes beyond the classroomBeyond lectures and coursework, Singapore itself has become another classroom for Minh.Trekking through green spaces, exploring Merlion Park and Marina Bay, experiencing the Singapore Night Festival, and simply spending time with friends from different countries have given him new ways to understand the place he now calls home for the semester.More importantly, studying and working alongside people with different cultural backgrounds, experiences, and ways of thinking has encouraged Minh to listen, communicate, and adapt. These are skills that cannot be fully developed through textbooks alone, yet they are essential for students aspiring to participate in global academic and professional environments.From UIT to NUS: opening another door to the worldLooking back on his first month, Minh believes that his years at UIT have provided him with an important foundation for entering a new academic environment with greater confidence.“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, for providing me with a strong academic foundation, building my confidence, and creating opportunities for me to study at NUS. The knowledge and experiences I gained at UIT continue to accompany me throughout this journey,” Minh shared.Thirty days are only the beginning of a semester. Ahead are more challenging courses, research opportunities to pursue, and many experiences that cannot yet be anticipated.Perhaps that is precisely where the value of an international exchange lies. Students do not go abroad simply to see another university or experience another country. They step into a broader environment where they can reflect on what they already know, recognize what they still need to learn, and discover how far they want to go.From UIT to NUS, Nguyen Van Minh’s journey is also one of many stories of a generation of UIT students proactively stepping into the world with knowledge, capabilities, and a strong desire to learn.Wishing Minh a semester filled with meaningful experiences, memorable academic milestones, and many new stories to bring back to UIT from his DiscoverNUS journey! 

Beyond lecture halls, laboratories, and technology classes, the journey at the University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT) is also shaped by experiences, friendships, and the communities students choose to be part of.The UIT Clubs – Teams – Groups Festival 2026 brought together a vibrant student community, offering students, especially K2026 freshmen, an opportunity to discover the many dimensions of university life, meet peers with shared interests, and explore new ways to grow from their very first days at UIT.Discovering another side of UIT beyond the classroomAs part of the activities welcoming the new academic year, the UIT Clubs – Teams – Groups Festival 2026 brought together a wide range of student clubs, teams, groups, and students from across the University.The campus came alive with colorful booths, distinctive concepts, and interactive experiences. From academics and technology to culture and arts, sports, communications, volunteering, and community engagement, each club, team, and group offered a different glimpse into student life at UIT.Rather than simply introducing themselves, many student organizations invited visitors to join games and challenges, explore projects and products, and take part in hands-on activities. Conversations at the booths also gave students a better understanding of the communities they might join, the experiences ahead, and the skills they could develop along the way.When K2026 starts looking for its “team”One of the highlights of this year’s Festival was the enthusiastic participation of K2026 freshmen.Some initially stopped by simply to take a look. Soon, they were talking with club members, taking on challenges, scanning QR codes, and finding out how to join the communities that caught their interest.The first days of university bring many changes: new classes, new friends, new ways of learning, and an entirely new environment. At this stage, student communities can become some of the first connections that help freshmen settle into university life and find a sense of belonging.A conversation lasting only a few minutes at a booth today could become the beginning of a friendship, a team, or a journey lasting throughout their years at UIT.In that sense, the Festival is like a “map of experiences” for K2026, inviting freshmen to discover a broader UIT beyond the classroom and begin answering a simple question: What do I want my university years to be filled with?University life is more than the number of credits earnedSome of the most valuable lessons at university are learned outside the classroom.It may be the first time a student picks up a camera to cover a major event, steps onto a stage in front of hundreds of people, competes in a tournament, develops a technology product with teammates, organizes a program, carries out a community project, or volunteers in a new place.Through these experiences, students learn to collaborate, manage their time, communicate, solve problems, take responsibility, and adapt to situations where there is no ready-made answer.More importantly, clubs, teams, and groups give students the space to try something new and discover abilities they may never have had the opportunity to explore before.For technology students, these experiences are increasingly valuable. Today’s workplace requires more than technical expertise; collaboration, creativity, communication, and adaptability are equally important. Experiences beyond the classroom therefore become an essential part of students’ holistic development.The communities that bring color to student life at UITEvery club, team, and group at UIT has its own identity, yet they share one common purpose: creating spaces where students can connect through their interests, abilities, and shared values.Academic clubs enable students to deepen their knowledge and explore research, competitions, and technology projects. Cultural and arts clubs provide opportunities to develop talents and enrich their creative lives. Sports teams promote physical well-being and teamwork. Communications groups open doors to photography, design, and content creation, while volunteering and community initiatives connect students with broader social issues.This diversity helps create a university environment where every student can find a place that suits them. Students do not need to arrive with experience or be the most outstanding person in the room. Sometimes, an unforgettable journey begins simply with curiosity and the decision to try something new.Creating an environment for holistic student developmentThe UIT Clubs – Teams – Groups Festival 2026 was more than an opportunity for student organizations to showcase their activities and welcome new members. It also reflected the diversity and vitality of UIT’s student experience ecosystem.Alongside education, research, and innovation in technology, UIT continues to create opportunities for students to develop through academic activities, sports, culture and arts, skills development, and community service. These experiences contribute to shaping students who possess not only professional expertise but also initiative, responsibility, collaboration skills, and the adaptability needed for an increasingly dynamic world.For K2026, the university journey has only just begun. Classes have started, the first courses are already on their schedules, but the years ahead still hold plenty of space to be filled with experiences, friendships, and memorable milestones.And perhaps one of the most unforgettable stories of their time at UIT will begin with something as simple as stopping by a booth and thinking: “Why not give this club a try?”

On September 4, 2026, the sounds of flutes, string instruments, drums, and other traditional instruments filled the campus of the University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT), as the school-based traditional music program “Dệt Thanh Âm Việt” (Weaving the Sounds of Vietnam) came to life.Held at the beginning of the new academic year, the program offered UIT students a distinctive cultural experience while contributing to the implementation of the spirit of Resolution No. 80-NQ/TW of the Politburo on the development of Vietnamese culture: fostering the holistic development of individuals, creating a human-centered cultural environment in educational institutions, and bringing arts and cultural heritage closer to younger generations.LETTING TRADITIONAL MUSIC BECOME A NATURAL PART OF STUDENT LIFEAt a university often associated with lines of code, artificial intelligence, data, and emerging technologies, “Dệt Thanh Âm Việt” brought a different rhythm to campus.Within the familiar surroundings of UIT, students had the opportunity to listen to traditional melodies, observe musical instruments up close, and discover how artists bring each distinctive sound to life.What made the program special was not simply the presence of traditional music on a university campus, but the way cultural heritage was introduced through an engaging and accessible experience for young people. Curiosity sparked by an unfamiliar instrument, a melody, or a performance technique could become the starting point for students to discover and better understand values passed down through generations.In this way, culture extends beyond textbooks and exhibition spaces. It can be experienced firsthand, woven naturally into campus life, and sustained through the curiosity and appreciation of younger generations.FROM THE SPIRIT OF RESOLUTION NO. 80-NQ/TW TO MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES ON CAMPUSResolution No. 80-NQ/TW of the Politburo on the development of Vietnamese culture identifies culture and human development as a foundation, an important endogenous resource, and a driving force for the country’s rapid and sustainable development.The Resolution also emphasizes the importance of fostering healthy cultural environments across families, schools, society, and digital spaces; promoting the comprehensive development of Vietnamese people in ethics, intellect, physical well-being, and aesthetics; strengthening arts education in educational institutions; and creating opportunities for students to regularly engage in artistic activities and cultural heritage education.Inspired by this vision, “Dệt Thanh Âm Việt” goes beyond a traditional music performance. It translates broader directions for cultural development into a tangible and engaging university experience, giving students opportunities to encounter traditional arts, deepen their understanding of Vietnamese cultural identity, and cultivate an appreciation for preserving the nation’s cultural heritage.A TECHNOLOGY UNIVERSITY WHERE THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE GOES BEYOND TECHNOLOGYAs a higher education institution specializing in information and communication technology education and research, UIT is closely associated with science, innovation, and the technologies shaping the future. Yet a meaningful university journey is built on more than classrooms, computer labs, and research facilities.A holistic educational environment also creates opportunities for students to enrich their inner lives, develop cultural appreciation, broaden their understanding of society, and recognize the values they inherit from previous generations.“Dệt Thanh Âm Việt” therefore becomes another meaningful part of the UIT student experience. Between classes in algorithms, artificial intelligence, data science, and computer engineering, students can also pause to listen to the sounds of traditional instruments, discover the stories behind them, and experience Vietnamese culture from a different perspective.Technology and culture are not separate paths. Together, they can help shape a generation capable of mastering emerging technologies while remaining connected to and appreciative of the cultural values that define their identity.WHEN TRADITION IS CARRIED FORWARD BY A NEW GENERATIONResolution No. 80-NQ/TW emphasizes the need to harmonize tradition and modernity, national identity and international integration, preservation and development. It also recognizes the role of science, technology, and innovation in creating new spaces for cultural development. Within a technology university, this opens up even greater possibilities.Today’s students are not merely recipients of culture. Equipped with knowledge of technology, data, digital communications, design, and artificial intelligence, young people can become creators who bring traditional values to wider audiences in new ways.A traditional melody can be reimagined through a digital product. A traditional musical instrument can be introduced through interactive technology. A cultural story can reach millions through digital platforms.Creating opportunities for students to encounter, understand, and appreciate cultural heritage during their university years is therefore also a way of planting the seeds for Vietnamese culture to be preserved, reimagined, and shared in the digital age.TECHNOLOGY OPENS THE FUTURE, CULTURE GIVES IT DEPTHThrough “Dệt Thanh Âm Việt,” UIT continues to broaden the student experience beyond academic and professional training, working toward an educational environment where students can develop comprehensively in knowledge, skills, cultural awareness, and responsibility to the community.The program also reflects UIT’s efforts to put the spirit of Resolution No. 80-NQ/TW into practice by integrating culture more deeply into the educational environment, expanding students’ access to the arts, and nurturing confidence, pride, and a sense of responsibility for preserving Vietnamese cultural identity among younger generations.On this journey, technology equips young people to step confidently into the future, while culture gives them the depth to understand who they are, appreciate what they have inherited, and decide what values they wish to carry with them into the world.“Dệt Thanh Âm Việt” therefore leaves behind more than the echoes of traditional music on a morning at the beginning of a new academic year. It offers another way for Vietnamese culture to remain vibrant, relevant, and naturally present in the lives of UIT students today.

UIT Basketball concluded an energetic campaign at the 2026 Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM) Student Sports Festival with several memorable highlights. Although the UIT Men’s Basketball Team ended its campaign in the group stage, the players delivered highly competitive performances and fought with determination until the final minutes of every game.The UIT Women’s Basketball Team, meanwhile, made an impressive debut at the Student Sports Festival. Competing in the tournament for the first time, the team advanced all the way to the championship game and secured the Runner-up title. The achievement reflected strong teamwork, mutual support on the court, and composure during the most intense moments of the competition.Congratulations to the UIT Women’s Basketball Team on an outstanding Silver Medal performance, and recognition also goes to the UIT Men’s Basketball Team for their determination and competitive spirit throughout the tournament.One tournament, two different journeys, but the same UIT colors and spirit — stepping confidently onto the court, giving their all in every game, and continuing to pursue new milestones.

On August 1, 2026, the Closing Ceremony of the UIT Green Summer Volunteer Campaign 2026 was held in a warm and heartfelt atmosphere at Hall C of the University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT). The event marked the conclusion of a meaningful journey filled with memorable experiences and lasting contributions made by UIT students across multiple communities.From the early days of preparation, training sessions, and fundraising activities to the Launch Ceremony and volunteer missions at various campaign sites, UIT volunteers worked together to create a remarkable summer defined by enthusiasm, responsibility, and a strong commitment to community service. Every project completed, every activity carried out, and every smile shared with local residents and children became part of a meaningful story shaped by the dedication of UIT youth.The ceremony was honored by the presence of Assoc. Prof. Vu Duc Lung, Deputy Secretary of the UIT Party Committee and Vice Rector; Phung Thi Dieu Huong, Secretary of the VNU-HCM Youth Union Affairs Committee; Vo Phan Thanh Huong, Officer of the VNU-HCM Youth Union Affairs Committee; Nguyen Thanh Hiep, Member of the UIT Party Committee and Secretary of the UIT Youth Union; members of the Campaign Command Committee; and all volunteers participating in the UIT Green Summer Volunteer Campaign 2026.More than an occasion to reflect on the journey, the Closing Ceremony provided an opportunity for the Campaign Command Committee to review key achievements, express appreciation to organizations and individuals who supported the campaign, and recognize the dedication and contributions of volunteer teams throughout the program. Amid applause and bright smiles was also a sense of nostalgia as a memorable chapter of student life officially came to an end.The UIT Green Summer Volunteer Campaign 2026 may have concluded, but the lessons learned, friendships formed, experiences gained, and spirit of volunteerism will remain valuable companions as each volunteer continues to grow. The enthusiasm nurtured throughout the campaign is expected to inspire UIT students to continue contributing their knowledge, skills, and energy to future community initiatives.UIT extends its sincere appreciation to the Campaign Steering Committee, Campaign Command Committee, partner organizations, volunteer teams, and every student volunteer who contributed to making the campaign a meaningful success.As one journey comes to an end, new ones await — where UIT’s young volunteers will continue to bring their knowledge, enthusiasm, and spirit of service to communities and create new stories of youth, dedication, and positive impact.

“I packed 20 kilograms of luggage for 18 days, but came home carrying far more than I had brought.”In July 2026, Huynh Ngoc Bao, a student from the Faculty of Computer Science at the University of Information Technology, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UIT), embarked on a journey to Singapore and Indonesia to participate in the ASEAN Summer @NTU Programme 2026.Eighteen days, two countries, two learning environments, and friendships with people from diverse cultural backgrounds transformed an international summer program into something far more meaningful. For Bao, it became a journey that broadened his perspective on technology, deepened his understanding of the value of community, and, most importantly, showed him that young people sometimes discover their true limits only after finding the courage to step beyond them.A Journey into the UnknownBefore departing, Bao imagined that the ASEAN Summer @NTU Programme 2026 would resemble many other international academic programs: lectures, workshops, group projects, and field trips.His suitcase, limited to 20 kilograms, contained everything he would need for the next 18 days. In his mind, however, there was a mixture of excitement and uncertainty as he prepared for his first academic journey across two countries — wondering about the new environments, the people he would meet, and his own ability to adapt.Yet it was precisely those unknowns that made the journey worthwhile.His first destination was Nanyang Technological University (NTU Singapore), where Bao explored topics ranging from the circular economy and renewable energy to smart cities through lectures, workshops, and experiential learning activities.Subjects that initially seemed distant from computer science gradually became relevant when placed in the context of real-world challenges: How can waste become a raw material for new products? What role could water-based batteries play in future energy systems? How can reinforcement learning enable air-conditioning systems to operate more intelligently and efficiently?Bao began to realize that the knowledge he was acquiring did not exist in isolation within a single discipline.An algorithm could contribute to energy efficiency. Data could reshape how a city operates. A technological solution could create environmental and social impacts far beyond its original technical purpose.The question was no longer simply, “How does this technology work?”It became, “What problem can this technology solve for people?”That marked the first significant shift in how Bao viewed the field he had chosen to pursue.From Singapore to Yogyakarta: Two Places, Two Approaches to Creating ChangeIf Singapore showed Bao how science and technology could be deployed within a highly developed urban environment, his next destination — Yogyakarta — offered a very different perspective on innovation.At Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), the learning journey continued, but in a new context. Through experiential activities and an exploration of local waste-management practices, Bao observed how environmental challenges could be addressed by solutions rooted in the needs and resources of local communities.The contrast between the two destinations left a strong impression on him.In Singapore, Bao witnessed the power of technology, infrastructure, and the ability to implement solutions at scale. In Yogyakarta, he discovered the strength of grassroots initiatives — solutions shaped by everyday realities and driven by direct community participation.Though seemingly different, the two experiences ultimately led to the same question: What makes a solution truly sustainable?For Bao, the answer gradually became clearer. A solution does not necessarily need to be highly complex or built on the most advanced technology to create meaningful impact. What matters is whether it fits the local context, addresses the right problem, and is accepted by the community it is designed to serve.From lectures at NTU to community-based experiences in Yogyakarta, Bao began to see more clearly the connection between technology and people. Technology may provide the tools to solve problems, but human needs and social contexts ultimately determine whether those tools can create genuine value.For a Computer Science student, this was a lesson that extended far beyond the 18 days of the summer program. It could influence how he approaches the design and development of technology products in the years ahead.When Strangers Become Part of the JourneyHad the ASEAN Summer @NTU Programme 2026 consisted only of lectures and field trips, it would still have been a memorable academic experience.What made the journey truly special for Bao, however, were the people he met along the way.On the first day, they arrived as strangers. Each person brought a different academic background, culture, communication style, and set of experiences.Gradually, those differences became bridges rather than barriers.They worked together to solve problems, debated ideas, divided responsibilities for group projects, and learned to reach common ground despite approaching the same issue from different perspectives.Skills that might seem familiar — communication, teamwork, active listening, and critical thinking — took on entirely new dimensions in a multicultural environment.Bao learned not only how to express his ideas clearly enough for others to understand, but also how to listen carefully enough to understand why someone else might see the same problem from an entirely different perspective.And friendships were built far beyond the classroom.There were days spent exploring Singapore and Yogyakarta together, cultural exchanges, outdoor activities, shared meals, and conversations that were never part of the official schedule.They talked about their universities, hometowns, daily lives, and aspirations for the future. Through these ordinary conversations, a much larger world gradually unfolded before Bao — not through maps or textbooks, but through the people sitting beside him.At that point, an “international experience” was no longer simply about a Vietnamese student studying in Singapore or Indonesia.It was about learning how to live, study, and work alongside people whose backgrounds and perspectives were different from his own.You Do Not Have to Be Perfect Before Stepping into the WorldThe 18-day journey also gave Bao an opportunity to reflect on himself.In an international environment, young people may easily feel that they are not skilled enough, confident enough, or sufficiently prepared. But with each day of learning and new experiences, Bao came to realize that no one needs to know everything before taking the first step.“You don’t have to wait until you are perfect before stepping into an international environment. What matters more is taking initiative, being willing to learn, adapting to change, and having the courage to step outside your comfort zone.”The knowledge and skills Bao had developed during his studies at UIT provided a strong foundation for participating in academic activities and collaborative projects. The international environment, however, placed those capabilities in an entirely new context — one that required him to take greater initiative, adapt more quickly, and remain open to learning from those around him.What Bao brought home, therefore, was not the feeling that he had somehow become “good enough” after 18 days.Instead, he returned with a clearer understanding of what he still needed to improve — and greater confidence that those gaps could be filled through continued learning and experience.Perhaps this is also one of the most important values that international learning opportunities can offer UIT students. Each journey does more than add another destination to the map. It places students in an environment different enough to encourage them to reassess their abilities, perspectives, and aspirations.The Suitcase HomeAfter 18 days, the journey came to an end.The lectures concluded. Group projects were completed. Field trips became photographs stored on phones. Friends who had studied and explored two cities together returned to their own universities, countries, and individual paths.Bao returned to Vietnam as well.His suitcase could still carry no more than 20 kilograms, but what he brought home with him was far greater than what he had packed at the beginning.He returned with a broader perspective on technology — one in which a Computer Science student looks beyond algorithms and systems to consider the people and social impact behind every technological solution.He returned with lessons from two destinations: Singapore demonstrated the power of technology and solutions implemented at scale, while Yogyakarta showed how community-driven initiatives can also create meaningful and lasting change.He returned with friendships formed among people who had once been complete strangers, along with greater confidence in his ability to learn, adapt, and connect in an international environment.Above all, he returned with a new understanding of what it means to step outside one’s comfort zone: there is no need to wait until everything is perfect before beginning.The ASEAN Summer @NTU Programme 2026 lasted only 18 days. But the lessons from Bao’s journey through Singapore and Indonesia are likely to remain with him for much longer.Because sometimes, the greatest value of a journey is not measured by how far we travel.It is measured by how differently we see the world — and ourselves — when we return.

On July 25, 2026, members of UIT’s Volunteer Task Force and Communications Team carried out a community outreach initiative across neighborhoods in Long Hai Commune, assisting local residents with the installation, activation, and use of digital applications, including the Ho Chi Minh City Digital Citizen app and eTax Mobile.With enthusiasm and a strong sense of responsibility, UIT volunteers provided hands-on guidance, helping residents with essential tasks ranging from installing applications, logging into accounts, and updating personal information to accessing information services, submitting online feedback and requests, and using digital public services.Through the Ho Chi Minh City Digital Citizen app, residents can access information on administrative procedures, look up administrative records, and track the processing status of applications across various public service areas. The platform also enables users to provide feedback and evaluate the quality of services delivered by government agencies responsible for handling administrative procedures.Through eTax Mobile, residents received guidance on checking their tax obligations, making electronic tax payments, and fulfilling financial obligations such as non-agricultural land-use tax and personal income tax. These digital services provide a faster and more convenient way to complete tax-related procedures while reducing the time and travel costs associated with in-person transactions.Every successful support session, every activated account, and every satisfied smile from a local resident serves as motivation for UIT Green Summer 2026 volunteers to continue bringing digital transformation closer to the community.Through these practical initiatives, UIT students are contributing to the development of digital government, a digital society, and digitally empowered citizens in a rapidly evolving digital era.