On 31 January 2026, the MentalHigh project team at Vinh University of Technology Education (VUTED) collaborated with the Faculty of Information Technology to organize MHC Activity 6 within the “Mental Health Calendar for Students” series. The program, themed “Folk Cultural Experience Space,” aimed to enhance students’ mental wellbeing by creating a supportive environment that encourages positive interaction, reduces stress, and strengthens social connection through collective physical activities.
Figure 1. Lecturers, the MentalHigh project team, and students taking a commemorative photo after the activity.
The activity attracted enthusiastic participation from students who engaged in various traditional folk games such as sack racing, tug of war, ball teamwork challenges, and cooperative group activities. These interactive experiences encouraged communication, teamwork, and mutual support among students, contributing to a sense of belonging and emotional comfort within the academic environment.
Figure 2. Students actively participating in the sack race competition.
Through active participation in group games, students had opportunities to relax, express emotions positively, and temporarily relieve academic pressure. Physical movement combined with teamwork helped improve mood, increase positive energy, and promote healthy coping behaviours. Such activities contribute to improving students’ ability to manage stress and maintain emotional balance during their studies.
Figure 3. Tug of war activity demonstrating teamwork and positive engagement.
The lively atmosphere created many joyful and humorous moments, strengthening connection among participants and promoting a friendly learning environment. The program encouraged students to interact openly, share experiences, and build supportive peer relationships, which are important protective factors for mental health in higher education settings.
Figure 4. Joyful moments reflecting positive emotions and connection among students.
At the end of the program, awards were presented to teams with outstanding performance, providing encouragement and recognition for active participation. As part of the Mental Health Calendar series, MHC 5 demonstrates how cultural and physical activities can effectively support mental wellbeing, strengthen social connection, and contribute to building a healthy, positive and supportive learning environment at VUTED.