On February 6, 2026, Vinh University of Technology Education (VUTED) organized the program “Traditional Tet Binh Ngo 2026 – Vietnam–Laos Cultural Exchange and Experience Day” for Lao international students and Vietnamese students. The activity was coordinated by the Student Affairs Office in collaboration with the MentalHigh VUTED Project, with the participation of representatives from the Liaison Committee of Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and military experts who had supported Laos in Nghe An province. This was the 7th activity in the series “Mental Health Calendar for Students” at VUTED, aiming to promote cultural exchange, strengthen community connection, and support students’ mental wellbeing.
Figure 1. Banner of the Traditional Tet Binh Ngo 2026 program within the Mental Health Calendar series at VUTED.
During the exchange session, Vietnamese and Lao students shared perspectives on the cultural meaning of Tet traditions and the long-standing friendship between the two countries. Stories shared by former Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts who had worked in Laos helped students better understand the spirit of solidarity between Vietnam and Laos, fostering empathy, respect, and connection in a multicultural learning environment.
Figure 2. Vietnamese and Lao students interacting with former volunteer soldiers during the exchange session.
Students participated in traditional culinary experiences such as wrapping Banh Chung, making Vietnamese fresh spring rolls, and preparing Lao dishes including Larb and Som Lao. These activities allowed students to explore cultural traditions while encouraging cooperation and interaction in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Figure 3. Students participating in the traditional activity of wrapping Banh Chung.
Cultural activities such as Lamvong dance, bamboo dance, campfire gathering, and traditional rice wine tasting created a lively environment for social interaction. These shared experiences strengthened connections between Vietnamese and Lao students and contributed to a supportive and inclusive academic environment.
Figure 4. Cultural exchange activities strengthening connections between Vietnamese and Lao students.
Through traditional cultural experiences, students had opportunities to relax, enhance social connection, and improve emotional wellbeing. As part of the Erasmus+-funded MentalHigh project, the activity contributes to raising awareness of mental health and promoting a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for students.
Figure 5. The activity promotes community connection and positive mental wellbeing among students.