Hanoi (VNA) – A series of activities on US studies was launched in Hanoi on 25 November, marking the 30th anniversary of Vietnam–US diplomatic relations (1995–2025).
The programme is jointly organised by the University of Social Sciences and Humanities under Vietnam National University, Hanoi and the US Embassy in Vietnam.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Dang Thi Thu Huong, Vice Rector of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, highlighted the university’s 80-year tradition and its role as one of Vietnam’s leading educational institutions in the social sciences and humanities. Over the decades, the university has trained generations of students across fields such as history, international relations, political science, literature, culture studies, journalism–communications, and regional studies, including US studies.
She said that with support from the US Embassy and the Asia Foundation, the US studies programme was first introduced at the university in 2003 and became an official department in 2004. Since then, it has played a key role in advancing US studies in Vietnam and supporting teaching and research across universities nationwide.
Huong emphasised that the university is not only a centre for training and research but also an important policy advisory body for the Party and the State. In this context, developing a balanced and in-depth understanding of major partners, especially the US, is essential.
She said US studies is more than an academic programme it is a gateway for Vietnamese youth to gain insight into one of the world’s most influential countries, and to participate in constructive discussions on global issues. The university's long-standing cooperation with the US Embassy enriches its curriculum, promotes research, and expands opportunities for students and lecturers, she added.
As part of the event series, the “Discovering the US” competition took place immediately after the opening ceremony. The contest encouraged greater interest in the US and its people among the youth and aimed to strengthen understanding, initiative, and commitment to further deepening Vietnam–US relations.
Four teams from leading universities in Hanoi participated in three rounds covering general knowledge, advanced topics, and English-language public speaking on Vietnam–US relations. The format helped students deepen their understanding of key events and figures while developing critical thinking and communication skills.
The programme will continue with a training workshop on December 5–6 for lecturers and students from universities in Hanoi, Thai Nguyen, Hue, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. The workshop will update participants on contemporary US studies, including culture, politics, economy, and social issues. It will feature lectures and practical sessions on course design delivered by US professors with international experience.
The organisers expect the workshop to enhance academic capacity, encourage critical thinking, promote meaningful engagement between students and experts, and strengthen networks among institutions and scholars in US studies, toward unified teaching materials on US studies for related programmes across the country./.
