Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam – May 11 to May 16, 2024, thirty students from Rizal Technological University (RTU) participated in a collaborative study tour and training program hosted by Saigon Business School (SBS). This program was designed to foster academic exchange, professional development, and cultural understanding, providing participants with a comprehensive experience that blended educational activities with cultural immersion.

The program’s key activities included a city tour, company visits, workshops, and cultural exchange events. Participants explored Ho Chi Minh City’s rich cultural and historical landmarks, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, HCMC Post Office, Saigon Book Street, Ben Thanh Market, Takashimaya Shopping Center, and Nguyen Hue Walking Street. These visits provided students with valuable insights into the local heritage and pulsating atmosphere of the city.

A visit to a leading company in the region offered students practical industry experience and opportunities to network with professionals in Vietnam. This visit enhanced their understanding of the business landscape and professional practices in the country. Interactive workshops covered a range of topics aimed at enhancing the professional skills and knowledge of the students. These sessions were designed to provide practical, real-world applications of their academic studies and to prepare them for future career challenges.

Cultural exchange activities promoted understanding and fostered lasting connections between participants from both institutions. This included the Vietnam Discovery Workshop and a scavenger hunt, which encouraged students to engage actively with their surroundings and with each other. In addition to the city tour and workshops, the students visited universities and participated in structured activities designed to deepen their understanding of Vietnamese culture and build teamwork skills.

The students were chaperoned by Instr. Cyrille Anne Rafael from the International Affairs and Linkages Office and Instr. Mariel Dela Trinidad, Head of the Students and Alumni Affairs Services Unit. Their guidance and support were integral to the success of the program, ensuring that students maximized the benefits of this unique learning opportunity.

This collaborative study tour and training program exemplifies the commitment of both RTU and SBS to providing valuable opportunities for growth, learning, and collaboration. The program not only enhanced the academic and professional skills of the students but also promoted cultural exchange and understanding, contributing to the development of globally-minded professionals.