Experiences of UTEP Faculty and Students in Da Nang: From Academic Exchange to Local Cultural Immersion
21/01/2026
Within the framework of cooperation between the University of Economics - The University of Danang and the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), USA, from January 9 to January 14, 2026, a delegation of UTEP faculty members and students participated in an academic and cultural exchange program at the University and in Da Nang City. The program aimed to provide international students with opportunities to experience a multicultural educational environment while gaining insights into Vietnam’s socio-economic conditions, history, and local way of life.
Experiencing Traditional To He Making
During the program, the UTEP delegation took part in a wide range of experiential learning activities. At the “To He Making Workshop,” students had hands-on experience in shaping and learning about this distinctive Vietnamese folk art. City tours brought the delegation to several iconic landmarks of Da Nang, including Linh Ung Pagoda, the Museum of Cham Sculpture, the Marble Mountains, as well as local markets, where participants also had the chance to enjoy Central Vietnam’s regional cuisine.
In addition, the delegation visited the My Son Sanctuary, a complex of Hindu temples of the ancient Champa Kingdom, combined with an introduction to Tra Kieu, the first capital of Champa. The program continued with an agricultural experience at Tra Que Vegetable Village in Hoi An, where students directly learned how to cultivate and harvest vegetables alongside local farmers, followed by a visit to the Hoi An Ancient Town and a tasting of local specialties.
Visiting Linh Ung Pagoda
Memorable Experiences at My Son Sanctuary and Bay Mau Coconut Forest
The UTEP delegation also explored the traditional craft village of Go Noi, engaging in activities such as learning about mat weaving, handicraft production, observing the processes of rice paper making and rice wine brewing. Students shared lunch with local families, took boat trips along the Thu Bon River, and observed the daily lives of local fishermen.
One of the highlights of the program was a cultural exploration of the Co Tu ethnic minority community. At Droong Village, participants experienced traditional brocade weaving and bamboo and rattan crafts, enjoyed a traditional lunch, and attended a cultural performance at the communal stilt house (Guol).
Trying Life as a “Farmer” at Tra Que Vegetable Village
Enterprise Visits
Alongside cultural and social activities, the University arranged enterprise visits to help UTEP students gain exposure to Vietnam’s real-world business and production environments. These visits provided valuable opportunities for dialogue, exchange, and broader perspectives on economic development, business management, and global integration.
Exploring the Traditional Culture of the Co Tu Ethnic People
The experience not only offered the UTEP delegation deeper understanding of Vietnam’s socio-economic landscape but also contributed to strengthening cultural exchange and cooperation between the two universities. Through such initiatives, the University of Economics - The University of Danang continues to affirm its pioneering role in expanding international partnerships and fostering a modern, globally integrated learning environment for students.