Vietnam Immersiọn Program for Australian students (New Colombo Plan 2026)

In late June 2026, the Center for Vietnamese Studies and Language (VSLC) at Ton Duc Thang University welcomed 17 students from Griffith University and Queensland University of Technology (Australia) to participate in the Vietnam Immersion Program. These students were selected under the New Colombo Plan (NCP) 2026—a strategic foreign policy initiative by the Australian Government aimed at enhancing knowledge of the Indo-Pacific region for future leaders.

Taking advantage of the new priority in the NCP 2026 budget for native language training, VSLC partnered with Abroader Co., Ltd. to design a comprehensive 4-week experiential program. The program not only equipped students with practical conversational Vietnamese (greetings, navigation, daily activities, social interactions, etc.) but also focused on enhancing intercultural communication skills.

Throughout the course, the Australian students participated in a series of unique cultural workshops (traditional costumes, calligraphy, non la decorating, cooking classes) alongside field trips to Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi, and the Mekong Delta, as well as a volunteer English teaching activity for children. These experiences helped the students connect deeply with the local community and fully appreciate Vietnamese cultural identity.

After 4 weeks of vibrant activities, the program concluded successfully, leaving a lasting impression and notable academic results for the Australian students.