Academic and Cultural Exchange with California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), USA

On the morning of July 29, 2025, the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH), in collaboration with the Faculty of Labour Relations and Trade Unions and the Information Technology at Ton Duc Thang University (TDTU), warmly welcomed a delegation of faculty members and students from California State University, Fullerton (CSUF), USA. This visit was part of an international academic and cultural exchange program, aiming to foster mutual understanding, academic collaboration, and research partnerships in the field of Social Work.

Representing FSSH were Dr. Pham Thi Ha Thuong – Dean; Dr. Nguyen Minh Huan – Dean’s Assistant; Dr. Nguyen Thi Bich Dao – Vice Head of the Department of Tourism; Ms. Nguyen Thi Phuong Linh – Vice Head in charge of the Social Work Department; and Dr. Pham Thai Son – Vice Head of the Department of Tourism at the Khanh Hoa Branch. The CSUF delegation was led by Mr. Duan Tran and Assistant Professor Caroline Bailey, accompanied by 20 students.

The event featured a series of dynamic activities, including an introduction to TDTU’s Bachelor of Social Work program, student presentations on internship experiences at child protection agencies and healthcare institutions, and a showcase of the “Hearts to Hearts” academic club led by TDTU students. The CSUF representatives also shared valuable insights into the professionalization of social work in the United States. Additionally, students from both universities engaged in open discussions on social issues in Vietnam and the United States, encouraging cross-cultural dialogue and diverse perspectives.

As part of the exchange, the CSUF delegation toured the TDTU campus and experienced Vietnamese culture through a traditional coffee-making demonstration and cultural performances by TDTU students. The event left a lasting impression on all participants and marked the beginning of a promising and sustainable partnership between TDTU and CSUF.