Vietnam Service Learning Trip (Jan 2025)

In January 2025, a group of 18 HKUST students and staff, in collaboration with ECO Vietnam Group (EVG), embarked on their inaugural service learning trip to Tra Vinh province, Vietnam. This initiative aimed to enhance education and youth development in rural areas where children often lack exposure to broader knowledge, limiting their potential for growth.

Before their journey, volunteers participated in workshops to familiarize themselves with Vietnamese culture and the challenges faced by local families and children. Equipped with new insights and design thinking skills, they developed interactive STEM activities intended to spark curiosity and inspire learning beyond traditional textbooks.

In addition to conducting STEM workshops, volunteers visited underprivileged households to gain a deeper understanding of the hardships faced by residents, including financial difficulties, health issues, and limited access to educational resources. This experience led to profound reflections on how individuals can positively impact communities in need.

The team also engaged in cultural exchange activities, organizing a community carnival for local youth to introduce them to diverse cultures. They participated in cooking classes led by local university volunteers, learned traditional fishing techniques with local youth, and explored museums, temples, and a local startup.

Throughout the trip, volunteers engaged in reflective practices, recognizing the transformative impact of their personal growth and the development of various soft skills, as well as contemplating the next steps in their service and learning journey.