🌍🏙️Van Lang University Faculty and Students Visit NTPU: Strengthening International Academic Exchange and Urban Governance Dialogue 🌍🏙️
On March 17, 2025, the International College of Sustainability Innovations (ICSI), the International Program on Urban Governance (IPUG), and the Office of International Affairs (OIA) jointly welcomed 50 faculty members and students from the Faculty of Public Relations and Communications at Van Lang University (VLU), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This visit marked a significant cross-national and interdisciplinary academic exchange.
Founded in 1995, Van Lang University is named after the ancient Vietnamese kingdom Văn Lang and is one of the first private universities in Vietnam, operating under the administration of the Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training. Its Faculty of Public Relations and Communications is one of the top institutions in Vietnam in this field, with nearly 11,000 students.
A Warm Welcome & Insightful Introductions 🎤📚
The event began with a warm welcome speech from Dean Wei Wan-Ming of the International College of Sustainability Innovations. Following this, Senior Advisor Lo Kuo-Hui from the Office of International Affairs introduced the academic development and international collaborations of National Taipei University, giving the visiting faculty and students a deeper understanding of the university’s educational strengths. Director Chiu Shu-Yi of IPUG then presented an overview of ICSI and IPUG, highlighting the benefits of studying at NTPU and the vast potential for interdisciplinary development.
After the introductions, IPUG students led small group campus tours, guiding Van Lang University faculty and students through the university to experience its academic facilities and international learning environment firsthand.
Interactive Workshop: Exploring Urban Spaces 🏙️💡
In the afternoon, Assistant Professor Michal Grzegorzewski from IPUG conducted a specialized workshop titled “Reading of Urban Spaces: Meanings and Practices.” The session explored how urban spaces influence social interactions and public communication, sparking engaging discussions with VLU faculty and students. This dynamic exchange helped them view urban governance from new perspectives and consider how these insights can be applied to their own cities.
Expanding Global Engagement & Future Collaboration 🤝🌏
IPUG is committed to cultivating globally-minded urban governance professionals, encouraging students to participate in international academic activities to enhance their expertise and global competitiveness. This academic exchange not only strengthened the relationship between NTPU and its sister school, Van Lang University, but also provided a valuable opportunity for IPUG students to lead cultural and academic exchanges.
Furthermore, on March 18, four IPUG students accompanied VLU faculty and students on a field visit to the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, offering a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s urban diplomacy and creative identity.
Looking ahead, ICSI and IPUG will continue fostering international exchanges with Van Lang University, promoting further bilateral visits and collaborations to enhance NTPU’s global engagement and academic network. 🌎✨
