For many American students, they only know about Vietnam through books, films or through lectures. But for a delegation of 12 students from Salisbury University, they get the chance to participate in voluntary work in the country on their first ever visit. Such activities have helped them grasp the big picture of present-day Vietnam.
The delegation was received by Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations on Wednesday. Here these students participated in voluntary work to support children with disabilities and children affected by Agent Orange at Vân Canh Friendship Village, Hanoi. This is part of their 2-week visit to learn more about the people and culture of Vietnam after the war decades ago.
"I am honoured to be here today. These children are adorable." - Alexis Howatt, Student, Salisbury University.
This is Doctor Bryan Horikami’s third visit to Vietnam. The country has experienced significant changes since the last time he was here.
"I first came to Vietnam in 2001, the country made a good impression on me. Through our visit this time, I want to show my students the art of connecting people and helping each other in life. Our voluntary work at Vân Canh Friendship Village helped us understand the consequences of war, urging us to initiate similar campaigns in the future.' - Bryan Kenji Horikami, Head, Information Arts Department, Salisbury University.
The 2-week visit in northern Vietnam aims to help students from Salisbury University learn more about the history and people of Vietnam in the integration era.
"Vietnamese people are hospitable and everything here is wonderful. We hope to play a part in supporting the unfortunate people in this country." - Christopher Peterson, Student, Salisbury University.
"I’m in love with the hospitality and humanity of Vietnamese culture and people. The citizens are modest and open-hearted despite numerous hardships. This is something I’ve enjoyed learning." - Kristopher Horvath, Student, Salisbury University.
Vietnamese people have been working side by side with friends from the US to overcome consequences of war in Vietnam. Further programmes are expected to take place in the future, strengthening the co-operation and friendship between the two countries.
