Lao students from Northwest University receive a Certificate of Commendation from the Son La Provincial Youth Union. Photo: Minh Ngoc.

Northwest University currently has nearly 350 Lao students studying in undergraduate and bridging programs. Over the years, the university has continuously improved its facilities, enhanced the quality of education, and cared for the well-being of its students. Dr. Hoang Ngoc Anh, Vice Rector of the university, stated: "The university currently offers 24 undergraduate and bridging programs, and 2 postgraduate programs for students from provinces in Laos. The university always creates a favorable learning environment, provides textbook loans, focuses on innovating teaching methods, organizes study groups with instructor guidance, offers evening Vietnamese language classes, and strengthens extracurricular activities to ensure students have strong professional skills, good practical skills, and are well-integrated and developed comprehensively."

After three years of studying at Northwest University, Son Lu Xay - Phet Tham Ma Vong, from Luang Namtha province, currently a student in class K64 of the Geography Education program, has integrated well and actively participated in school activities. On the occasion of the traditional Bumpimay New Year in 2026, she was honored to receive a Certificate of Merit from the Son La Provincial Youth Union Executive Committee for her outstanding achievements in youth union work and youth movements. Son Lu Xay - Phet Tham Ma Vong shared: "In the beginning, I faced many difficulties with the language and learning methods. But thanks to the dedication of the teachers and the support of my friends, I gradually adapted. I consider Son La my second home. Through my time studying here, I understand more about Vietnamese culture and appreciate even more the special friendship between the two countries."

Lao students from Northwest University participate in a cultural performance program. Photo: Minh Ngoc

Along with focusing on professional training, educational institutions in the province regularly organize cultural, artistic, and sports exchange activities, contributing to strengthening the bond between Vietnamese and Lao students. At Son La Medical College, nearly 250 Lao students are currently enrolled. The school regularly organizes many meaningful activities such as celebrating the National Day of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, and celebrating Bunpimay and the Lunar New Year for Lao students. Traditional rituals such as tying threads around wrists and splashing water as blessings are held solemnly and warmly, demonstrating respect for the culture and sharing feelings for Lao students. This is also an opportunity for students from both countries to enhance mutual understanding, build close friendships, and foster a spirit of solidarity.

The wrist-tying ritual was held at Northwest University on the occasion of the Bunpimay New Year in 2026. Photo: Minh Ngoc.

Ms. Hoang Thi Thuy Ha, Principal of Son La Medical College, said: "The school focuses on training Lao students in fields that meet the human resource needs of the provinces in Laos, ensuring professional quality linked to practical experience. The institution has built a friendly learning environment, and in addition to teaching, regularly organizes cultural, artistic, and sports exchanges and commemorative programs to strengthen the bond between students of the two countries and create a foundation for long-term cooperation in training."

With over 1,000 Lao students studying at universities and colleges in the province, Son La always pays close attention to and supports their studies, encouraging them to pursue their education and implementing appropriate policies. Simultaneously, it ensures they have adequate learning and living conditions so they can focus on their studies and training. The educational environment plays a crucial role in imparting knowledge, while also contributing to building trust, strengthening bonds, and promoting understanding among different ethnic groups.

Lao students from Son La Medical College participate in a traditional Vietnamese New Year (Tet) making experience. Photo: Minh Ngoc

After their studies in Son La, each Lao student will carry with them a wealth of knowledge and positive feelings about Vietnam and its people in general, and Son La in particular. They are "ambassadors" of friendship, "bridges" that contribute to further strengthening the special friendship between Vietnam and Laos in general, and between Son La and the provinces of Laos in particular.

Vu Huyen