On 31 January 2026, the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH) brought together students, lecturers and staff for “Vị Tết 2026”, a vibrant celebration of the Lunar New Year that fostered cultural exchange, strengthened community bonds and promoted the spirit of giving.
More than a festive event, “Vị Tết” offered an opportunity for the USTH community to experience the essence of Tet through traditional customs, interactive activities and meaningful charitable initiatives.
Preserving Traditions Through Bánh Chưng Making
At the heart of the celebration was the making of bánh chưng, Vietnam’s iconic square sticky rice cake and a cherished symbol of the Lunar New Year.
Rooted in the legend of Prince Lang Liêu, bánh chưng symbolises the Earth and embodies the values of gratitude, family reunion and prosperity. Vietnamese and international students joined USTH faculty and staff to learn the art of wrapping the traditional cakes, carefully assembling each ingredient while sharing stories about Vietnamese New Year traditions along the way.
Beyond a cultural activity, the experience became a meaningful way for participants from different backgrounds to connect and celebrate together.
Workshops and Folk Games Bring Childhood Memories to Life
The campus was also transformed into a lively festive space through a series of hands-on workshops and traditional folk games.
Participants enjoyed activities such as figurine painting, ô ăn quan (a traditional Vietnamese strategy game), sack races, blindfolded pot-breaking and team-based balloon challenges. Filled with laughter, creativity and friendly competition, these activities created an atmosphere that blended the charm of traditional Tet celebrations with the energy of contemporary campus life.
Sharing the Joy of Tet with the Community
As part of the programme, the USTH community also embraced the spirit of solidarity and compassion through several charitable initiatives.
Lecturers, staff and students visited the “Vì Ngày Mai” Healthcare and Vocational Training Centre for Young People with Disabilities and the “Kidney Village” at Bach Mai Hospital, where many patients undergo long-term dialysis treatment while courageously facing serious health challenges.
Although modest in size, the gifts and donations carried heartfelt messages of care and encouragement, reflecting USTH’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and promoting a culture of empathy and social responsibility.
At USTH, Tet is more than a celebration marked by colours, flavours and traditions. It is also a time to strengthen human connections, foster a sense of belonging and inspire acts of kindness.
Through every bánh chưng wrapped, every game played, and every gesture of generosity shared, “Vị Tết 2026” once again demonstrated the values that define the USTH community: openness, solidarity and a shared commitment to making a positive impact beyond the campus.
Some more photos of the event
