Project Vietality 24/25: Building Bridges Beyond Borders

Twenty-three students from NTU’s Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) Club embarked on Project Vietality 24/25, a 13-day service-learning journey in Tra Vinh Province, Vietnam, in collaboration with the non-profit organization ECO Vietnam Group (EVG).

Despite facing challenges such as adapting to new living conditions, unfamiliar food, and language barriers, the students committed themselves to EVG’s mission of uplifting underprivileged communities. They contributed to the construction of a boarding facility for Hoa Tan Commune and conducted lessons in English, Mathematics, and Science for children aged 7 to 15.

In addition to their contributions, the students immersed themselves in Vietnamese culture through meaningful experiences, including fishing, food exchanges, and a cultural night, which deepened their appreciation of the local way of life.

Cultural Exchange at Van Lang University

While in Ho Chi Minh City, the team visited Van Lang University, where they toured the campus, attended a cultural workshop on Vietnam’s traditional silk embroidery art, and participated in a friendly competition to design motifs for the national costume. Conversations with local undergraduates enriched their understanding of Vietnamese university life and strengthened cross-cultural connections.

Industry Exposure: Sustainability and Innovation in Action

LiMart: An eco-conscious start-up that recycles plastic waste into products such as soaps, diffusers, and tote bags. The students had hands-on experience making tote bags from recycled plastic, learning how creativity and resilience can promote both sustainability and inclusivity.

Vicosap: A company that produces and distributes the renowned Macapuno coconut from Tra Vinh. Students sampled various coconut products, learned about the company’s heritage, and even tried their hand at candy-making and packaging. This visit showcased how innovation and green consumerism can support local communities while achieving a broader impact.

For many participants, the journey was transformative. Chloe Chua Pei Yi shared her thoughts: “This has been one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had at NTU. Going to Vietnam and connecting with the local community opened my eyes to the world and reminded me how important it is to appreciate the little things we often take for granted back home in Singapore.”

Project Vietality 24/25 not only impacted lives in Vietnam but also broadened the horizons of NTU CEE students, instilling resilience, empathy, and a renewed commitment to building a more compassionate and sustainable world.