Da Nang, May 31, 2025 – The finals of the inaugural Central Region Vietnamese Speech Contest for International Students – Da Nang 2025 concluded vibrantly this morning at the University of Education, University of Da Nang. The event brought together 12 teams, with nearly 160 participants from various countries studying at institutions across Vietnam’s Central region.

Consolation Prize Win: The "Hồn Việt Duy Tân" team, with members positioned fifth and sixth from the left, proudly received the Consolation Prize for their outstanding performance in the competition.

Spotlight on "Hồn Việt Duy Tân" Team

The "Hồn Việt Duy Tân" team from Duy Tan University, featuring two Indian students – Vangala Sri Alaya Thanmay and Poola Lokpraneeth – left a lasting impression. Despite their short time learning Vietnamese, they clinched the Consolation Prize and the Most Impressive Talent Award, guided by dedicated lecturers from the School of Languages & Social Sciences (LHSS).

Speech Performance: Vangala Sri Alaya Thanmay and Poola Lokpraneeth captivated the audience with their eloquent Vietnamese speeches, sharing insights on "Vietnam-India Cultural Exchange: From Historical Heritage to Modern Life."

The competition consisted of two main parts:

• Speech: Contestants delivered presentations in fluent Vietnamese, lasting up to 10 minutes. Topics ranged from Vietnamese culture, people, and traditions to personal experiences of studying and living in Vietnam, the role of the Vietnamese language in global exchange, and social, educational, or environmental issues from an international student’s perspective.
• Talent Showcase: Participants displayed their unique skills, adding flair to the event.

Team and Mentors’ Keepsake Moment: The team, alongside their dedicated lecturers from the School of Languages & Social Sciences (LHSS), captured a joyful group photo to commemorate their shared journey at the contest.

The "Hồn Việt Duy Tân" team chose the topic "Vietnam-India Cultural Exchange: From Historical Heritage to Modern Life". Their presentation showcased a deep understanding of the ties between the two nations, blended with heartfelt personal insights about life in Vietnam. Their fluent and confident delivery captivated both the judges and the audience.

Alaya has been in Vietnam for just one year, while Praneeth arrived only three months ago. Despite their brief exposure to the language, their rapid progress and genuine passion for Vietnam’s language, people, and culture shone through. Their achievements reflect their dedication and enthusiasm.

The team’s success was bolstered by the Center for Vietnamese Language Training & Proficiency Assessment (TTĐT&ĐGNLTV) at LHSS, Duy Tan University. This center specializes in teaching Vietnamese to international learners and conducting proficiency tests based on the Vietnamese Language Proficiency Framework for Foreigners. Its well-structured program nurtures not only language skills but also a deep appreciation for Vietnamese culture and society.

The team’s talent performance set the stage alight with a dynamic dance cover of the song "Bắc Bling", coached by LHSS lecturers. Joined by 10 other Indian students, Alaya and Praneeth delivered an energetic, confident, and vibrant group act. Their synchronized moves, radiant expressions, and strong teamwork infused the performance with youthful energy and cultural fusion, earning them the Most Impressive Talent Award.

Talent Showcase: The team’s dynamic dance cover of "Bắc Bling", performed with 10 other Indian students, lit up the stage with energy, teamwork, and cultural flair, earning cheers from the crowd.

The Vietnamese Speech Contest is more than a platform for international students to showcase their language skills. It’s a chance to share personal stories, unique perspectives, and build cultural bridges between nations. Alaya and Praneeth’s achievements highlight their hard work and commitment to embracing Vietnam. Their success also underscores the vital role of the Center for Vietnamese Language Training & Proficiency Assessment in fostering language proficiency and connecting international students with Vietnamese culture.

Most Impressive Talent Award: Alaya and Praneeth (standing at the far right) were honored with the Most Impressive Talent Award for their vibrant and captivating group performance, a highlight of the event.

Though the contest has ended, the inspiring stories of cultural exchange and love for the Vietnamese language will continue to resonate, motivating young learners on their journey of discovery and growth.