In the solemn atmosphere of international friendship, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Bich Ha – Head of the Japanese Language Faculty at the University of Languages and Social Sciences (LHSS), Duy Tan University – was honored to receive the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays from the Japanese Government. This is one of the highest distinctions, recognizing her exceptional contributions to Japanese language education and her efforts in promoting friendly exchange and strengthening the bond between the Vietnamese and Japanese peoples.
A Fifty-Year Connection and a Symbol of Dedication
The conferment ceremony was held with great solemnity, witnessed by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Vietnam, Mr. Ito Naoki, along with a distinguished gathering of scholars, guests, and colleagues in the field of linguistics. Notably, the event also featured the presence of Professor Furuta Motoo – her first teacher from her student days and later a close colleague over several decades – bringing a deeply moving and meaningful atmosphere to the occasion.
Sharing at the ceremony, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Bich Ha recalled a particularly special milestone in her life: "In September 1973, I began learning Japanese. That very same year, Vietnam and Japan officially established diplomatic relations. Back then, as a student just starting to learn Japanese, I never dared to imagine that more than half a century later, I would have the honor of receiving this prestigious award. Looking back on my journey, I realize ever more deeply that my life has always been intertwined with Japan, the Japanese language, and the path of friendship between Vietnam and Japan."
For her, receiving this Order is the greatest joy in the life of an educator, and a glorious milestone affirming the standing and professional reputation of the faculty at the University of Languages and Social Sciences, Duy Tan University, on the international academic map.
Education – The Miraculous Power Connecting Hearts
Throughout her career and contributions, especially as Head of the Japanese Language Faculty at LHSS, Duy Tan University, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Bich Ha has always been dedicated to guiding, inspiring, and building high-quality training programs. Her work has extended far beyond mere language instruction; she consistently integrates cultural values and global thinking to cultivate generations of students who are professionally competent and practically skilled.
However, when receiving this prestigious honor from the Japanese Government, this quiet connector remained humble: "This Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays is not solely for me. I have always felt that this award is for all the colleagues who have shared in the cause of Japanese language education with me, for generations of students who have embraced our shared ideals and are now bridges between Vietnam and Japan. Education is not just about transmitting knowledge or language; at its core, it helps us understand each other better, deepens trust, and nurtures friendship for the future."
She firmly believes that Vietnam-Japan friendship is not only shaped by macro-level policies but is quietly cultivated each day through every lesson, every teacher, and through the persistent efforts of generations of students within the university setting.
The Order of the Rising Sun not only honors the journey of over 50 years but also serves as a powerful source of motivation for this esteemed Head of Faculty to continue contributing. She affirmed that this award is not the final destination but a new beginning for her to continue serving through education. "Encountering the Japanese language in my youth was the greatest fortune in my life. If in the years to come I remain healthy, continue to cherish my passion for education, and can pass on to the younger generation the love and spirit of Vietnam-Japan friendship, then that would be the greatest happiness for me," she shared.
The event of Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Bich Ha receiving the Order of the Rising Sun is not only a source of personal pride but also a great honor for the entire faculty and student body of the University of Languages and Social Sciences and Duy Tan University. This achievement once again affirms the leading position, outstanding training quality, and comprehensive internationalization mission that the University consistently pursues.
