Lao students are pictured with the five-fruit fruit tray they decorated themselves. VNA/VNS Photo Phan Sáu

KHÁNH HÒA Nha Trang University in the central province of Khánh Hòa has held a wide range of activities to help foreign students experience the Tết (Lunar New Year), the biggest festival of the year for Vietnamese people.

Accordingly, they have chances to understand more about the culture and customs of welcoming Tết in Việt Nam.

Noksomboun Bouavankham, a 4th-year Lao student majoring in Aquaculture, said this is her fourth year celebrating Tết in Việt Nam.

"In previous years, I learned how to make bánh chưng (square sticky rice cake) and arrange flowers for Tết. This year, I tried making a tray of five fruits," she said.

"Celebrating Tết at the university amid the warm affection of teachers, classmates and fellow countrymen, I feel very joyful and happy. During my years in Việt Nam, I have learned a lot of knowledge and culture, especially about the traditional Tết customs of the Vietnamese people," she added.

Another Lao student, Vongsay Phetmany, said she was impressed by the atmosphere before Tết. During the cultural programme held at Nha Trang University, she joined in decorating the fruit tray and playing traditional games.

"I find cultural exchange programmes very beneficial, especially for first-time international students celebrating Tết in Việt Nam like me.

"During Tết, I plan to visit the pagoda to pray for peace for my family and loved ones, following Vietnamese customs," Phetmany said.

On this occasion, the university also presented Tết gifts to foreign students.

According to Associate Professor, Dr Nguyễn Thế Hân, Head of the International Cooperation Department at Nha Trang University, cultural exchange activities with international students from countries such as the US, South Korea and Laos have been regularly organised by the university.

"The activities aim to create opportunities and a festive atmosphere for local and international students who stay on campus to experience the warm atmosphere of Tết, thereby creating their own beautiful memories of Vietnamese culture," he said.

Vice Rector Phạm Quốc Hùng expressed his hope that exchange programmes will help spread positive messages and promote Việt Nam's culture to international friends, contributing to tightening Việt Nam's friendship with other countries. VNS