Building on the success of its first two iterations, the Luong Van Can Foundation reintroduced the Kindness Class in the summer of 2024 with the theme “Golden Forest, Silver Sea.” The program invited participants to engage with nature while gaining hands-on experience in understanding people and the communities we live in. This year’s course took place over four days across Ho Chi Minh City and Ba Ria – Vung Tau, welcoming 24 student participants. The curriculum blended theoretical learning with experiential activities, encouraging dynamic and holistic engagement with core concepts.

Day 1 – July 26, 2024: Scientific Thinking and Sustainable Food Chain Class in Ho Chi Minh City

The first day began with an opening session led by class coordinators Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Thao and Mr. Nguyen Trieu Trung, who introduced the goals of the 2024 summer program. Students engaged in icebreaker activities to connect with one another, share their personal interests, and articulate expectations for the course. The morning continued with a session titled “Applying Scientific Thinking to Sustainable Development Practices,” facilitated by Mr. Pham Nguyen Hoang Thinh – MSc in Theoretical Physics and CEO of STEMax Education. Mr. Thinh guided students through the fundamentals of critical thinking, particularly when evaluating information online. He emphasized the importance of academic integrity and trustworthy sources, and introduced key AI tools emerging in 2024 to enhance research and information processing.

In the afternoon, students attended a workshop on “The Sustainable Food Chain,” conducted by Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Thanh, a PhD candidate in Australia specializing in Sustainable Food Systems and Food Experiences of Migrants with Refugee Backgrounds. Through a multidimensional lens, the session explored how food systems impact the environment, society, and individuals. Students took part in practical activities that revealed the complexity of modern food supply chains and learned how a single disruption could jeopardize the sustainability or even the existence – of the entire system.

Day 2 – July 27, 2024: “Golden Forest – Silver Sea” Field Trip at Binh Chau – Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve

On the second day, students embarked on a field trip to the Binh Chau – Phuoc Buu Nature Reserve in Ba Ria – Vung Tau province. Immersed in the natural landscape, they explored the biodiversity of the forest ecosystem while observing the symbiotic relationship between humans and the environment. The day included journaling exercises, personal reflection, and opportunities to witness local conservation efforts, offering a deeper appreciation for the work being done to protect Vietnam’s forests.

Days 3 & 4 – July 28–29, 2024: Learning at the Forest Garden

The final two days of the program took place at the “forest garden,” home to Ms. Hang Mai—a sustainability advocate committed to living in harmony with nature. Together with her knowledgeable partner, Ms. Hang introduced students to the principles of sustainable living through hands-on exploration of her eco-home and garden.

Rather than offering abstract theory, Ms. Hang and her partner shared lived experiences, showing how sustainability can be practiced through everyday choices. Their forest garden represents a self-sustaining ecosystem, where every component—plants, animals, soil, and humans—interacts in balance. Students learned how such a model reflects an ecological lifestyle that is not only viable but vital for the future. Over four days of experiential learning, thoughtful dialogue, and fresh perspectives, Course 3 of the Kindness Class empowered students to better understand environmental sustainability, conservation, and intentional living. The program raised awareness about the importance of protecting nature while inspiring participants to adopt more mindful, eco-conscious habits.

The Luong Van Can Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to the instructors and partner organizations who made this program possible. We look forward to continuing our mission through future initiatives that empower Vietnamese students and young changemakers.

Source: Media team