SCHOOL VISIT - HONG DUC SCHOOL 🏫

Cultures in Sync

Today was the day our Canberrans had been waiting for — the school exchange with Hong Duc High School. The morning was filled with laughter, learning, and plenty of movement.

Our students learnt more about Vietnamese culture and school life, joining in the traditional bamboo dance and trying very hard not to get their feet caught between the bamboo poles!

In return, our Canberrans shared a piece of Singapore's childhood, introducing their new friends to five stones, pick-up sticks, and kuti-kuti — games that brought back nostalgic memories for some and created brand new ones for others.

Beyond the games, they discovered how sports truly transcend culture and language. A friendly match of football, a round of volleyball, badminton sessions, and even a cycling challenge to see who could go the slowest — all broke down barriers and brought everyone together in laughter and teamwork.

Different countries, different games — same laughter, same fun. That's all it takes to make new friends.

WAR REMNANTS MUSEUM 🪖

War Remnants Museum

After lunch, our Canberrans visited the War Remnants Museum, where photographs, artefacts, and first-hand accounts told the story of the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective.

The students learnt about survival during the conflict — the food people ate, how they purified water to drink, and how prisoners endured harsh conditions with very little sustenance. They also learnt about the war crimes committed against civilians and the long-term suffering caused by Agent Orange, which affected not just soldiers but generations of innocent people.

The experience taught our Canberrans that war brings great pain and loss to everyone involved. It reminded them to value peace, to resolve conflicts through understanding rather than violence, and to appreciate the safety and stability they enjoy in Singapore. As one student reflected, the visit made them realise the importance of empathy — to see history not just as facts and dates, but as real human experiences that continue to affect people today.

SAIGON SKYDECK 

The day ended with a visit to the Saigon Skydeck, where our Canberrans took in panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City. During the debrief, they reflected on the difficult history they had witnessed at the museum, but also acknowledged the remarkable progress and perseverance that shaped Vietnam into the vibrant nation it is today. The students made meaningful connections between Vietnam's journey and their own experiences in Singapore, thinking about resilience, growth, and the future they want to help build.

Day 3 brought our Canberrans face-to-face with both the joy of cultural connection and the sobering realities of history. Through friendship, reflection, and perspective, they are learning what it truly means to be global citizens.