HKUST Students Dive into Robotics and Global Political Economy at VinUniversity

September 17, 2024

After the success of the 2023 Inbound Student Program last year, from July 27 to August 25 this year, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has returned to VinUni for another month of exploring Vietnam, while participating in two credit recognition courses:  Introduction to Robotics and Automation and Global Political Economy: Vietnam-the Region-the World.

The Introduction to Robotics and Automation, offers a comprehensive look at robotic systems, from manipulators to industrial applications. Under the guidance of Dr. Do Tho Truong, Dr. Thai Mai Thanh, Dr. Nguyen Vu Linh, and Mr. Pham Van Kiem, students engage in both theoretical and hands-on learning. Mr. Max Tseng from HKUST reflected on the experience, stating, “The hands-on approach motivated me to think outside the box and understand how robotics and automation are deeply integrated into industries. Moreover, the field trips and expert insights further fueled my interest in robotics.

Dr. Thai Mai Thanh delivering lectures to HKUST students. 

Dr. Nguyen Vu Linh organizing robotics competition for HKUST students. 

In the Global Political Economy course, led by Dr. Anupama Devendrakumar, students examine global political and economic systems, with a focus on Vietnam’s regional role and historical context. The course features a blend of lectures, field trips, and interactive assignments. Ms. Li Tsun Kiu remarked, “The diverse class activities, including field trips, faculty panel discussion, photo-based storytelling, allowed me to learn in various methods that I hadn’t had a chance to try in Hong Kong.”

Dr. Anupama Devendrakumar delivering lectures to HKUST students. 

Beyond academic pursuits, the students from Hong Kong also engaged in various cultural activities and field trips to deep dive into Vietnamese culture. Besides multiple trips to Hanoi Old Quarters to explore the beauty of Hanoi, students also had the chance to learn about the history and culture at Temple of Literature, Hanoi Fine Arts Museum, Bat Trang Pottery Village, and appreciate the natural sceneries in Ha Long Bay. This year’s program also gave HKUST students the opportunity to learn from field experts through factory visits to Nutifood, Nestle, VinFast, and ZF, offering students insightful and practical knowledge about Vietnam’s industries.

HKUST students visiting Nutifood Factory