In June 2025, SIM students took part in the H3 Vietnam Project under the Overseas Community Involvement Programme (OCIP). The trip was held in Tra Vinh, a village near Ho Chi Minh, and organised by Transformer, a subcommittee under the University of London Student Representative Club. Over two weeks, the team worked with the local community through teaching, cultural exchange, and construction.
Sharing Cultures in the Classroom
During lessons, students shared about Singapore’s heritage and food, such as Sultan Mosque, Chicken Rice and Laksa.
They also introduced traditional childhood games like five stones, colour sticks and country eraser. These simple activities helped to break the ice, and both groups enjoyed learning and laughing together.
Building the outdoor library space
Outside of the classroom, the team focused on building an outdoor library space. Tasks included laying concrete flooring, putting up walls and planting grass. The hot weather made the work challenging, but everyone supported one another and kept going. Completing the library was a proud moment for the team, knowing that it will be a useful space for the community. This trip was more than just volunteering. Through teaching and construction, students gained a better understanding of cross-cultural teamwork and how education can support community growth. Living among the locals also taught important lessons about humility, adaptability and respect. Even small contributions, when done with sincerity, can leave a lasting impact.