Vietnam's tradition of learning highlighted at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris

The events will help introduce Vietnam's long-standing tradition of learning to international friends.

The Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam Culture and Science Centre will organise a programme of cultural, artistic and exhibition activities under the theme "Quoc Tu Giam - Vietnam's First National University" at UNESCO Headquarters and the University of Montpellier.

At UNESCO Headquarters on June 17, international visitors will be able to explore a thematic exhibition on the history and development of Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam (Temple of Literature Complex), enjoy an artistic Ao Dai (traditional long dress) performance themed "Dao Hoc" (the tradition of learning), discover the culinary heritage of Thang Long-Hanoi and Vietnam, and take part in heritage activities, including woodblock printing of decorative motifs from the Doctors' Steles, printing of Khue Van Cac images, and learning about Dong Ho folk painting techniques.

The event at UNESCO Headquarters carries special significance as the 82 Doctors' Steles at Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam have been inscribed on UNESCO's Memory of the World Register, affirming the global value of Vietnam's tradition of learning. The programme, held during the General Assembly session of the 2003 Convention, will also contribute to promoting Vietnam's cultural heritage internationally.

From June 20-22, the programme will continue at the University of Montpellier with an exhibition on Quoc Tu Giam, heritage experience activities and an academic discussion titled "The Role of Cultural Heritage in Vietnam-France Relations", expected to attract scholars, researchers and students from both countries.

According to organisers, the event will honour the value of the first university in Vietnam's history and demonstrate the strong cooperation between Vietnam and France in cultural heritage research and preservation.

The University of Montpellier, one of Europe's oldest universities, is expected to serve as a meaningful venue for academic dialogue and cultural exchange between Vietnam and France.

More than 200 international delegates are set to attend the programme and witness Hanoi's thousand-year scholarly and cultural heritage being presented in France, as a contribution to the promotion of Vietnam's tradition of learning, respect for talent and cultural identity among the international community.

VOV