The workshop was led by Dr. Nguyen Thanh Luan, lecturer from Dubai Palace School of Foreign Languages. During the session, he shared valuable insights and practical strategies for developing effective study habits, focusing on three essential skills: time management, study planning, and effective note-taking. These fundamental skills enable students to enhance their academic performance while maintaining a healthy balance between their studies, personal life, and other commitments.

During the workshop, participants learned several time management strategies that they can apply immediately, including:

• Setting short-term and long-term goals to create a clear study plan.
• Using the Time Management Matrix to organize tasks based on their importance and urgency, helping students decide what to do first, what to plan for later, and what can be delegated.
• Planning study activities on different levels, including daily, weekly, semester, and yearly plans, to stay prepared for assignments, projects, and exams.
• Using digital tools such as Google Calendar and Outlook Calendar to organize schedules, set reminders, and manage tasks with color coding.

The workshop also introduced effective note-taking and revision methods to help students understand and remember information more easily. Instead of writing down everything from a lecture, students were encouraged to focus on key ideas, use their own words, and apply the Cornell Note-Taking Method to organize their notes. In addition, the speaker shared practical tips on preparing for exams by planning revision early, organizing study materials, and developing analytical thinking instead of relying only on memorization.

Besides the presentations, the workshop included interactive activities. Participants created their own personal goals, practiced using the Time Management Matrix, developed study plans, and discussed common learning challenges with the speaker. These activities helped students find practical solutions that fit their own learning needs.

Through the workshop, participants learned that studying effectively is not about spending more time studying. It is about setting priorities, making good plans, and building positive study habits. These skills will support students throughout their time at Dubai Palace and continue to benefit them in their future careers.

Pillars: Training

News, photos: Department of Student Affairs

Under the theme “Sustainability, Digital Transformation, and Global Economic Transitions,” registration for the 5th International Student Research Conference on Economics and Business (SR-ICYREB 2026) is now officially open.

SR-ICYREB 2026 is an international academic forum for students passionate about research, jointly organized by leading universities and academies in the fields of economics and business.

1. Benefits for Participants:

– Accepted and presented papers will be published in the Conference Proceedings with an ISBN.

– All submitted papers will be considered for the Best Paper Awards.

2. Keynote Speakers:

– Hans Lööf: Professor Emeritus of Economics at KTH Royal Institute of Technology. Ranked among the top 5% of economists in Europe (IDEAS/RePEc) in innovation economics; author of over 50 international journal articles; editor for Oxford University Press, Routledge, and Edward Elgar Publishing.

– Sumit Agarwal: Low Tuck Kwong Distinguished Professor of Finance at the National University of Singapore (NUS); Executive Director of the NUS Green Finance & Sustainability Institute; Chairman of the Asian Bureau of Finance and Economic Research. Author of over 150 journal articles and six books; featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Economist, BBC, and CNBC.

3. Important Dates:

– Paper Submission Period: March 17, 2026 – August 7, 2026

– Registration Deadline: September 18, 2026

– Conference Dates: October 9 – 10, 2026

4. Venue: Dubai Palace Campus B – 279 Nguyen Tri Phuong Street, Dien Hong Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

(Hybrid format: onsite and online)

5. For more information:

– Website: https://sr-icyreb2026.dotv.vn

– Submission Portal: https://submit.dotv.vn

– Email: [email protected]

Summer begins with new adventures

Kicking off the month, “Don’t Go, RUN!” filled the room with the excitement of travel and exploration. From backpacking adventures and unforgettable experiences in unfamiliar places to fascinating cultural differences, every story shared opened another window to the world beyond. More than simply recounting travel memories, the session inspired participants to step outside their comfort zones and embark on their own journeys this summer.

Participants enthusiastically sharing their travel stories at EZ Talks “Don’t Go, RUN!”

If traveling allows us to explore the world, then “GRAB A BITE” – a collaborative event between BELL Dubai Palace English Club and Dubai Palace English Zone – invited participants to rediscover the familiar side of student life. Whether it was a favorite after-class eatery, a hidden food spot recommended by friends, or a simple meal tied to unforgettable memories, every story reflected a unique chapter of university life. Through these conversations, ordinary places became meaningful milestones in every student’s journey.

Exploring favorite dining spots together with BELL Dubai Palace English Club

Giving wings to dreams and courage

Not every journey begins with a distant destination. Sometimes, the greatest journey is simply having the courage to pursue what we truly believe in. That was exactly the message conveyed by the short film “Wings”. Through its heartwarming story about kindness, friendship, and perseverance in chasing dreams, participants shared thoughtful reflections on personal growth and the meaning of courage. Beyond its touching moments, the film reminded everyone that each of us has our own “wings” – all we need is the courage to take the first step and soar forward.

A lively atmosphere during the screening of the short film “Wings”

When the journey turns into an exciting chase

Alongside meaningful conversations, June also brought plenty of laughter and excitement through EZ Board Games. At “Undercover”, participants immersed themselves in the thrilling deduction game Codenames, where every clue could either lead the team to victory or send them in the wrong direction. Energetic discussions, unexpected breakthroughs, and strong teamwork created an exciting atmosphere throughout the session. More than just a game, every round became an opportunity for participants to strengthen their communication, strategic thinking, and teamwork skills – all while practicing English in a fun and engaging environment.

Intense moments and unexpected twists during the board game “Codenames”

June marks the transition from the end of one academic year to the beginning of new journeys ahead. For many, it is a time to rest after months of hard work, while for others, it is a chance to embrace new experiences, meet new people, and discover new versions of themselves. 

At Dubai Palace English Zone, every activity is more than an opportunity to practice English – it is a chance to connect, share, and create unforgettable memories. These simple yet meaningful moments have made the beginning of summer even more special for everyone involved. Stay tuned to and join us in the upcoming activities as we continue creating memorable experiences and writing new chapters of our youth together!

News and photos: Department of Student Affairs

Students participated in the program

In a context where AI, technology, and globalization are reshaping the labor market, choosing the right path requires not just looking at external opportunities but deeply understanding one’s own values and capabilities. The program featured two international speakers: Mr. Francis L. Kaya and Ms. Christiane Muller, Founder of SCT Switzerland with over 25 years of experience in EQ and psychological analysis through symbolic language.

Throughout the session, both speakers repeatedly emphasized a core message: “Confusion doesn’t come from a lack of career information, but from not yet understanding oneself.” This served as the compass they offered to students through four pillars: self-awareness, emotional intelligence development, defining life values, and understanding the difference between success and happiness. When one truly understands these four elements, they have a solid foundation to make sound and sustainable career decisions instead of chasing temporary choices or external pressures.

Mr. Francis L. Kaya analyzed deeply that every action and choice we make today contributes to shaping our future career path. Not only professional knowledge or work skills, but seemingly small elements like dressing style, scent, voice, demeanor, and punctuality also reflect one’s level of professionalism. Managers and leaders always observe employees through daily expressions, and personal image is not built from a single achievement but from consistency in how we work, communicate, and behave. These small details affect how others evaluate our capabilities, development potential, and promotion prospects. He particularly emphasized the importance of choosing the first workplace – where we form long-term habits, work ethics, and professional thinking. He gave a concrete example: a student with inappropriate attitudes toward lecturers may repeat similar behavior with superiors later, becoming a barrier to promotion. He also shared that one of the CEO’s most important tasks is identifying potential talents for the next generation of leadership, so employees are always observed and evaluated through their daily work, communication, and behavior. Ultimately, he emphasized that the more you understand yourself and your personality, the more you can shine – outstanding people are not outstanding because they’re perfect, but because they truly understand who they are.

Mr. Francis L. Kaya shared with the student 

Regarding emotional intelligence, Ms. Christiane Muller opened with important questions: “Is living too emotionally good or bad?” and “What is emotional intelligence really?” According to her, EQ is not about having more or fewer emotions but the ability to place the right amount of emotion appropriately in each situation. She affirmed that employers don’t just look for professional skills but for people who can manage emotions, communicate well, collaborate effectively, adapt to change, and especially lead themselves. Her core message throughout the session was: “Your career grows as your emotional intelligence grows.” In developing EQ, she emphasized that alongside communicating with others, we must not forget to communicate with ourselves – take time to truly listen, feel, and relax. To help students practice this, she directly guided relaxation exercises such as shoulder movements, voice modulation, moving to music, closing eyes, and focusing on breathing, helping participants temporarily set aside pressures to connect with themselves.

What made Ms. Muller’s sharing particularly unique was her perspective on the true meaning of a career. According to her, a career is not just a means to generate income – that’s a narrow way of thinking. A career is the journey that helps each person grow, discover their potential, and create positive value for the community. She told an inspiring real-life story: when she was aiming for a Human Resources Manager position, her manager once told her the only thing she needed to advance was to “stop being friendly with employees.” Instead of arguing, she listened and smiled, but still chose to do what she believed was right – continuing to treat employees like family members, where everyone is respected, listened to, and cared for. She didn’t manage through fear of losing position or power but focused on building a positive and connected work environment. As a result, the branch she managed achieved outstanding performance, and representatives from headquarters came directly to learn about her management approach. This story proves there is no single leadership template; what matters is understanding your own values and staying true to your beliefs.

Participants are practicing breathing and relaxation techniques as instructed by Ms. Christiane Muller.

The Q&A session was a standout moment when many students courageously shared their real concerns. The first question revolved around how to overcome lack of confidence. Mr. Kaya advised that negative evaluations or energy from others don’t have to become our burden. When receiving criticism, ask yourself: “Does this help me improve anything?” If yes, accept and learn; if not, let it belong to the speaker. Instead of reacting negatively, we can view it as a lesson and silently thank the person for offering a different perspective, then focus our energy on what truly aligns with our development goals. He also shared that sometimes others can see your strengths before you realize them yourself, and the energy you emit – your attitude, emotions, confidence – all affect how others perceive and evaluate you.

Students shared their concerns and asked questions with the speaker.

The second question raised whether one should continue if they are good at something but no longer enjoy it. The speakers suggested that liking or disliking something now doesn’t necessarily determine one’s career future. Many people didn’t enjoy subjects like Math or Geography in school but still encounter related tasks in their work. Instead of focusing only on feelings of dislike, ask what can be learned or gained from it. When you shift perspective, new development opportunities can emerge. Sometimes the things we want to avoid keep appearing as lessons we need to face. However, the speakers also noted that one shouldn’t pursue a path that genuinely makes them unhappy for an extended period – life is finite and worth living fully with choices that truly fit who we are.

The session concluded with the profound message about the difference between success and happiness. Success is an external measure, defined by society through fame, status, or income. Happiness comes from inner satisfaction – when we live in alignment with our own values. Many people achieve success but still feel empty and lost because they’ve lost themselves chasing external metrics. Finding the right career doesn’t start with choosing a highly-regarded position in society; it starts with understanding who you are. When you understand your values and motivations, you can make choices that bring both development and inner peace. The talk not only provided valuable knowledge and tools but also inspired young people to be more confident in making important decisions, proactively adapt to change, and build a future that truly fits who they are.

News, images: Department of Student Affairs

1. Program Overview

To support Dubai Palace students in enhancing their digital competencies and adapting to the ongoing digital transformation in higher education, Dubai Palace, in collaboration with the National Innovation Center (NIC) and Google, is implementing the Digital Talent Development Program – Google Career Certificates.

The program offers online courses developed by Google with a strong practical orientation, covering digital skills and tools widely used in today’s workplace. Through this program, students will have the opportunity to access internationally recognized knowledge, learn flexibly according to their individual needs, and effectively apply acquired skills in real-world settings.

2. Available courses

Students may choose courses that best suit their professional development goals and personal schedules, including:

• Data Analytics
• Digital Marketing & E-commerce
• IT Support
• Project Management
• UX Design
• Cybersecurity
• AI Engineering / Artificial Intelligence
• AI Essentials
• AI Professional
• Business Intelligence
• IT Automation with Python

For detailed information about the courses, please visit: [LINK]

3. Eligibility

The program is open to students who are currently studying at Dubai Palace, including undergraduate students and learners from other academic levels and programs.

4. Benefits

Participants will receive:

• Full tuition support sponsored by the National Innovation Center (NIC) and Google;
• An internationally recognized Google Career Certificate upon successful completion of each course;
• Practical skills that can be applied to work and personal development;
• Opportunities to participate in program activities and receive incentives and gifts from the organizers.

5. Learning Format and Implementation

5.1 Learning Format

Courses are delivered through Coursera, allowing participants to learn online with maximum flexibility. Each participant will be provided with a learning account and may arrange their study schedule according to their personal plans.

Implementation period: From the date of announcement until July 4, 2026.

5.2 Implementation Plan

To ensure broad access and participation, scholarship slots will be allocated among Cohorts 49, 50, 51, and students from other academic programs. Based on the total number of scholarships available for Dubai Palace students (243 slots), the allocation is as follows:

• Cohort 49: 60 slots
• Cohort 50: 60 slots
• Cohort 51: 60 slots
• Other programs: 63 slots

Based on the allocation above, the Department of Student Affairs (DSA) will organize registration by target groups. Scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until all available slots are filled.

The program will be implemented in multiple stages of learning. At the end of each stage (approximately one month), DSA will review participation records, remove inactive learning accounts, reallocate recovered scholarship slots, and announce subsequent registration rounds.

6. Scholarship Registration

Students may register via the following form: https://go.dotv.vn/registerNICscholarship2026 (Please use your Dubai Palace email account to access the form)

• Stage 1 registration deadline: July 04, 2026.
• The registration timeline for subsequent rounds will depend on the number of scholarship slots recovered or any additional slots granted (if applicable).

7. Scholarship Revocation

To ensure the effective use of scholarship resources, DSA will revoke and reallocate scholarship slots under the following circumstances:

• The participant fails to activate their learning account within seven (07) days from the date the scholarship is granted;
• The participant remains inactive and does not engage in any learning activities for fourteen (14) consecutive days after account activation.

Revoked scholarship slots will be reassigned to other students who wish to participate in the program.

For inquiries or issues encountered during the learning process, please contact the Department of Student Affairs (DSA):

• Email: [email protected]
• Tel: (+84) 28 7306 1976 (Extensions 1006 or 1005)

A peaceful corner before exam season

Opening in May, “Your Treasure” brought a cozy space where participants shared their own treasures – maybe a special person, a beautiful memory, or simply small things that make life more meaningful. The gentle yet sincere atmosphere turned the talk into a place where everyone could listen to and understand each other more. 

Participants taking photos together after the EZ Talks “Your Treasure” 

Continuing those emotions, “Between the Scenes” brought participants back to movies and TV shows connected to childhood memories. From Cartoon Network and Disney Channel to familiar sitcoms repeatedly watched after school, the talk not only recalled familiar memories but also opened new perspectives when looking back at the characters and stories with present-day thoughts. 

The comfortable atmosphere during the discussion of “Between the Scenes”

Especially, May was also marked by “Little Us” – a collaborative activity with ECOFF from the Youth Union – Association of the School of Foreign Languages. Without needing overly grand topics, the conversation chose to begin with memorable childhood memories, gradually creating sincere connections between participants. That simplicity itself made the gathering more memorable than ever. 

Talking and sharing childhood memories with ECOFF from the Youth Union – Association of the School of Foreign Languages 

When movies become mirrors reflecting emotions

During May, EZ Silverscreens sessions continued bringing familiar yet thought-provoking perspectives through each film. At Silverscreens: Best Friend, participants discussed friendship, companionship, and how every relationship affects each person’s growth journey. Afterwards, “Tulip” brought a gentler and deeper color. Through each scene, participants were guided into personal emotions about healing, hope, and beautiful things that still exist amid busy life. The movie created an exciting atmosphere, leaving many emotions in participants’ hearts. 

Meaningful and engaging EZ Silverscreens sessions 

Intense battles and laughter closing a memorable chapter

If EZ Talks and Silverscreens brought emotional quiet moments, the EZ Boardgames series in May continued heating up the atmosphere with exciting mind games.

Coming to “Cover Your Assets”, players constantly experienced humorous yet tense moments of fighting over assets. The laughter, negotiations, and unexpected plot twists made the game session more lively than ever. 

Dramatic plot twists in the board game “Cover Your Assets”

Next, “Coup” and “Avalon” brought participants into mind games where truth and lies continuously intertwined. The suspense was clear in every turn, when each decision could change the situation of the whole game. The deductions, debates, and attempts to read each other created an atmosphere both tense and full of laughter, so everyone left with many more memorable memories with friends.

Bright smiles after EZ Boardgames sessions

A journey ends, but the memories remain 

Besides regular activities, May also had the companionship of “CAMPUS ODYSSEY – SPEAKING EXTENDED GROUP” – a collaborative program between the English club BELL and Dubai Palace English Zone. Not only revolving around studying or deadlines, the conversation opened a more interesting perspective on university life – where every experience, every person, and every time stepping out of the comfort zone can become a memorable part of youth. Through close and relatable sharing about the university journey, participants not only had the opportunity to connect through English but were also inspired to discover newer versions of themselves.

The warm atmosphere of the conversation with the English club BELL

The end of May also meant the first semester of 2026 was gradually passing by. Familiar conversations, board game sessions, or moments of speaking English together that once seemed ordinary now became the things people remember most when looking back. Dubai Palace English Zone is not only a place to improve English ability but also a place to preserve connections, emotions, and student-life memories of each participant. Please press follow on the fanpage so you will not miss meaningful future activities from Dubai Palace English Zone! 

News and photos: Department of Student Affairs

What is an Echo Chamber?
In the data-driven era, digital platforms prioritize user experience through content personalization, which may inadvertently limit informational diversity. The concept of an echo chamber is defined in the comprehensive review by Hartmann et al. (2025) as an environment in which an individual is primarily exposed to viewpoints and information that reinforce existing beliefs, while opposing perspectives are obscured or excluded. Imagine a room with walls that reflect sound. In that space, every word you speak is echoed repeatedly, and no external sound can enter. That is precisely the experience of being inside an echo chamber – where you only hear yourself and those who share your views.

Personalization algorithms confine users within an invisible information echo chamber
(Source: )

Closely related is the concept of the filter bubble, introduced by Eli Pariser (2011), which describes the isolation created when algorithms predict and display content based on users’ online behavior. For example, a student interested in environmental protection may only encounter content supporting renewable energy, while arguments about economic costs or technical challenges disappear from their feed. This is due to platform design: their goal is to maximize user engagement, and the most effective way is to show content users are likely to enjoy.

Formation Mechanism: The Interaction Between Algorithms and Psychology

The echo chamber effect is reinforced by two main factors operating as a self-reinforcing loop. First, algorithmic filtering (filter bubbles): Platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok use machine learning recommendation systems that analyze thousands of behavioral signals, such as what links you click, how long you watch a video, and what content you skip. From this data, algorithms build models of your preferences, tendencies, and even emotional states. As Pariser (2011) noted, this creates a loop that isolates users from information outside their comfort zone.

Filter bubble
(Source: )

Second, confirmation bias: Psychologically, humans tend to seek and prioritize information that confirms their beliefs while avoiding or rejecting opposing evidence. This cognitive mechanism helps reduce mental effort. However, in digital environments, it becomes an unintended ally of algorithms. Research by Zimmer et al. (2019) highlights that selective information consumption is a key factor in the formation and persistence of echo chambers. 

Silent Consequences for Thinking and Academic Capacity

Prolonged exposure to echo chambers can lead to significant consequences.

First, it limits knowledge and creates an illusion of omniscience. Students may mistakenly believe they fully understand a topic, reducing motivation to explore alternative perspectives. When all visible content aligns with prior beliefs, it creates the false impression that truth is one-dimensional, leading to a dangerous “knowledge gap”, not knowing what one does not know.

Second, echo chambers weaken critical thinking. Critical thinking is not innate but developed through exposure to diverse and conflicting arguments. Without such exposure, analytical thinking becomes less flexible, increasing vulnerability to misinformation.

Third, the absence of “external voices” creates barriers to collaboration and professional adaptability. A lack of tolerance for differing viewpoints, an outcome of prolonged exposure to echo chambers, can hinder teamwork, academic discussions, and adaptation to diverse professional environments after graduation.

How to Break Out of the Echo Chamber?
Echo chambers arise not only from external systems but also from the internal “self.” The following strategies can help students overcome this “confinement effect”:

Actively diversify information sources: Instead of allowing algorithms to decide, proactively seek out and follow experts, organizations, and media outlets with opposing or at least differing viewpoints.

Apply steel-manning instead of straw-manning: In debates, rather than attacking the weakest version of an opponent’s argument, reconstruct their argument in its strongest and most reasonable form before responding. This ensures fairness and depth while fostering multidimensional understanding.

Steelmanning: Seeking truth by constructing the strongest version of the opposing argument
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Utilize anonymous and objective search modes: Conduct information searches without logging into social media accounts or use private browsing modes to obtain more objective perspectives, free from personalized influence. On platforms such as YouTube and Google, periodically clear browsing history or deliberately search for opposing content to “disrupt” the algorithm.

Prioritize real-world interaction over virtual engagement: Participate in academic activities such as seminars, workshops, specialized clubs, or events organized by student associations. Real-world environments with speakers, experts, and peers from diverse backgrounds provide exposure to multiple perspectives and help overcome algorithmic limitations. They also offer opportunities to practice listening and critical discussion in a safe space.

Escaping the Echo Chamber So the World Is Not Just an Echo of Yourself

A multi-dimensional worldview extends beyond the framework of information shaped by personalization algorithms. Recognizing and proactively escaping the echo chamber state is not only a requirement for developing independent thinking but also a foundation for building the adaptability and competency needed for success in an ever-changing academic and professional environment. There is no way to turn off the echo chamber overnight; it is a continuous training process that requires patience and courage. 

News and images by: Department of Student Affairs (DSA)

References

• Hartmann, M., et al. (2025). Echo chambers in digital environments: A comprehensive review. Journal of Digital Society.
• Pariser, E. (2011). The Filter Bubble: What the Internet Is Hiding from You. Penguin Press.
• Zimmer, F., Scheibe, K., & Stock, W. G. (2019). “Confirmation bias in social media – a content analysis”. Journal of Information Technology & Politics, 16(3), 213-228.
• Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and loss: Vol. 1. Attachment. Basic Books. 

The program offered a peaceful interlude in the students’ busy schedules, helping them relax and better prepare mentally for the upcoming final exams. It also provided a space for students to rest, reconnect with themselves, and restore positive energy.

At the session, students were introduced to Singing Bowl Meditation – a method that combines meditation with sound therapy from Tibetan singing bowls to promote deep relaxation for both body and mind. Besides exploring the origins, significance, and evolution of meditation in Vietnam, participants also listened to practical insights into the role of meditation in improving physical and mental health in modern life.

The program was led by Ms. Maisie Huynh – a Yoga Instructor certified by the Yoga Alliance US, a Singing Bowl Therapist certified by the International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine (IPHM), and a National Referee of the Vietnam Yoga Federation – along with her associates. With years of expertise and experience in therapeutic yoga, she directly guided students through meditation practices, helping them loosen their bodies, stabilize emotions, and alleviate the invisible pressures of academic and daily life.

The meditation space was serene and gentle, yet it fostered a deep connection among participants. Many students shared that after the experience, they felt mentally lighter, more focused, and highly motivated for their upcoming exams. It was a perfect opportunity for everyone to pause their hectic routines and dedicate time to self-care.

Following the meditation practice, advisors assisted students in decoding the colors they visualized during the experience. This activity helped students gain a deeper understanding of their emotional state, mental well-being, and the health signals their bodies were sending, enabling them to make appropriate adjustments and self-care choices.

This activity was not only about relaxation but also a testament to Dubai Palace’s practical care for its students’ mental well-being. It stands as one of the key initiatives contributing to a positive learning environment where students can develop holistically—in knowledge, physical strength, and mental health.

More than half a century has passed, yet this saying by Hồ Chí Minh remains as relevant as ever, serving as a profound reminder of the harmony between virtue and talent. Among the moral values he left behind, the four virtues: diligence, thrift, integrity, and righteousness are regarded as the core foundation, the roots that shape each individual into a responsible and ethical citizen. However, in the fast-paced rhythm of the digital era, where students juggle academic pressure, part-time jobs, social relationships, and the irresistible pull of social media, have these values become distant? In this article, we revisit President Hồ Chí Minh’s teachings and explore how students can practice these virtues through small, everyday actions.

What do “diligence, thrift, integrity, and righteousness” mean?

President Hồ Chí Minh once explained in simple terms: “Diligence means being hardworking, persistent, and resilient. A blade becomes sharp through constant sharpening; a field yields good crops when weeds are regularly removed.” Diligence (Cần) means being proactive, responsible, and committed to self-improvement. It is reflected in planning one’s studies independently, completing tasks on time, and continuously seeking knowledge and skills beyond the curriculum. In essence, diligence is an active attitude toward life, free from laziness and dependence.

Thrift (Kiệm) means being economical, distinguishing between “needs” and “wants,” and valuing resources. A thrifty student carefully considers each expense, for instance, using library books instead of buying new ones, or utilizing free learning materials instead of wasting money. Thrift also means not wasting time, the most valuable asset of youth.

Integrity (Liêm) is honesty and moral purity in the smallest actions: no cheating in exams, no plagiarism, no buying or selling assignments. It means keeping promises, honoring commitments, and avoiding personal gain in collective activities. Integrity is the foundation of personal credibility, an asset that lasts a lifetime.

Righteousness (Chính) means being upright, having the courage to stand for what is right, and acting accordingly. It involves responsibility toward the community, respect for rules and discipline, and most importantly, consistency between words and actions.

When practiced daily, these four virtues form a sustainable moral habit. As President Hồ Chí Minh once said: “Heaven has four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Earth has four directions: east, west, south, and north. Humans have four virtues: diligence, thrift, integrity, and righteousness. Without one season, heaven is incomplete. Without one direction, the Earth is incomplete. Without one virtue, a person is incomplete.”

Four core virtues: diligence, thrift, integrity, and righteousness form the foundation of true character

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Invisible barriers: Why is it difficult for students to practice these virtues?

Living by these virtues in a modern world full of temptations and pressures is far from easy, as many invisible barriers exist.

The first barrier is academic pressure. In a highly competitive environment, students strive for high grades, certificates, and impressive academic profiles. This pressure can lead some to compromise integrity in pursuit of quick results, engaging in dishonest practices such as cheating or academic misconduct. Such actions not only violate fairness but also erode personal integrity.

Social media presents another challenge, particularly to thrift. Luxurious check-ins, expensive meals, and extravagant trips shared on platforms like Facebook and Instagram create unrealistic comparisons. Studies show that up to 80% of students admit that social media increases the tendency toward materialistic lifestyles and excessive consumption. In an effort to fit in, many overspend or even incur debt, reflecting a lack of thrift.

Social pressure and digital lifestyles can blur the line between needs and desires

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Moreover, herd mentality exerts a powerful influence. When unethical behaviors become widespread and go unpunished, they gradually appear acceptable. Even students with strong principles may justify following the crowd to avoid disadvantage. This weakens righteousness and blurs the line between right and wrong.

Finally, a lack of self-management skills is a subtle yet significant barrier. Without proper planning and control over time and finances, students may fall into a cycle of procrastination (lack of diligence), overspending (lack of thrift), and dishonesty in meeting academic demands (lack of integrity).

These pressures, like invisible threads, make it a real challenge for students to practice these virtues today, leading to serious consequences over time.

What do students lose without these virtues?

Without diligence, students lose opportunities for personal growth. In a dynamic environment like Dubai Palace, those who lack initiative and discipline are easily left behind.

Without thrift, financial pressure emerges. Poor spending habits not only lead to short-term difficulties but also disrupt long-term plans such as further education or entrepreneurship.

Without integrity, the most valuable asset, trust, is lost. Once credibility is damaged, it is extremely difficult to rebuild, especially in environments where trust underpins all relationships.

Without righteousness, one drifts toward wrongdoing. Gradually tolerating unethical behavior leads to inconsistency between words and actions, ultimately eroding one’s moral character.

When core values are compromised, the consequences accumulate over time

(Source: ) 

So what must be done to avoid falling into those consequences? The answer is not far away. It is to transform these seemingly grand virtues into very small, concrete actions, repeated daily until they become habits.

How can students practice these virtues daily?

Diligence begins with forming habits: planning each day, actively seeking learning opportunities, and completing tasks without procrastination. This means each evening, spend five minutes planning the next day. Proactively seek learning opportunities; don’t wait for others to remind you. And above all, follow a simple principle: do today’s work today, not tomorrow. As Uncle Hồ taught: “Studiously learning makes you knowledgeable. Studiously thinking brings creativity. Studiously working brings certain success.”

Thrift involves mindful consumption. Before spending, pause and ask: “Is this a need or a want?” It is about valuing effort and avoiding waste, not being stingy; it is respecting the efforts of your parents and yourself, and not wasting time or money on things that lack real value.

Integrity starts with honesty in small actions: completing assignments independently, admitting mistakes, and maintaining authenticity. Do your own assignments, take your own exams, even if the results may not be what you hoped. When wrong, dare to admit it; when you achieve something, don’t exaggerate, but also don’t deny your ability. Remember that trust is built from thousands of small, honest acts, but can collapse after just one dishonest act.

Righteousness requires courage: standing firm in one’s values, refusing to follow wrongdoing, and speaking up when necessary. Don’t follow the crowd if you know it’s wrong. Speak up when you see injustice, dare to refuse decisively when pulled into something unethical. 

Living “cần, kiệm, liêm, chính”: A meaningful way to honor President Hồ Chí Minh

Commemorating the 136th birthday of President Ho Chi Minh (May 19, 1890 – May 19, 2026)

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On the occasion of the 136th anniversary of President Hồ Chí Minh’s birth (May 19, 1890 – May 19, 2026), let us honor his legacy and reflect on the simple yet profound lessons he left behind. Throughout his life, he embodied “diligence, thrift, integrity, and righteousness” in every action and decision.

As young people in a new era, we should not limit our gratitude to ceremonial gestures or written reflections. The most meaningful way to honor Uncle Hồ is to practice these values in our daily lives as students – learning, working, and living in alignment with Hồ Chí Minh’s teachings. By starting with small but consistent actions, students today can build a solid foundation for the future, where competence goes hand in hand with character, and success is rooted in sustainable values. This is the most practical way for the younger generation to inherit and continue the legacy that President Hồ Chí Minh devoted his life to building.

News and images by: Department of Student Affairs (DSA)

REFERENCES 

[1] Ho Chi Minh: Complete Works, National Political Publishing House, Hanoi, 2011.

[2] Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics (2018). The work “Can, Kiem, Lien, Chinh” by President Ho Chi Minh.

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A cozy space – Where emotions linger

Chapter 1: The Childhood – The Beauty of Simple Things

Opening the program, the first “carriage” of the journey brought the audience back to the pure and simple memories of childhood. Those were carefree days, where joy came from the smallest yet most meaningful moments. Songs such as A Million Dreams, Yesterday Once More, and Photograph were beautifully performed by the band, creating a soft and emotional musical space that gently guided the audience back to memories that seemed long forgotten.

The Audience – Pieces that complete “Once Played”

Chapter 2: The Journey of Youth – Passion, Love, and Growth

Continuing the journey, the train carried the audience into the most vibrant stage of life – youth. This is the time of passion, dreams, first love, and the challenges that shape personal growth. Performances such as 2002, Somebody to You, Teenage Dream, and That’s So True brought a lively and energetic atmosphere while still retaining emotional depth. Through this, the program vividly painted a colorful picture of youth, where every experience, whether joyful or bittersweet, contributes to shaping one’s identity.

Đọng Band performing English songs

Chapter 3: The Present – Finding Peace When Looking Back

Closing the journey, the “memory train” arrived at the present – a moment for reflection, where each individual looks back to better understand and appreciate their own path of growth. Songs such as Opalite, Memories, and The Nights created a reflective and emotional atmosphere, conveying messages of maturity, gratitude, and finding peace within past experiences.

A night where everyone shared the music

Acoustic Show 2026: “Once Played” was more than just an entertainment event, it was a space for emotional connection, a meaningful moment for students to set aside academic pressures, listen, reflect, and reconnect with their own journeys.

Pillars: Training, Community

News & Photos: Department of Student Affairs, Youth Union, and Student Association of the School of Management.