International students enjoy Vietnamese culture of using tea and coffee at VLU

On the morning of June 14, 2023, in the frame of the SDG Summer School program, the International Education Institute held a workshop on the culture of using tea and coffee for the international students visiting and learning at VLU. The practical experience and interaction during the program has brought many exciting first-times for students.  

Starting from the Western countries and following the expeditions and colonizations, at the end of 20th century, the coffee seeds have been imported to our country and become the beverage exclusively for officials, aristocrats and urban intelligentsia. Though a long history, up to now, coffee has crept to life, becoming popular for all classes.

The Vietnamese culture of using tea has lasted longer, which appeared 4000 years ago. Beside the use of refreshment, tea is also a medicine to prevent disease and promote health. The Vietnamese’s style of using tea is also diverse and doesn't follow any standards. People can use tea by themselves or with others. Today, through variations or combinations with other ingredients, tea is gradually being favored by young people and becoming a beverage associated with the modern rhythm of life.

With many years of experience and knowledge in the field, Mrs. Ngo Thi Lan Chi, lecturer leading the program shared with the international students about the origin of tea and coffee, how to appreciate the traditional values, and the ways that each type of jam, tea and coffee are carefully selected. The story behind each tea leaf is gently and deeply conveyed to international students. “This is not simply drinking tea and enjoying coffee, but it is a culture, and a way of enjoying the life of the Vietnamese people.”, Mrs. Lan Chi said

Nino, an international student from Britain, expressed his excitement while participating in the workshop: “This is a wonderful workshop. With the lecturer’s instructions and skills, the impressive taste of tea and coffee remained in my mouth. Before returning, I will definitely buy more to bring back to my country as a gift.”

News: Hien Le
Photo: Khanh Thinh