Van Lang University to host the International Student Media Arts Festival (ISMA 2025)

The 6th International Student Media Arts Festival (ISMA 2025) will take place from February to July 2025 at Van Lang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The event will bring together nearly 100 universities from 15 countries, marking a significant platform for international cultural exchange and creative collaboration in media and arts.

Established in Qingdao, China, in 2017, the International Student Media Arts Festival has since expanded with subsequent editions held in Guiyang (2018), Shanghai - Malaysia (2019), Middle Tennessee State University, USA (2023), and Kookmin University, South Korea (2024). In 2025, the 6th edition of the festival will be hosted in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, gathering participation from renowned universities worldwide.

As the host institution, Van Lang University reaffirms its pioneering role in media arts and its contribution to the growth of Vietnam’s creative industry. ISMA 2025 will feature prestigious universities such as Beijing Film Academy, China Academy of Art, New York University, Michigan State University, along with leading educational institutions from the U.S., Europe, South Korea, Australia, Brazil, and beyond.

ISMA 2025 will feature three main activities designed to foster collaboration between students and industry professionals. Firstly, the Media Arts Contest, an online competition open to students worldwide. Secondly, the 72-Hour Workshop, an on-site filmmaking challenge in Ho Chi Minh City, where 20 student teams will create short films within 72 hours, revolving around the theme “Humanity – Rivers – Environment.” Finally, the Academic Forum, a platform for professors and scholars to discuss future trends in media and communication education.

Under the theme “Future of Media: Humanity – Rivers – Environment,” ISMA 2025 encourages students to explore the interconnections between humanity, nature, and society. The festival’s four main competition categories include Short Films, Animation Art, Interactive Art, and AI Narrative, highlighting the integration of advanced technologies in artistic expression.

ISMA 2025 serves as a valuable opportunity for faculty and students to enhance training quality in media and digital arts. Participants will have the chance to submit their creative works, engage in global competition, and access cutting-edge technological trends. The 72-Hour City Exploration Workshop will further enrich students' learning experiences, fostering skills development and networking among students, experts, and researchers in the field.

The year 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification, the 30th anniversary of Van Lang University, and the 20th anniversary of the Faculty of Arts and Design. Hosting ISMA 2025 is a testament to the Faculty’s sustainable growth and its impact on Vietnam’s media and creative landscape.

With a curriculum aligned with global design trends, Van Lang University has been a pioneer in integrating Vietnamese cultural heritage and community-focused design into its training programs. This unique blend of creativity and cultural identity has enabled Van Lang’s Arts and Design students to excel in numerous international competitions, leaving a strong mark in various creative fields.

Currently, Van Lang University collaborates with over 30 universities and technology firms in South Korea, expanding global learning opportunities for students and graduate researchers. Over the years, the Faculty of Arts and Design has forged strategic partnerships with prestigious South Korean institutions such as Handong University, Kookmin University, Sunmoon University, and Konkuk University. Through these partnerships, Van Lang’s design students have gained deeper industry insights, with community projects in Vietnam and international exhibitions in South Korea receiving high recognition from global enterprises.

Committed to holistic education and positive societal impact, the Faculty of Arts and Design at Van Lang University regularly hosts large-scale art and design events in Vietnam. These initiatives facilitate academic exchange in design, fine arts, and emerging creative trends, connecting professionals and art enthusiasts alike. 

For more information about the event, competition guidelines, and awards, please visit https://www.isma.digital/