Distinguished guests, including representatives from the Embassy of Vietnam in London, marked the event as a link between Vietnamese cultural heritage and the global academic community. attendees included the British Ambassador to Vietnam (2007–2010), Mr. Mark Kent CMG, Executive Chair of the Vietnam UK Network, and Ms. Bao Ha, Director and Associate General Counsel at Deutsche Bank. Academic figures like Professor Sir Peter Horby and Professor Malcolm McCulloch also attended. Joining them were members of the Vietnam UK Network, SVUK (Vietnamese Student Association in the UK), and VOX (Vietnamese Student Society at the University of Oxford).
The Tet event featured two sessions: a morning lecture on the Strategic Net Zero theme and an afternoon Tet Celebration buffet lunch with Vietnamese cuisine.
Nguyen Duc An, President of VOX, welcomed guests, introducing the morning session theme, 'Strategy to Net Zero.’ He also highlighted a book by Oxford alumni and current Vietnamese students, with proceeds supporting the Saigon Children Charity. Professor Malcolm McCulloch delivered a speech on "Strategic Approaches to Achieving Net Zero.” Co-chair Professor Saad Jbabdi set the tone for a day that blended academic insight with cultural celebration.
The celebration continued with a Traditional New Year Blessing Ceremony and a Tet Singing Celebration by the members of VOX. The event not only celebrated the Vietnamese Lunar New Year but also served as a testament to the diverse and inclusive community at St. Hilda's College and the University of Oxford. The Tet Celebration marks the arrival of spring based on the Vietnamese calendar and our guests enjoyed traditional Vietnamese dishes in our Dining Hall.
