New Colombo Plan Vietnam Study Tour

Written by Bachelor of International Relations & Political Science student, Zoe Johnston.

The New Colombo Plan Vietnam Study Tour has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Over the past two weeks, I’ve gained invaluable life experiences and a clearer vision for my career. I distinctly remember sitting in the conference room at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV), feeling certain that this is the career path I want to pursue. The good and the bad alike have sharpened my focus on diplomacy and international relations.

Week 1: Immersion into Vietnam’s Culture and History

The first week of our tour was all about diving deep into the local culture, and it was packed with unforgettable experiences. One standout moment was our visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Almost getting stuck in one of the narrow passages was a hilarious experience, but it also gave me a firsthand glimpse into the incredible strategic importance of these tunnels during the Vietnam War.

Another highlight was taking a cable car ride through the clouds to the summit of Ba Den Mountain. Both the views from the cable car and walking through the clouds at the top were absolutely breathtaking and offered a unique perspective of Vietnam’s stunning landscape.

We also had the chance to explore the vibrant Mekong Delta River, where we took a serene boat tour along the canal of Unicorn Island. Along the way, we sampled fresh local honey, interacted with the region’s wildlife (I even held a python!), and got a glimpse into the daily life of the communities that thrive along the delta. The week was a beautiful immersion into Vietnam’s rich culture and history.

Week 2: Diplomatic and Academic Engagements

The second week of our Vietnam Study Tour was an immersive and intense journey, representing Flinders University in a variety of diplomatic and educational engagements across Vietnam. Partnering with the DAV, we had the privilege of stepping into some of the country’s most significant political institutions. Our visits included the United Nations office, the National Assembly, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hanoi, each offering us rare insights into Vietnam’s diplomatic relationships and governance structures.

A standout moment was having dinner with representatives from AusTrade from the Australian Embassy in Vietnam. The opportunity to engage in conversations with diplomats and trade officials provided valuable perspectives on Australia’s economic and political ties with Vietnam, and how these relationships are being shaped moving forward.

Academic Insights: Vietnamese Foreign Policy and Governance

From an academic standpoint, we were fortunate to attend lectures on Vietnamese foreign policy and governance. These sessions were not only informative but crucial in deepening our understanding of Vietnam's strategic positioning in the global arena. The lectures highlighted the complexities of Vietnam’s international relations, from its historical ties to modern geopolitical challenges.

Our collaboration with DAV students led to several enriching workshops, including a series of high-level simulations. One simulation focused on UN Youth recommendations concerning pressing global issues such as education, employment, innovation, and peace and security, pushing us to think critically and problem-solve in real-time. Another session delved into Grey Zone warfare, particularly in the context of the South China Sea. These exercises were both intense and eye-opening, allowing us to apply theoretical knowledge to complex, real-world scenarios.

Final Thoughts

Overall, this experience was an incredible blend of academic learning, cultural exchange, and hands-on diplomacy, leaving us with a much deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s role in international relations.