“Changing Coast” fieldtrip in Cu Lao Dung, Soc Trang

On November 21–22, 2023, nearly 40 lecturers and students from the University of Science, VNU-HCM, University of Tasmania (Australia), and Hokkaido University (Japan) took part in a field survey in Cu Lao Dung, Soc Trang. On the first day, after dinner and leaving behind the fatigue of a long trip, the entire group joined in fun quiz games with small prizes, cultural exchange activities, music performances, and a campfire gathering. These group activities helped strengthen the connection between students from the University of Tasmania and the University of Science, break language barriers, and bridge the gap between lecturers and students. The evening event ended at 11:00 PM.

Figure 1: Teams joining group games, with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vo Luong Hong Phuoc presenting a small prize to the winning team

Figure 2: Students enjoying the games and taking commemorative photos

Figure 3: A memorable campfire photo

The following morning, the group woke up early to prepare for a boat survey and data collection trip at the Tran De estuary of the Hau River. Australian and Vietnamese students were divided into small groups under the guidance of lecturers from University of Science, University of Tasmania, and Hokkaido University. They measured meteorological parameters, current velocity, water quality, and collected bottom sediment and water samples. The students quickly mastered the measuring techniques, and almost all of them were able to operate the equipment independently after receiving instructions.

Figure 4: Dr. Andrew Fischer (University of Tasmania) instructing CTD deployment, and Dr. Sohiko Kameyama (Hokkaido University) guiding water sampling and water quality measurement

Figure 5: Students practicing meteorological measurements and CTD operations

The field trip concluded successfully. Although everyone felt exhausted after the busy schedule, all participants agreed that their efforts were well worth it — with joyful cultural exchanges, newly acquired knowledge, and valuable hands-on experiences.

A short video compilation of the field trip in Cu Lao Dung, Soc Trang is available on the YouTube channel of the Department of Oceanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology via the attached link.