On May 20, 2009 a reception focusing on Vietnam was held at Vesalius Campus.
After the very succesful The World on Your Plate food festival, the International Office felt it time for another initiative that would put our international community in the picture. This time, they let themselves be inspired by the enthusiasm of some of the university college's Vietnamese students and staff.
Our Vietnamese female students donned the Ao dai, Vietnam's national costume for women, usually worn for formal occasions. They provided information on the country's history, sites, and arts while others played the flute. Also, some examples of Dong Ho painting were on show. This distinct Vietnamese folk art uses the bark of the Dzo tree for paper, colors derived from tree leaves, and sticky rice.
Staff and students alike enjoyed homemade Nem (spring rolls), sticky rice with saucages, and sweet porridge. The more adventurous tried on the Nón lá, a conical hat made from Bamboo, hardwood, and coconut leaves.