On May 23, 2025, the signature program Thien Dieu 2025, hosted by the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Van Lang University, was successfully and emotionally held under the theme “Golden Glory”. The event was a journey of gratitude, spreading profound humanistic values and marking a memorable milestone: 30 years of Van Lang University’s establishment, 7 years of the Faculty’s development, and 5 years of Thien Dieu's meaningful presence within the VLU student community.

In its fifth year, Thien Dieu continued to affirm its place as a hallmark of the Faculty’s student spirit. With meticulous investment and creative artistic expression, this year’s program masterfully blended national identity, youthful aspirations, deep gratitude for previous generations, and a forward-looking integration mindset, delivering an epic artistic performance full of pride and inspiration. More than just a theme, “Golden Glory” symbolizes a path of growth, the courage to live fully in the present, and the ongoing pursuit of future dreams for generations of SOHU students, the vibrant community of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities.

Opening Chapter – A journey of gratitude

In her heartfelt opening speech, Dr. Nguyen Bao Thanh Nghi, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, reflected on the Faculty’s 7-year journey of formation and development, expressing pride in the growth of students through each season of Thien Dieu.

In a sacred moment during the Ceremony segment, representatives of student generations, who have accompanied Thien Dieu across its five seasons, presented Thien Dieu flowers to the Faculty’s lecturers as a token of deep gratitude and appreciation. These gestures spoke volumes of heartfelt thanks from generations of students to their dedicated mentors who have tirelessly guided and nurtured their academic and life journeys.

Honoring - Meeting outstanding individuals

Another highlight was the recognition of “Students with 5 Good Criteria” and “Excellent students” for the academic year 2023–2024.

Thien Dieu 2025 - A proud five-year artistic journey

2025 marks the 5th anniversary of Thien Dieu, a meaningful and iconic program. Highlight reels screened during the event served as a vivid stream of memories, vividly capturing the youth and passion of each Thien Dieu season.

Each year, Thien Dieu dons a new “color”, reflecting the ever-renewing creativity and aspirations of students from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. Yet, what remains unchanged throughout is the desire to shine, the steadfast commitment to preserving humanistic values, and a strong spirit of spreading positivity within the Van Lang community, which are core values defining SOHU students.

In a hushed, emotional atmosphere, the countdown marked the beginning of the “Golden Glory” journey as the symbolic Thien Dieu 2025 flower came into full bloom.

A special emotional moment came when the traditional Thien Dieu anthem echoed through the auditorium, connecting like-minded hearts and bridging generations of students and alumni from the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. The song, composed by SOHU students and passionately performed by alumni, those who once journeyed alongside Thien Dieu and played a part in shaping the vibrant legacy it represents today.

ACT I – “Genesis”: Artistic reflections of Vietnam’s founding era

The first chapter of the performance, Genesis, reenacted the image of the ancient Van Lang Kingdom and the Dong Son drum. Graceful choreography, dynamic lighting, and immersive sound effects transported the audience back to the sacred, heroic days of Vietnam’s nation-building era.

ACT II – “Golden Glory”: When the Nation called amidst the flames of war

The second chapter, Golden Glory, took the audience on a poignant journey back to Vietnam’s wartime years, marked by both heroic victories and immense sacrifice. The atmosphere turned solemn as each performance vividly portrayed soldiers, families on the home front, and the quiet sacrifices made for national independence.

The meticulously staged musical performance brought to life a deep sense of patriotism, resilience, and national pride. It was not only a tribute to the past but also a powerful reminder for today’s generation to remember and honor the legacy of previous generations who fought to defend every inch of their homeland.

ACT III – “Prosperity”: A symphony of aspiration for growth and integration

The final chapter, Prosperity, unfolded a vibrant image of modern Vietnam, where cultural traditions and innovative spirit coexist harmoniously. Traditional five-panel Ao Dai swayed gracefully to classical pentatonic melodies, creating a captivating artistic fusion rooted in national identity. Interspersed with archival footage showcasing Vietnam’s development, this chapter conveyed the country’s bold vision and readiness to integrate globally in the modern era.

When “Toi yeu” (I Love) is sung, it echoes the voices of millions of Vietnamese hearts

Every moment on stage was a living story - from the patriotic call of Nam Quoc Son Ha to the hopeful image of today’s prosperous Vietnam. Thien Dieu 2025 led the audience from the roots of history to a future full of hope and ambition. The message “A glorious past – A steady future” resonated throughout each act, awakening pride and aspiration in every SOHU student. Though the spotlight has dimmed, the memory of Golden Glorious will forever shine brightly in the hearts of Van Lang students, reminding them of the nation’s sacred values and their deep love for the homeland.

News: Dang Khoa
Photos: Trung Quan, Huu Phuoc