Laotian students receive gifts from Da Nang University of Economics. (Photo: Thanh Nien)

Touched by the gift from locals

In the month since Da Nang City implemented the "stay where you are" policy to fight the pandemic, Lao students at Da Nang University of Economics have had to stay in the dormitory, waiting for the next school year.

The outbreak has left Lao students to be stranded in Da Nang, unable to visit their homeland and worried that they will face further difficulties. However, the international students have been moved by the support from the university and local government.

A gift from the university. (Photo: Thanh Nien)

Thanane Minta, a senior student at Da Nang University of Economics, started her new school year online more than 20 days after the strict lockdown. Minta said that at the end of a school year, she would go home to visit her parents. However, the pandemic outbreak in Da Nang made it impossible for her to return to Laos this year, so she had to stay in the dormitory.

“When I heard that Da Nang had an outbreak and I could not return home, I was very sad. I haven't been home for nine months now, so I miss home very much. I study in Vietnam with no scholarship, all living expenses are covered by my family, so I faced difficulties due to the pandemic," Minta said.

Minta's parents, though far away, still keep up with Da Nang's newest information.

"My parents said not only foreigners but Vietnamese doctors and nurses face difficulties. The medical forces are working day and night to fight the pandemic. They said I could visit them when the outbreak was over, but now I have to follow the government's instructions," Minta said.

During the outbreak, Da Nang University of Economics showed concern and encouraged international students who had to stay in the dormitory. The authority and the university have sent many gifts such as vegetables, fruits, instant noodles, and eggs. These actions have warmed the hearts of international students.

“We know that even though the city is struggling with the pandemic, they still send us gifts, making everyone grateful. I hope the city can control the pandemic soon so that life can return to normal," Minta said.

Láo students celebrate Bunpimay

Celebrating Laos Bunpimay new year

Stuck in Da Nang because of the Covid-19 epidemic, Pupay Senglamphanh, a fourth-year student in accounting, has not returned home for more than a year. During the lockdown, the support and attention from local functional forces has eased her homesickness.

Pupay Senglamphanh told reporters that a memorable Laos traditional new year (Bunpimay) was held by Da Nang in mid-April, 2021.

A student studies online. (Photo: Thanh Nien)

When the pandemic was under control, the university held a warm Bunpimay celebration for Laotian students. “Welcoming Bunpimay in a foreign land in an atmosphere of love and sharing, we consider Da Nang our second home. The people and teachers here are friendly, everyone offers us love and care,” said Pupay Senglamphanh.

Da Nang has taken action to ensure Laotian students' safety. According to the university's representative, the university regularly communicates and encourages students to stay in the dormitory and strictly adheres to the prevention rules. The staff and teachers also stay at the dormitory to help them overcome difficulties.

“During the pandemic, the university calls for social resources to send international students rice and necessities. With the spirit of "all students are Da Nang people" nearly 300 students, including 147 Laotians staying at the dormitory have received support from the local government," said the representative.

In addition to the students staying at the dormitory, those who rent houses outside the campus also receive assistance. The university has worked with local authorities to test all students stuck in Da Nang due to coronavirus, according to regulations.

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