From August 11 to 25, 2025, Tran Van Phu, a student majoring in Furniture and Wood Technology in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Education (HCMUTE), spent an exciting and meaningful summer at the AUN Summer Camp: Airlangga Adventure (AIRVENTURE) 2025 in Indonesia.

Over the course of 14 days, Phu engaged in six academic modules that combined scientific inquiry with practical conservation activities through workshops and field trips. Among the program’s highlights were two major experiences:

Surabaya – Students attended courses at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, explored the city’s cultural richness through the Surabaya City Tour, and participated in a mangrove conservation workshop, emphasizing the importance of mangroves for marine ecosystems.

Banyuwangi – Participants joined hands-on activities at the Sea-Turtle Foundation, learning about turtle breeding and releasing hatchlings into the ocean. They also took part in a coral cultivation workshop at Bangsring Underwater followed by snorkeling, and concluded with group presentations where local and international students worked together to analyze issues and propose solutions for marine conservation.

In addition, the program raises the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water – “Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.” In particular, it supports Target 14.2: sustainably managing and protecting marine and coastal ecosystems, strengthening their resilience, and taking action for their restoration to achieve healthy and productive oceans.
Through these experiences, the program not only provided valuable academic knowledge but also fostered cross-cultural collaboration, critical thinking, and a strong sense of responsibility towards protecting marine biodiversity.