The event attracted a large number of students who eagerly joined to listen, engage, and interact directly with Martial Artist – Educator – Author Nguyen Van Dung, whose sharing extended beyond martial arts to topics of personal growth, self-discipline, and living with kindness in an ever-changing world.
Opening the session, he did not begin with techniques or achievements, but with a seemingly simple message: “Learning martial arts is about overcoming yourself, not competing with others.” Though familiar, the statement resonated deeply through his calm and thoughtful delivery. To him, martial arts are not merely about physical strength, but about daily discipline, perseverance through failure, and self-control in every situation — values that are especially meaningful for university students today.
What surprised many students was his modern interpretation of “martial arts.” According to him, young people today need many kinds of “martial arts”: the martial arts of intellect, emotions, and human interaction. In a world increasingly shaped by academic pressure, career demands, and complex relationships, “martial arts” are no longer confined to the arena. They are reflected in how people face failure, remain calm under pressure, and choose kindness even when no one requires it.
The discussion became even more engaging as students raised questions that reflected genuine student concerns. Rather than offering formulaic advice, Nguyen Van Dung shared his own journey, including failures, moments of uncertainty, and times when he felt unable to continue.
“No one is born fully understanding who they are. Only those who never dare to try will never know who they could become.”
His words may not have instantly solved every challenge, but they encouraged students to embrace courage, experience, and responsibility in shaping their own paths.
One of the most profound messages delivered during the talk was the value of perseverance. In martial arts, a single movement may require thousands of repetitions. There are no shortcuts and no overnight success. Many people give up just before reaching success, not because they are weak, but because they lack patience. This message strongly resonated with modern life, where many young people easily lose direction when immediate results are not visible.
Toward the end of the session, he spoke not about achievements or fame, but about kindness: “If you cannot become the best person, that is alright. But always strive to become a kind person.” In that moment, many students fell silent in reflection. Amid ambitious goals and fierce competition, people sometimes forget the most fundamental value of being human.
As he explained, kindness is not weakness. It is a conscious choice, the courage not to be swept away by negativity, and the foundation for building a meaningful and sustainable life.
Student Cao Thi Minh Thanh shared: “What remained after the talkshow was not only applause or commemorative photos, but also unspoken reflections, personal questions, and perhaps small changes beginning from within. Mr. Nguyen Van Dung did not bring grand lessons, but something more meaningful — an awakening about how to live. In the journey of growing up, everyone needs milestones to reflect on themselves. This event at Dong A University may not instantly change anyone’s life, but it certainly planted seeds in the hearts of young people: seeds of discipline, perseverance, and kindness.”
As part of the program, the “UDA Reading Culture Ambassador 2026” competition was also officially launched. The contest has become a familiar and meaningful platform for Dong A University students, contributing to the promotion of reading habits and a proactive learning culture among students.
The series of activities celebrating Vietnam Book and Reading Culture Day 2026 at Dong A University will continue with a variety of engaging programs, including:
• Talkshow “Youth Aspirations” with author Dieu Vuot (April 10, 2026)
• “UDA Reading Culture Ambassador 2026” Competition (April 21 – May 25, 2026)
• Book Exhibition “Artificial Intelligence – The Key to the Future” (April 20 – 25, 2026)
• Book Fair “Into the World of Books” in collaboration with FAHASA Bookstore (April 21 – 23, 2026)
• Book Exchange Program “Reuse – Read – Share” organized by the UDA Books & Action Club (April 21 – 23, 2026)