Connecting Vietnamese and Canadian students for sustainable water solutions

During the training session, NSCC faculty members and students visited and explored several research and demonstration models being implemented at STARS Water Center, including aquaponics systems, constructed wetlands, and an organic luffa cultivation model.

Through on-site presentations and discussions at each model, the students learned about their operating principles, technical processes, potential applications, and contributions to water treatment, resource reuse, and the development of circular and sustainable agricultural practices.

In addition to the site visit, students from Tra Vinh University and NSCC were divided into groups to discuss issues related to wastewater treatment, water reuse, and efficient water use in agriculture in Vietnam and Canada. Drawing on their academic knowledge, practical observations, and the differences in natural conditions between the two countries, the groups exchanged perspectives, developed ideas, and presented solutions suited to each context.

The training session featured professional guidance and knowledge sharing from Dr. Tran Thi Ngoc Bich, Director of STARS Water Center, and Prof. Harry Futselaar, Water Expert from Saxion University of Applied Sciences, the Netherlands, with support from the STARS Water Center team.

Through practical insights shared by the experts, the students gained broader perspectives on water resource management challenges, the role of technology, and the importance of interdisciplinary and international collaboration in developing solutions for climate change adaptation and sustainable development.

The training and knowledge exchange session not only offered an opportunity for practice-oriented learning but also strengthened connections between Vietnamese and Canadian students. It enabled participants to enhance their teamwork, presentation, creative thinking, and ability to approach challenges from an international perspective.

STARS Water Center sincerely thanks the experts, faculty members, support team, and all participating students from Tra Vinh University and Nova Scotia Community College for their active engagement and valuable contributions to a meaningful day of learning and exchange.

The activity further affirmed the role of STARS Water Center in research, training, international collaboration, and the promotion of technological solutions for the effective management and sustainable use of water resources.