In a significant cultural initiative, the Vietnam Education Publishing House has donated a substantial collection of Vietnamese-language books to the Vietnamese community in northeastern Thailand. This event, held in Hanoi, aims to enhance the reading culture among expatriates and strengthen their connection to their heritage. Nguyen Tien Thanh, the Chairman and General Director of the publishing house, emphasized the importance of these donations in fostering national pride and improving the use of the Vietnamese language abroad. The books were delivered through the Consulate General of Vietnam in Khon Kaen, marking a vital step in supporting the educational needs of Vietnamese nationals living overseas.
Discussion with nguyen Tien Thanh on Enhancing the Reading Culture Among Vietnamese Expatriates
Editor: thank you for joining us today, Mr. Thanh. the recent donation of Vietnamese-language books to the Vietnamese community in northeastern Thailand is a notable cultural initiative.Could you share more about the motivation behind this event?
Nguyen Tien Thanh: Thank you for having me. The primary motivation stems from our desire to strengthen the cultural connections of Vietnamese expatriates with thier heritage. By providing access to Vietnamese-language books, we aim to enhance their reading culture adn ensure that the Vietnamese language remains vibrant among communities abroad.
Editor: It’s fascinating to see how literature can serve as a bridge to heritage. What types of books were included in the donation, and how do you decide what to offer?
Nguyen Tien Thanh: We included a diverse range of books, from literary classics to contemporary works, covering various genres. The selection process is guided by the community’s preferences and needs. We want to provide books that not only educate but also entertain and resonate with the experiences of our expatriates.
Editor: The act of donating books to a community is commendable. How do you foresee this initiative impacting the national pride among Vietnamese living overseas?
Nguyen Tien Thanh: This initiative is about instilling a sense of pride in our language and culture. By having access to literature in Vietnamese, expatriates can share these stories and values with their children and within their communities, reinforcing their identity and connection to Vietnam.
Editor: You delivered these books through the Consulate General of Vietnam in Khon Kaen. Can you elaborate on the partnership and its significance?
Nguyen Tien Thanh: Collaborating with the Consulate was crucial in ensuring the success of this initiative. They play an essential role in connecting us with the community and facilitating the logistics of the donation. This partnership underscores a collective effort to address the educational needs of Vietnamese nationals residing in Thailand.
Editor: Beyond this initiative, what steps do you think the publishing house and other organizations could take to further support Vietnamese expatriates?
Nguyen Tien Thanh: Moving forward, we can explore more interactive platforms, such as virtual book clubs and reading events that can engage the community. Additionally, creating an online library with access to Vietnamese literature could further bridge the gap for those unable to attend physical events.
Editor: As we strive for cultural preservation, what practical advice would you give to individuals wishing to support literacy within their communities?
Nguyen Tien Thanh: Individuals can start local reading groups or bring Vietnamese literature into schools where expatriate children study.Every small effort counts.They can also collaborate with local organizations to organize book donations, ensuring that children have access to stories that reflect their background and identity.
Editor: thank you, Mr. Thanh, for sharing these insights today. The donation of books represents a meaningful investment in cultural heritage and literacy. We look forward to seeing how these initiatives continue to evolve.
Nguyen Tien Thanh: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this crucial topic. Together, we can nurture a strong cultural identity among our expatriates, one book at a time.