The University of Social Sciences and Humanities, VNU, is commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification, a significant event marking April 30, 1975. This program, organized in collaboration with the Museum of History and Culture, the Faculty of History, the Faculty of Political Science, and the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, attracted over 500 participants, including scientists, lecturers, students, and history enthusiasts.
On April 30, 1975, the resistance war against the United States concluded with the historic victory of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign, which ultimately led to the reunification of Vietnam. To honor this monumental occasion, a photo exhibition titled "50 Years of the Liberation of the South, National Reunification" has been set up, showcasing 40 archival images that capture key moments from the nation's heroic anti-American resistance.
The exhibition is structured into five thematic sections: (1) The Great War, which highlights pivotal moments and decisive battles of the anti-American resistance; (2) Life During War, showcasing the experiences of people in both the North and South during the conflict; (3) The Day of Liberation, featuring historical moments from April 30, 1975, when troops entered Saigon; (4) 50 Years of National Unification, reflecting on the country’s development since 1975; and (5) Book Introductions, featuring works like "Vision from History: Completing Vietnamese Values in the New Era" and "April 30, 1975 - 50 Years Looking Back."
This exhibition not only serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made during the war but also aims to inspire a sense of patriotism and national pride among students and the community. GS.TS Hoàng Anh Tuấn, the university's president, emphasized the importance of April 30, 1975, as a shining milestone in Vietnam's history. He noted that after more than two decades of resilient struggle, the victory of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign marked the end of the American war and the reunification of the country.
The exhibition runs from April 22 to April 24, 2024, in the lobby of building E, and from April 25 to April 29, 2025, in the courtyard of building D at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, encouraging extensive visits from faculty, students, and the public.
In conjunction with the exhibition, a seminar was held at the university's eighth-floor auditorium, introducing the two featured books. The first, "Vision from History: Completing Vietnamese Values in the New Era," authored by Lieutenant General Dr. Nguyễn Văn Hưởng, a former member of the Central Party Committee and Deputy Minister of Public Security, offers a comprehensive framework for developing Vietnam’s values in the new era.
Lieutenant General Hưởng shared insights from his book, proposing a systematic approach to help Vietnam solidify its values and advance into the future with strong foundations. He articulated that the success of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign not only holds national significance but also resonates internationally, symbolizing the spirit of independence and resilience of oppressed nations globally.
The second book, "April 30, 1975 - 50 Years Looking Back," written by architect Nguyễn Hữu Thái, recounts the critical moment when Dương Văn Minh announced the surrender to the liberation army. This work provides valuable documentation of the events at the Independence Palace on that historic day, shedding light on the struggles and sacrifices endured during the war.
During the seminar, GS.TS.NGND Nguyễn Quang Ngọc, Vice President of the Vietnam Historical Science Association and former head of the Faculty of History, coordinated discussions around the profound implications of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign. He articulated that the victory not only marked the end of prolonged U.S. intervention in Vietnam but also significantly altered the global political landscape, affirming that even a small nation can triumph when united in the fight for independence.
Students and faculty expressed their deep emotions while interacting with the authors, reflecting on the historical narratives shared during the discussions. The event culminated in a group photo session with the authors, reinforcing the connection between past and present generations.
The University of Social Sciences and Humanities, as a leading center for social sciences and humanities research and education in Vietnam, remains committed to its mission of providing high-quality human resources and disseminating knowledge that supports national development and international integration. The exhibition and seminar represent concrete actions by the university to foster a spirit of development and national pride among its students.
As the country prepares to celebrate this significant anniversary, the university's efforts aim to instill a sense of hope and motivation in its students, encouraging them to contribute actively to the nation’s future. The legacy of April 30 continues to inspire, reminding all Vietnamese of their shared history and the enduring values of peace, independence, and unity.
