Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of March, the Student Square at Thuy Loi University was transformed into a grand feast of colors and flavors on the morning of March 6. Among the 14 talented competing teams, the lecturers from the Center for International Training (SIE) left an unforgettable impression with their explosive enthusiasm and a traditional dish: fried sesame balls (Bánh rán)—a dish that encapsulates the spirit of solidarity and the spreading of love.
Starting as early as 6:30 AM, the atmosphere at the Center for International Training’s kitchen station became incredibly lively. Casting aside their usual academic gravity, the SIE lecturers joined the fray with eager spirits and radiant smiles. This passion was evident in their meticulous preparation of ingredients and their seamless coordination, turning the cooking competition into a true festival of joy and sharing.
Amidst a wide variety of dishes such as pillow cake (bánh gối) and shrimp cake (bánh tôm), the team from the Center for International Training chose the Fried Sesame Ball as their centerpiece. This was more than just a dish; it was a meaningful message the teachers wished to convey.
The ingredients that created these golden, crispy balls were a harmonious blend of the spirit of Solidarity and the fragrant aroma of Outreach. The round shape of the cake symbolizes the completeness and the warm affection that the teachers always bestow upon their colleagues and students. Witnessing the dedication of the entire faculty, Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet—Vice President of the University—offered warm praise. He emphasized that throughout the school’s 67-year journey of development, the silent contributions of female teachers have been indispensable. With a touch of humor, he used the phrase “hết nước chấm” (top-notch) to laud the quality of the food and the wonderful spirit of solidarity at the festival.
The simple yet meaningful fried sesame balls from the Center for International Training served as a heartfelt gift to women on International Women’s Day, March 8. These fragrant, nutty cakes carry wishes for all women to remain beautiful and happy, continuing to be the flowers that bring fragrance to life.