From Mozambique to Vietnam: A journey to wisdom

A young Mozambican student, Oraiden Manuel Sabonete, is making waves with a rich tapestry of languages and a deep-seated passion for cultural immersion after nearly five years studying in Hanoi.

Sabonete, 24, is pursuing a degree in electrical engineering at the Hanoi University of Science and Technology.

Fluent in Shona, Portuguese, English and Vietnamese, Sabonete’s story is a vivid example of how embracing a new culture can profoundly shape one's academic and personal growth.

His decision to move from Mozambique to this Southeast Asian country was driven by a fascination with its history and culture, as well as a desire to face the unique challenge of studying in Vietnamese.

This immersion is not just academic, but extends into every facet of his daily life, enriching his experience in ways he had not anticipated.

His choice to study electrical engineering was carefully considered.

“I find it fascinating how understanding one area can lead to knowledge in related fields. Additionally, it is a major that is essential for the development of Mozambique, and I want to contribute to my country's progress,” said Sabonete.

This commitment is reflected in his dedication to his studies and his future career ambitions.

Convincing his family to support his decision required a strategic approach and he explained the unique opportunities that studying in Vietnam would offer, both in terms of education and personal growth.

“Vietnam was an excellent choice, providing a strong educational foundation and the chance to gain a global perspective, which is crucial in today's interconnected world,” he said.

His ability to articulate these benefits reflects his thoughtful consideration of the broader implications of his move.

Upon arriving in Vietnam, Sabonete faced the inevitable challenges of adjusting to a new language and culture.

“The biggest challenge was the language barrier, but the friendliness and willingness of the Vietnamese people to help made it easier to adapt," he recalled.

“Over time, I improved my language skills, which allowed me to fully integrate into the academic and social life here," Sabonete said.

“The strong sense of community and the deep respect for traditions in Vietnam were more profound than I had imagined. It’s fascinating to see how these values permeate every aspect of life here.

“I’ve learned the importance of resilience and optimism. The Vietnamese people face challenges with a positive attitude and a strong sense of community, which are values I strive to incorporate into my own life."

One memorable incident involved a mix-up where he accidentally described someone’s cooking.

This humorous mistake taught him important lessons about patience and the role of humour in overcoming intercultural misunderstandings.

“There was a time when I wanted to compliment someone's cooking by saying ngon (delicious) but accidentally pronounced ngoc (silly) instead. The person looked puzzled and I quickly realized my mistake,” he said.

“This incident taught me the importance of being patient and open-minded in intercultural communication, as misunderstandings are natural but can always be resolved with a good sense of humor and empathy.”

Sabonete took part in the "Essay Contest on Protecting the Communist Party of Vietnam’s Ideological Foundation" held in Hanoi by the city's Party Committee last year.

Despite the challenge of articulating complex ideas in Vietnamese, the experience was immensely rewarding.

“My passion for history and politics inspired me to participate in the contest. The biggest challenge was ensuring that my ideas were accurately conveyed in Vietnamese, but the process greatly improved my language skills and deepened my understanding of Vietnam’s ideological foundations, he said.

“I feel incredibly honoured and grateful. These awards validate the hard work and dedication I have put into my studies and activities in Vietnam.”

A typical day for Sabonete includes attending lectures, studying at the library and practicing Vietnamese.

He observes that the educational environment in Vietnam is more rigorous and disciplined compared to his home country’s system.

“The collaborative learning environment here has been beneficial in developing my teamwork and communication skills,” he said.

This approach has been instrumental in preparing him for a successful career in engineering.

In his leisure time, Sabonete enjoys exploring Hanoi, savouring local dishes and interacting with the community.

Bun cha (rice noodle with grilled pork), in particular, has left his strong impression due to its unique flavours and bustling street setting.

“It’s a dish that truly represents the vibrancy of Vietnamese cuisine,” he said.

Due to the distance, his family and friends struggled to stay informed about Vietnam.

To bridge this gap, Sabonete shares his personal experiences, highlights Vietnam's rich history and cultural diversity.

“I emphasize the country's rich history, cultural diversity and the warmth of its people. Additionally, I share the image of Vietnam on my social media to help others see the beauty and uniqueness of the country.”

Looking ahead, Sabonete plans to gain professional experience in Vietnam before returning to Mozambique.

“I hope to contribute to Mozambique’s development, particularly in engineering and technology,” he said.

His journey exemplifies the profound impact of studying abroad and the transformative potential of embracing new cultures.

Sabonete's experience in Vietnam highlights the enriching potential of cross-cultural education and the significant role of cultural immersion in personal and professional development.

His dedication to his studies and his integration into Vietnamese society are a testament to the value of global education in shaping future leaders.