From 6–9 July 2026, students from the Faculty of Technology, majoring in Food Technology at Dong Nai Technology University (DNTU), participated in the Virtual Short Program in Food Technology 2026, themed "Sweet Innovation: Science and Technology of Confectionery."

The program was organized under the Passage to ASEAN (P2A) network through the collaboration of BINUS University (Indonesia), Davao del Norte State College (Philippines), and Dong Nai Technology University (Vietnam). It provided an international learning platform that connected students across ASEAN through academic exchange and cross-cultural collaboration.

Throughout the four-day program, DNTU students attended expert-led lectures, participated in group discussions, and worked alongside peers from Indonesia and the Philippines to develop innovative confectionery product concepts based on modern food science and technology. The program enabled participants to explore emerging trends in the confectionery industry while gaining insights into innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of future markets.

Beyond strengthening their academic knowledge, DNTU students demonstrated initiative, creativity, and adaptability while working in an international environment. Communicating, discussing, and presenting ideas in English with teammates from different countries significantly enhanced their English proficiency, intercultural communication skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities—essential competencies for succeeding in today's globalized world.

Throughout the program, students were guided by an experienced team of mentors from the partner universities:

• Dr. agr. Tina Nurkhoeriyati, S.TP., M.Sc. – BINUS University (Group 1)

• Dr. Nguyen Thanh Cong – Dong Nai Technology University (Group 2)

• Rahmat Widianto, S.TP., M.Sc. – BINUS University (Group 3)

• Liezel T. Esprela, Ph.D. – Davao del Norte State College (Group 4)

• Dr. Eng. Steven Suryoprabowo, S.TP., M.Eng. – BINUS University (Group 5)

With the dedicated guidance of their mentors, students successfully refined their product concepts while gaining valuable experience in international teamwork through continuous discussion, constructive feedback, and collaboration with peers from across ASEAN.

The knowledge, practical experience, and intercultural competencies acquired during the program will serve as valuable assets, empowering DNTU students to pursue their academic, research, and professional aspirations with greater confidence in the global arena.

Let's look back at some memorable moments of DNTU students during the Virtual Short Program in Food Technology 2026!