Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics Program

Graduation Day Highlights Achievements of Intake 21

The morning commenced with a joyous Graduation Ceremony honoring 34 students from Intake 21. The event celebrated the graduates’ academic achievements and was attended by distinguished guests, including Ms. Rebecca Ball, Deputy Consul-General for Commercial of the Australian Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lisa Lim, Dean International for the Faculty of Humanities, and Prof. Dr. Rhonda Oliver from the School of Education, Curtin University; and Prof. Dr. Shawn Loewen, Michigan University, U.S.A.

In her keynote address, Ms. Rebecca Ball emphasized the program’s core values—integrity, excellence, inclusivity, innovation, and respect for diversity—and urged graduates to apply their skills to make a positive impact. SEAMEO RETRAC Director, Ms. Duong encouraged the graduates to embrace lifelong learning and adapt to the dynamic field of Applied Linguistics.

Ms. Rebecca Ball, Deputy Consul-General for Commercial of the Australian Consulate-General in HCMC

“You have achieved much, but there is always more to learn, more ways to grow, and more opportunities to contribute” Ms. Le Thi Thuy Duong, SEAMEO RETRAC’s Director

Research Forum: Exploring Emerging Trends in TESOL Research

In the afternoon, SEAMEO RETRAC and Curtin University co-hosted a Research Forum that drew 30 participants, including alumni, students, and English language teachers, to explore best practices and advancements in TESOL research. The forum featured a keynote speech by Prof. Rhonda Oliver titled “Exploring Emerging Trends in TESOL Research,” which provided valuable insights into cutting-edge developments in the field. Attendees also participated in a workshop, Beyond Words: Harnessing AI and Human Intellectual Capacity in TESOL Research Writing, led by an alumnus from the 18th intake. The interactive discussions fostered idea exchange, refined research strategies, and supported professional growth.

Alumni Reception: Building Connections and Community

The day’s celebrations concluded with an Alumni Reception, uniting program lecturers and 50 alumni from across Vietnam. The event provided a platform for sharing personal experiences, and professional insights while reinforcing a sense of community among alumni.

This gathering also allowed Curtin University and SEAMEO RETRAC to hear first-hand alumni feedback and success stories. It underscored a commitment to maintaining an active and engaged academic community dedicated to lifelong learning and the growth of the program’s institutions and individuals. The day’s events marked a significant milestone for the graduates, reaffirming the program’s role in shaping the next generation of educators and researchers in applied linguistics and TESOL.