Global stage, local impact: RMIT Vietnam students at the world’s largest Smart City Expo

Di, along with Linh Le and Khue Khuu, earned their places in a recent study tour to attend the Smart City Expo World Congress 2024, the world’s most prominent event for city and urban innovation. This unique opportunity, part of RMIT’s Global Citizenship Leadership Program, marked a significant milestone as the first inclusion of students from RMIT Vietnam. Selected from a competitive pool of over 230 applicants for the funded opportunity, the trio joined a group of ten students to represent RMIT and explore groundbreaking ideas from leading global experts.

A city that blends tradition and innovation

Landing in Barcelona, the students found themselves in a city where tradition and modernity coexist in harmony. With its historic architecture, vibrant culture, and forward-thinking urban solutions, Barcelona became an inspiring classroom.

For Linh, this trip was a chance to embrace new challenges and grow: “Upon arrival, I was hesitant to step out of my comfort zone and engage with others. But I quickly learned that the act of putting yourself out there is the first step toward building something truly valuable [...]. I came home with a deeper understanding of how to be present in the moment, open, and connected with others.”

Beyond the sessions and workshops, the students explored iconic landmarks such as La Sagrada Família and Casa Mila, while also building meaningful connections with peers from around the world.

“These unexpected friendships taught me the value of trusting in the unknown and embracing new connections with an open heart,” Khue reflected. “Together, we explored Barcelona, learned collaboratively, and found joy in our shared experiences.”

Learning from global leaders in urban innovation

The centrepiece of the trip was the Smart City Expo World Congress, a global gathering featuring over 600 expert speakers and 1,450 exhibitors. With topics ranging from enabling technologies to sustainable mobility and the blue economy, the Expo showcased the latest advancements driving sustainable cities.

For Khue, these discussions offered a new perspective on what it means to build a smart city: “Exploring Barcelona’s blend of tradition and modernity reshaped my understanding of the term ‘smart city.’ Heritage and technology can work together to drive impactful changes. The Expo broadened my perspectives on global citizenship and innovation.”

The students also participated in the Emerging Leaders Workshop, hosted by RMIT Europe and Common Purpose. This session provided them with tools to develop their leadership skills, including pitching, cultural awareness, and cross-cultural collaboration.

“We engaged in lessons that emphasised the importance of collaboration,” Di said. “It was inspiring to see how diverse perspectives could come together to create innovative solutions.”

Lessons for Vietnam's urban future

A highlight of the tour was a visit to Barcelona’s renowned 22@ Innovation District, a neighbourhood transformed from an industrial zone into a hub for startups, research centres, and creative industries. The district demonstrated how cities can integrate historical preservation with forward-looking urban development.

For Linh, this approach resonated deeply: “Innovation doesn’t have to erase the past. Barcelona has shown that you can build on your history while creating spaces that meet the needs of the future. This is something Vietnam can learn from.”

Returning to Vietnam, the students brought back valuable lessons alongside their memories. Themes like urban regeneration, community engagement, and sustainable innovation provided a lens for addressing Vietnam’s challenges, such as rapid urbanisation and environmental sustainability.

“The city’s blend of history, innovation, and community taught me lessons I never anticipated,” Di reflected. “I’m inspired to think about how these ideas could shape urban development in Vietnam.”

Inspiring the next generation of changemakers

The participation of Di, Linh, and Khue in the Smart City Expo World Congress reflects RMIT Vietnam’s commitment to equipping students with global insights and leadership skills. Through the Global Citizenship Leadership Program, the university is empowering students to think globally, act locally, and lead in addressing the challenges of tomorrow.

“The act of putting yourself out there is the first step toward building something truly valuable,” Linh concluded. “It’s through embracing the unknown that we grow the most.”

From the historic streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the dynamic innovation hubs of Barcelona, the journey of these three students highlights the transformative power of global education. Their experience serves as a source of inspiration for their peers, demonstrating the impact of curiosity, collaboration, and ambition in shaping the future of cities.

Story by: Thao Pham.

With input and photos by Di Truong, Linh Le, and Khue Khuu.

Global stage, local impact: RMIT Vietnam students at the world’s largest Smart City Expo